As millions of Americans protested at “No Kings” rallies across the country, onlookers gathered in Washington on the president’s birthday for a muted celebration.

Sen. Rand Paul criticized the June 14 military parade, arguing that it was too expensive and “glorified” weapons.

Fox News Digital spoke to attendees of the D.C. military parade, some who had traveled hundreds of miles to participate, about why they had come to the nation’s capital for the event.

Donald Trump threw a military parade in honor of the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary on Saturday, June 14 (a date that happens to be the president’s birthday) to the tune of $25 to $45 million. But unfortunately for Trump, photos and videos from the big day show sparse attendance and a lack of organization from top to bottom.

At the beginning of the parade route, a sparse and quiet crowd greeted the U.S. troops dressed in uniforms from the Revolutionary War to modern day. A few protestors holding “NO KINGS” signs aloft mingled with patriotic revelers as a light drizzle began shortly after the start of the event.

MSNBC hosts Ali Velshi and Chris Hayes noted a difference in the atmosphere at the Army's 250th celebration in Washington, D.C., compared to President Trump's rallies.

The parade, which was put on to celebrate the Army’s 250th anniversary and Trump’s 79th birthday, was reported to cost up to $45 million and drew thinner crowds than anticipated, as simultaneous “No Kings” protests took place in all 50 states.

Law enforcement officials reported no arrests from the celebration in D.C. that drew several thousand parade watchers, with some demonstrators protesting against the show of military strength.

Senator John Fetterman, D-Pa., has voiced support for President Donald Trump ’s military parade, saying Americans should support it regardless of politics.

"No Kings" marches in all 50 states were reminiscent of some of America's biggest debates, from Vietnam to civil rights.