Getty Images/Alex Wong
Marchers hold a giant U.S. flag as they participate in the National Independence Day Parade July 4, 2019 in Washington, DC.
- Thousands braved the pouring rain to arrive in downtown DC for Independence Day celebrations.
- The all-day "Salute to America" event prompted controversy, due to President Donald Trump's insistence on a show of military might and a speech in the evening.
- A downpour across the city prompted questions over whether the evening fireworks - as well as Trump's plan to include military flyovers - would still go forward.
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Thousands of people, including both supporters and opponents of President Donald Trump, turned up for Independence Day celebrations in downtown Washington, DC.
The event was set to include a show of military might, including tanks, armored vehicles, and military plane flyovers. Trump himself was set to speak to the crowds Thursday evening.
The event, titled "A Salute to America," drew both praise and heavy condemnation in advance. Some spectators were excited to see the military flaunt its equipment and Trump give a speech, while others accused the president of co-opting what was supposed to be a holiday celebrating America's history and national unity.
Here's how the afternoon began: