‘No Kings’ protest planned for Charlotte this weekend. Will streets be closed?

Cities around the country are gearing up for protests this weekend over President Trump’s military parade in D.C. and what his administration has done so far in its first few months.

The parade is set for Saturday, June 14, which marks 250 years since the U.S. military was founded — and it also happens to be the president’s birthday. The timing has sparked backlash from some people, who’ve likened it to what you’d see in a dictatorship or monarchy — which is exactly what the protest movement’s name, “No Kings,” hints at.

“No Kings is a nationwide day of defiance,” the organizers write on their website. “From city blocks to small towns, from courthouse steps to community parks, we’re taking action to reject authoritarianism — and show the world what democracy really looks like.”

Here’s what to know about No Kings protests in the Charlotte area.

Charlotte No Kings protest

Charlotte’s protest will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at First Ward Park, 301 E. 7th St.

Several other protests will take place in the Charlotte area, including Waxhaw, Monroe and Rock Hill, The Charlotte Observer previously reported. To see the full list, visit nokings.org.

Protest safety at No Kings

According to the organizers, the movement is committed to nonviolence, and all participants are expected to remain peaceful, follow the law and help de-escalate any tensions.

Attendees are also urged not to bring weapons to the demonstrations.

The Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department also sent out a news alert Thursday, June 12 assuring residents that officers will be on hand in case of an emergency.

“We’re committed to protecting everyone’s right to peacefully gather and encourage everyone coming to uptown to enjoy the city responsibly,” the alert said. “Stay hydrated, be aware of your surroundings and remember to lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.”

Will there be any street closures?

Possibly. CMPD’s Public Affairs Division will keep the public informed about road closures, the department said in its alert.

The City of Charlotte did not respond to a request from The Charlotte Observer for a road closure schedule by publication.

You can find a map with street closures on the city of Charlotte’s website.

This story was originally published June 13, 2025 at 4:08 PM.

Evan Moore

The Charlotte Observer

Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.