Over 300 people gathered at Downtown Park on Saturday afternoon as part of the nationwide “No Kings” protest movement. The Southern Pines Fire Department estimated the crowd size, making it one of the larger demonstrations in the area in recent months. The event mirrored demonstrations taking place across the country this weekend.

Organizers began the event with several scheduled speakers who addressed concerns about growing authoritarianism and what they described as an erosion of democratic values. Afterward, the microphone was opened to attendees who wished to share their own messages.

Throughout the demonstration, a number of vehicles circled the park, revving engines and blasting loud music in an apparent attempt to disrupt the event and drown out the speakers. Despite the noise, the protest continued peacefully.

The timing of the protest coincides with significant national events. In Washington, D.C., the U.S. Army is marking its 250th anniversary with a full day of celebration, including military demonstrations, equipment displays, food trucks, live music, and a grand parade along Constitution Avenue.

Saturday also marks President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. Earlier in the week, on Tuesday, Trump kicked off the military-themed programming with a visit to Fort Bragg.

In light of the D.C. festivities, ‘No Kings’ organizers announced they would not hold a demonstration in the capital this year. Instead, the movement shifted its flagship protest to Pennsylvania, aiming to draw a “clear contrast” between the group’s message and the high-profile military celebrations in the nation’s capital.

Saturday’s event in downtown Southern Pines began around 3 p.m. and lasted around two hours.