Are you wondering what time is the No Kings protest? You’re not alone. Across the United States, thousands of rallies are scheduled for Saturday, October 18, 2025, in a coordinated wave of demonstrations under the “No Kings” banner. The exact start times differ by city, but organizers expect many of the larger gatherings to begin between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. local time.
Understanding the No Kings Movement
The No Kings protest movement reflects widespread concerns about executive power, democratic norms, and civic rights. Participants are united by one message: no monarchs, no kings, no unchecked rulers.
This edition of the protests builds on earlier mobilizations. More than 2,600 events are planned in all 50 states, underscoring the scale of this effort. Organizers from groups such as Indivisible, American Civil Liberties Union and the coalition known as the “50–50–1 Movement” are declaring the October 18 date a national moment of civic power.
What Time You Should Arrive
Because the start times vary depending on location and permit requirements, there is no single “national” hour. That said, the following best-practice approach will help you show up on time:
- Expect many rallies to kick off between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in your local time zone.
- In some cities, smaller gatherings may begin earlier (as early as 9 a.m.) or later (mid-afternoon).
- Arrive 30 to 45 minutes ahead of the listed time — this ensures you’re present for opening remarks and don’t miss the start of the march or rally.
Examples of Known Start Times by City
Here’s a snapshot of how start times differ across major U.S. cities:
| City | Local Start Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | ~2:00 p.m. ET | Bryant Park gathering, march planned. |
| Los Angeles | ~10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. PT | Morning rally downtown. |
| Pittsburgh | ~12:30 p.m. ET | City-County Building start point. |
These examples show that while many start around midday, local variation is strong — always verify your city’s listing.
How to Check Your Local Time & Location
To find the exact start time and rally point in your area:
- Visit the official No Kings website or the local event page.
- Enter your city or ZIP code in the event locator.
- Note the start time, meeting spot, and any instructions (dress code, sign guidelines, etc.).
- Plan your arrival time accordingly and mark your calendar.
For smaller towns and suburbs, the start time may skew later or be listed as “afternoon” rather than an exact hour.
Why Timing Is Key for This Protest
The organizers of the No Kings demonstration have carefully chosen timing to maximize impact and visibility:
- Weekend scheduling allows participation without weekday work or school conflicts.
- A mid-morning to early afternoon timeframe ensures daylight coverage by media and safe commuting.
- Simultaneous protests in all 50 states create a rolling wave effect, reinforcing unity and scale.
What Happens When the Rally Starts?
Typical No Kings rallies begin with the following pattern:
- Opening remarks: Local organizers, speakers or invited community figures.
- March or march-start: Many protests transition into a march along a pre-approved route.
- Main rally: Speeches, chants, music or performance art tied to protest themes.
- Conclusion: Return to the starting point or disperse under monitorised conditions.
Most rallies are planned for 2–4 hours; some may end earlier or continue into late afternoon depending on local logistics.
Safety, Timing & Participation Tips
If you are attending a local protest and wondering what time is the No Kings protest in your area, here are some helpful tips:
- Arrive early: 30–45 minutes before the listed start time gives you time to settle.
- Bring essentials: Water, weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes.
- Check transportation: Some cities will restrict roads — plan your route accordingly.
- Know the local schedule: If the start time says “11 a.m.” but it’s your first rally, aim for “10:30 a.m.” just to be safe.
- Stay informed: Organisers may update times or start-locations based on weather or permit changes.
What Time Are Smaller Town & Suburban Rallies?
Not all protests will align with large-city schedules. In suburbs and smaller towns:
- Some may begin as early as 9 a.m., especially if organizers expect shorter events.
- Others may start in the late afternoon (3 p.m.–5 p.m.) for more informal gatherings.
- Always check your local event listing, as generic “afternoon rally” notes may hide a specific time.
Key Takeaway: Be Local-Time Ready
So when you ask “what time is the No Kings protest?” the answer depends on your location — but arriving sometime between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. (local time) is a strong rule of thumb.
Arrive early, check your city’s listing, and prepare for an experience of collective action.
Will you be participating in your local rally on October 18? Share your city and what time you plan to arrive — and help others join the movement.