WASHINGTON -- Thousands, including President George W. Bush, wished 81-year-old Pope Benedict XVI a happy birthday at the White House on Wednesday.

The pope arrived in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday. The visit marks the first papal visit to the White House in 29 years.

After a private visit with the president on Wednesday, Pope Benedict waved to supporters while riding in the "pope mobile" on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Some protesters stood across the street from the White House. One demonstrator even dressed as the pope. There were far more supporters than protesters on hand though. One of them was State Representative Mike Turzai.

Turzai was back at the White House on Wednesday night for a dinner in the Pope's honor. The pontiff did not attend though as he had a meeting with the U.S. Bishops, including Bishop David Zubick of Pittsburgh.