Veterans Day is celebrated to honor all individuals who have served honorably in the United States military, during both wartime and peacetime. Unlike Memorial Day, which specifically remembers those who died in the line of duty, Veterans Day focuses on thanking and recognizing all living veterans for their sacrifice, commitment, and service to the country.
Why We Celebrate on November 11th
The holiday is permanently fixed on November 11th because it marks the historical conclusion of World War I. An armistice between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. Originally called "Armistice Day" when it became a federal holiday in 1938, it was officially renamed Veterans Day in 1954 under President Dwight D. Eisenhower to expand its purpose to honor American veterans of all wars.
National Events Planned for 2026
In 2026, Veterans Day falls on Wednesday, November 11. Major national events and regional commemorations scheduled across the country include:
- National Veterans Day Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery: Held on November 11, 2026, starting at 11:00 a.m. at the Memorial Amphitheater in Arlington, Virginia. It commences with a historic wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns.
- The National Veterans Parade (Washington, D.C.): The nation's capital kicks off celebrations early on Sunday, November 8, 2026, with a massive procession down Constitution Avenue. A marching-band field show is also slated for November 7 on the National Mall.
- National Veterans Memorial Museum (Columbus, OH): Hosting a national ceremony on November 11 at 11:00 a.m. focused on celebrating 250 years of Veterans serving the nation and the 25th anniversary of 9/11. They are also hosting a public flag dedication campaign on their lawn.
- 79th National Veterans Day Parade (Birmingham, AL): Renowned as the home of the very first National Veterans Day celebration, Birmingham is hosting its historic 79th consecutive parade on November 11, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. downtown.
- Philadelphia Veterans Parade & Festival: Stepping off at noon on Sunday, November 8, 2026, along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and concluding with a festival at Eakins Oval.
- Centennial Veterans Day Weekend at the National WWI Museum and Memorial: Running from Friday, November 6 through Monday, November 9, 2026, featuring special centennial observations and free admission for veterans.
