Veterans Day is observed nationally on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. Major national ceremonies, historic parades, and community events are taking place across the country to honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
National Ceremonies & Memorials
- The National Veterans Day Ceremony (Arlington, VA): Held at 11:00 AM, this is the nation's premier official observance. It commences with a presidential wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, followed by a formal parade of colors and patriotic remarks inside the Memorial Amphitheater.
- Location: Arlington National Cemetery.
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial Observance (Washington, D.C.): Beginning at 1:00 PM, this annual ceremony pays tribute to all who served during the Vietnam War, featuring keynote speakers, a color guard, and the laying of wreaths at the base of the wall.
- Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Virtual Waves: For those unable to travel, the Arlington National Cemetery livestream allows the public to view the hourly changing of the guard and official processions remotely.
Historic Major Parades
- America's Parade (New York City, NY): The largest Veterans Day event in the nation features over 20,000 participants, including marching bands, military units, veterans' organizations, and floats.
- Route: Marches up Fifth Avenue, kicking off around 11:00 AM following a traditional opening ceremony at Madison Square Park.
- Birmingham Veterans Day Parade (Birmingham, AL): Home to the nation's oldest civic Veterans Day celebration (founded in 1947), this massive downtown parade draws thousands of spectators to honor regional and national service members.
- San Diego Veterans Day Parade (San Diego, CA): Taking place along the iconic Embarcadero waterfront near the USS Midway Museum, this West Coast staple highlights active-duty military personnel, historic aircraft flyovers, and naval heritages.
Destination Festivals & Week-Long Celebrations
- Branson Veterans Homecoming Week (Branson, MO): Running the entire week leading up to November 11, Branson hosts America's largest multi-day veterans gathering. It includes standard military reunions, themed theatrical performances, a dedicated veterans village, and an annual parade through the historic downtown district.
- National Veterans Day Run Series: Various major metropolitan parks across the U.S. host 5K and 10K run/walk events on or around November 11 to raise financial support for wounded veterans and local mental health resources.
