Veterans Day 2025: What’s Happening on Tuesday, November 11

Bassyonni

ago 3 hours

Veterans Day 2025

With Veterans Day 2025 falling on Tuesday, November 11, communities across the United States are preparing ceremonies, parades, and moments of silence to honor those who served. From the wreath-laying at Arlington to hometown parades and museum programs, the day blends national tradition with local tributes. Here’s a concise guide to schedules, openings and closures, and ways to participate.

Veterans Day 2025 at a glance

Veterans Day marks the anniversary of the World War I armistice and honors all U.S. military veterans. Observances traditionally center at 11:00 a.m. local time, echoing the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.” The capstone national event occurs at Arlington National Cemetery with a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and a ceremony in the Memorial Amphitheater. Attendance is free and first-come, with a musical prelude typically beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Key national times (ET, unless noted)

9:00 a.m. — World War II Memorial observance, Washington, D.C.
10:30 a.m. — Prelude concert, Arlington National Cemetery
11:00 a.m. — Wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier; national ceremony follows

What’s open and what’s closed on November 11

Veterans Day is a federal holiday, which means certain services adjust hours or pause operations.

Open

U.S. stock market: NYSE and Nasdaq operate on normal trading hours.
Most retail and groceries: Many stores keep standard schedules; check local postings for adjustments.

Closed / adjusted

Federal offices: Closed.
USPS: No regular mail delivery; post office counters closed.
Banks: Most branch lobbies closed; ATMs and mobile apps available.
U.S. bond market: Closed for the holiday.
Schools, libraries, local government: Varies by district and city—many observe the holiday; confirm locally.
Transit and parking: Holiday or Sunday schedules may apply in some cities.

Parades and ceremonies across the country

Cities will host a full slate of morning and midday events. While times vary, expect color guards, veterans’ organizations, ROTC units, marching bands, and moments of remembrance.

Sample city schedules (local times; subject to change)

Washington, D.C. — Veterans weekend events culminate with the National Veterans Day observances on Nov. 11 (see national times above).
San Francisco Bay Area (CA) — Parades in multiple cities, interfaith memorials, museum open houses, and shipboard commemorations.
Palm Beach & Treasure Coast (FL) — Morning ceremonies at local veterans memorials and downtown parade routes.
Auburn (WA) — One of the Northwest’s largest Veterans Day parades, with drill teams and classic military vehicles.
Citrus Heights (CA) — 11:00 a.m. ceremony at Sylvan Cemetery honoring local service members.

Tip: If you plan to attend a ceremony at a national memorial or cemetery, arrive early for security screening and seating; bring water and check weather advisories.

Discounts, meals, and museum access

Dozens of national and regional businesses run Veterans Day promotions for veterans and active-duty personnel—often extending to Guard and Reserve members and, in some cases, spouses. Expect:

Complimentary or discounted meals at casual restaurants, diners, and coffee shops (typically dine-in only, limited menus, and time windows).
Retail discounts on apparel, hardware, and home goods.
Attraction offers at museums, zoos, and historical sites, sometimes including free admission for a guest.

Always bring a valid form of military identification (e.g., VIC, CAC, driver’s license with veteran designation). Fine print matters: offers often exclude delivery, require in-person redemption, and may not combine with other discounts.

Ways to honor and participate

Whether you’re near a national memorial or staying local, here are meaningful, low-effort ways to engage:

Attend a ceremony: Even small-town gatherings feature moving tributes and local Gold Star families.
Observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m.: Pause for two minutes to reflect on service and sacrifice.
Visit a memorial or cemetery: Leave a small flag or flower (check site rules).
Support veteran-led organizations: Donate, volunteer, or share their resources with your network.
Hire or mentor: If you’re an employer or community leader, consider veteran talent pipelines, skill-translation workshops, or mentorship programs.

Safety, access, and travel notes

Large events can draw significant crowds. Plan for road closures near parade routes and allow extra time for public transit. Many ceremonies are outdoors; dress for November weather and consider accessibility needs—some sites provide designated seating areas for elderly veterans and people with disabilities.

Looking ahead

Beyond November 11, many communities maintain year-round programs for veterans’ wellness, employment, and education. If the holiday inspires you, mark calendars for regional stand-downs, service days, and winter ceremonies that continue the spirit of appreciation. Honoring service does not end after the last parade—support and recognition remain vital every day of the year.