There will be many activities and special events planned for Veterans Day. Here are some ways to celebrate Veterans Day nationwide, and the days leading up to the annual holiday.
National Veterans Day Ceremony
The annual ceremony takes place on November 11 at Arlington National Cemetery. It’s often live-streamed so people can watch from anywhere.
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
This library in Simi Valley, California, hosts a Veterans Day celebration with an honor guard, live music, and a Civil War encampment.
Local events
Many cities and communities organize parades and ceremonies to honor veterans. You can also check out local schools and organizations that host virtual events like webinars, panel discussions, and online tributes.
Denny’s
On November 11, 2024, veterans and active-duty military personnel can get a free Original Grand Slam at Denny’s from 5 AM–12 PM with valid military ID or DD214.
View more Veterans Day discounts and free offers here.
Here are some other ways to celebrate Veterans Day:
Visit a local veterans memorial or cemetery
Thank a veteran you know
Volunteer with organizations that support veterans
Donate to charities that help veterans and their families
Fly the U.S. flag
Visit the National Veterans Memorial Museum
This Veterans Day, we salute each and every military Veteran for their service to our country. The Museum has a full slate of events to honor and celebrate our Veterans leading up to our ceremony on Monday morning. It starts with celebrating the United States Marine Corps birthday. From Friday, November 8 through Veterans Day, November 11, admission is just $5 per person. As always, Veterans and active duty are always free. As you will see, most of our events this week are free but do require registration. Come join us and be inspired as we say a collective “Thank You” to our Veterans!
$5 admission days: November 8th – 11th
Veterans Day Weekend Events:
Nov. 8 | 11 a.m
Vets Town Hall
The NVMM and Vets Town Hall, co-founded by Sebastian Junger, invite community members to an inspiring Vets Town Hall event. Veterans of any era who served in any capacity are invited to stand before their community and speak for up to ten minutes about what it was like to serve their country. This event is non-political, and all perspectives are valued. Attendees will simply listen and learn about what it was like to serve our country. The event is free, and we are looking for your participation. If you are a Veteran interested in speaking, please contact Meagan McGowan at mm******@na*********.org.
Nov. 8-10
USMC Birthday
The U.S. Marine Corps turns 249 on November 10! To celebrate, we’re offering $5 admission Friday through Monday. Enjoy Marine Corp themed education activities throughout the museum.
Nov. 9 | 10 a.m. – Noon
Be My Neighbor Day
Spread Kindness with Daniel Tiger! Join us on Saturday, November 9, as we host WOSU’s Daniel Tiger’s Be My Neighbor Day Celebration. Experience meaningful service-learning opportunities focused around being a friendly neighbor, as well as a meet-and-greet with Daniel Tiger and Katarina Kittycat. Museum activities include creating kindness cards, assembling care packages, coloring stations and more. Families are encouraged, although not required, to donate hygiene products (NEW toothbrushes and travel-size toothpaste, deodorant, bar soap, shaving cream). The event is free, but advance registration is required. Registration will be limited and on a first come, first serve basis.
Nov. 9 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Art of Valor – Veterans Painting Event
On Saturday, November 9, we are inviting 25 Veterans to participate in a special painting workshop partnered with The Patriot Art Foundation happening simultaneously at the NVMM, the National Museum of the U.S. Army, and the USS Yorktown. The event will take place from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. EST, with live look-ins on Facebook and YouTube between noon – 2 p.m. EST. This is a free event, and lunch is provided for our Veterans. Renowned artist, Mary Whyte, will also be demonstrating watercolor painting with a group of Veterans, while art teachers will be here in Columbus and in Virginia leading the Veterans through a painting/sketching session. Space is limited to the first 25 Veterans who register, get your spot today.
Nov. 10 | 9 a.m.
CHAD 1000
Celebrate those in our armed forces through the rigors of an intense workout at the Museum. On Saturday, November 10, we are hosting a CrossFit Hero Workout, “CHAD,” in honor of U.S. Navy Senior Chief Chad Wilkinson, to honor our Veterans and support Veterans Mental Health. By bringing our community together, we honor all our service members and support Veteran wellness. This event is free, but registration is required.
Nov. 10 | 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 a.m.
Ohio MilVets Veterans Day Rally at the NVMM
Join us at the MILVETS Veterans Day Rally on November 10th to celebrate and honor our Veterans. The event will feature entertainment, a free meal and Veteran-related vendor tents. All attendees can also take advantage of the Dog Tag Discount Program and enjoy discounted or complementary admission to NVMM and COSI. Let’s come together to show our appreciation for those who have served to protect this great nation. Please join us in support of “Toys for Tots” and bring a toy. Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus will be making their first appearance in Columbus!
Nov. 11 | 11 a.m.
Veterans Day National Ceremony
On Veterans Day, we’re privileged to welcome Walter “Ted” Carter Jr., 17th president of The Ohio State University, as our keynote speaker. Carter is a distinguished leader, both in the U.S. Navy as a Top Gun pilot and as the former superintendent of the United States Naval Academy. He is passionate about equipping the next generation for success in their chosen careers and as citizens. President Carter embodies the selfless service we celebrate today. His journey from the flight deck to the halls of learning reminds us that the impact of our Veterans extends far beyond the battlefield. NBC4 News Anchor Colleen Marshall will be our Master of Ceremonies. Our national ceremony is free with your discounted admission.
Explore more articles for the veteran community here.
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