As stated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, in the United States, Veterans Day is observed on November 11th every year to honor the end of World War I, which occurred on the “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” in 1918. Originally called Armistice Day, it was first celebrated on November 11, 1919. In 1926, Congress passed a resolution to observe this day annually, and it became a national holiday in 1938.
Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who lost their lives while serving in the military, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans, living or deceased. It is especially an occasion to express gratitude to living veterans who have served their country honorably during war or peacetime.
San Diego has the largest concentration of military personnel in the United States, which is why there will be numerous free and fun Veterans Day events for people to attend throughout the county.
Veterans Day Events:
Fleet Week San Diego
Fleet Week San Diego is hosting a series of exciting activities from November 8 to 12. The event will showcase military displays, cutting-edge equipment in the innovation zone, live music, delicious food, and offer tours of active Navy and Coast Guard ships. The event’s purpose is to honor, celebrate, and express gratitude to the men and women of the military for their valuable contributions to the San Diego Region. The public events and partnerships aim to increase awareness of the defense community’s many contributions to the region.
USS Midway Veterans Day Celebration
On November 11, the USS Midway Museum will host a Salute to Service Festival, where there will be live music, kids’ activities, contests, and free food & drink samples. They will have free admission to the museum for all military families, and there will also be an army book signing where you will be able to meet Larry Lindsey, author of “Long Slow Target,” a hilarious memoir during the Vietnam War & “Stump,” stories of WWII.
San Diego Veterans Day Parade
On November 12 at 11 a.m., thousands of residents and community leaders will line the parade route to pay tribute to America’s heroes – the Veterans of our Armed Forces. The event will start at Harbor Drive (In front of the County Admin Building) and is entirely free. If you would like to learn more about this, click here.
If you would like to learn about more things going on in the city check out our events guide!