Veterans Day is celebrated annually on November 11, the same day that World War I ended in 1918. Originally established as Armistice Day, it was a way to honor the Americans who had served in that war. In 1954 it was renamed Veterans Day and today the holiday honors all men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces during times of war and peace. To recognize and celebrate these servicemen and women, there will be plenty of events throughout our metropolitan area. Check out the list below for a few highlights.

To all brave men and women who have served in our military and to their families who supported the cause of freedom – we sincerely thank you.

Photo courtesy of: Arlington National Cemetery

National Veterans Day Observance | November 11, 11:00 AM

Arlington National Cemetery

The 69th annual National Veterans Day Observance will take place on Friday, November 11 beginning at 11 AM, the observance will also be live-streamed.

The U.S. Army Military District of Washington will conduct a Presidential Armed Forces Full Honor Wreath-Laying Ceremony at 11 a.m. at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, followed by an observance program in ANC’s Memorial Amphitheater. A prelude by The United States Navy Band and Sea Chanters will begin in the amphitheater at 10:30 a.m.

WASHINGTON, D.C.

Photo courtesy of: Kaiser Health News

40th Anniversary Of The Wall | November 11, 1:00 – 3:00 PM

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

This Veterans day, VVM will host a very special Observance at The Wall. In addition to celebrating the service of all veterans, especially Vietnam veterans, this year marks the 40th anniversary of the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Bluegrass Music with the U.S. Navy | November 11, 1:00 – 2:00 PM

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library

For Veterans Day, the Library and the National Museum of the U.S. Navy present a musical program in honor of the nation’s veterans past and present, featuring the Navy Band’s honored music group, Country Current.

Reserve a spot

National Cathedral Veterans Day Concert | November 11, 7:00 PM

Washington National Cathedral

Join Washington National Cathedral and “The President’s Own” United States Marine Chamber Orchestra for an evening of patriotic and celebratory music, presented in collaboration with Dog Tag Bakery, Team RWB, Hidden Heroes, and other organizations working to support veterans and their families in civilian life.

Free Admission

Veterans Day Weekend Monument Run | November 12, 9:30 – 11:30 AM

Lincoln Memorial

The Veterans Leadership Council, D.C. Chapter will host a Veterans Day weekend Monument Run. It will begin at the Lincoln Memorial and make its way through the Mall with a final stop at Founding Farmers (1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW) for an informal networking brunch.

Free Admission

VIRGINIA

Photo courtesy of: Mount Vernon

Honoring Veterans Day | November 11 – 13, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

National Museum of the United States Army

Veterans Day is the perfect occasion to gather at the National Museum of the United States Army in Fort Belvoir. Throughout the weekend they are featuring special visitor activities and commemorations. Museum volunteers will be on hand to share personal artifacts and stories from their military service.

Free Admission

Flags In | November 11, 12:00 – 3:00 PM

7482 Lee Highway, Falls Church, VA 22042

Celebrate Veterans Day by joining George Mason District Boy Scout families at “Flags-in” – placing American Flags on the graves of veterans.

Free Admission

Mount Vernon Salutes Veterans Day | November 11, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Mount Vernon

In honor of our nation’s veterans, Mount Vernon admits FREE all active duty, former, or retired military personnel on Veterans Day. Veterans are invited to place a floral tribute at the Tomb, courtesy of the Daughters of the American Revolution

Free For Veterans | Tickets

MARYLAND

8th Annual Veterans Day Parade & Celebration | November 13, 9:30 AM

Columbia Lakefront Stage, Columbia

Celebrate the bravery and sacrifice of our county’s veterans during the 8th Annual Veterans Day Parade & Celebration on Sunday. The parade will be held in Downtown Columbia and a celebration will follow the procession.

MCVET 2022 5K/10K Veterans Day Virtual Run & Walk | November 5 -11

Virtually Online

Virtual runs and walks are taking place around the world at your own pace, outside or on a treadmill, alone or with a group of friends. Participants run or walk for charitable causes while raising awareness and funding.

$35 Virtual 5K | $35 Virtual 10K

Johns Hopkins Veterans, Continuing to Serve: Veterans Day Commemoration | November 11, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Great Room (also online), Levering Hall, Baltimore

Join Hopkins veterans for a Veterans Day ceremony to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The event will be livestreamed. In-person attendees are invited to remain for socializing and refreshments after the ceremony.

Register Here