Veterans Day is a special time to honor those who have served our country. Washington, D.C., offers a variety of events to commemorate this important day. From wreath-layings and ceremonies to concerts and family-friendly activities, there's something for everyone.
Wreath-Layings and Ceremonies
- National World War II Memorial: Join Friends of the National World War II Memorial for a 9 AM ceremony honoring WWII veterans with a wreath-laying at the Freedom Wall.
- Arlington National Cemetery: Witness a poignant National Veterans' Day Observance, featuring performances by the United States Marine Band and the US Navy Band Sea Chanters.
- World War I Memorial: The Doughboy Foundation will commemorate the end of WWI with the annual Bells of Peace wreath-laying ceremony at 11 AM.
- Navy Memorial: A wreath-laying ceremony honoring Navy veterans will take place from 1 to 2 PM.
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial: Join the 40th-anniversary commemoration of the "Three Servicemen" statue and the 20th anniversary of the "In Memory" plaque.
- Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism During World War II: Honor Japanese-American military veterans at a 2 PM ceremony featuring keynote speaker Cpl. Norio Uyematsu.
- Military Women's Memorial: Celebrate the contributions of military servicewomen at a 3-5 PM ceremony.
- Korean War Veterans Memorial: Attend a ceremony and wreath presentation hosted by the Korean War Veterans Memorial Foundation from 3 to 4 PM.
- Mount Vernon: Experience a full day of events at George Washington's estate, including floral tributes, musical performances, and historical activities.
- National Museum of the American Indian: Celebrate the legacy of Native American military members through conversations, performances, and a wreath-laying ceremony.
Concerts and Activities
- National Cathedral: Enjoy a concert featuring the United States Marine Chamber Orchestra and military singers on Saturday, November 9 at 4 PM.
- Navy Band Woodwind Quintet: Listen to a performance by the US Navy Band Woodwind Quintet at the Southwest Neighborhood Library on Saturday, November 9 from 2 to 3 PM.
- US Navy Band: Attend a concert featuring the Cruisers and a brass ensemble at the Martin Luther King Jr. Library on Saturday, November 9 from 1 to 4 PM.
- National Museum of American Jewish Military History: Create care packages for hospitalized veterans and watch silent World War I films between noon and 4 PM.
- National Archives: Join a book signing and discussion with WWII veterans Frank Cohn and Harry Miller on Wednesday, November 13 at 6:30 PM.
Weekend Events
- Veterans Day Parade: Watch the annual Veterans Day Parade on Constitution Avenue on Sunday, November 10 from noon to 3 PM.
- National Harbor: Enjoy a variety of events, including a concert by the United States Air Force Band District Brass on Sunday, November 10.
- DC War Memorial: Attend a ceremony hosted by the DC Mayor's Office of Veterans Affairs on Sunday, November 10 from 3 to 4 PM.
- Veterans Day 5K: Participate in a 5K run in Fairfax Corner on Sunday, November 10.
- Library of Congress Family Day: Explore World War I and II through family-friendly activities at the Library of Congress on Saturday, November 9.