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Veterans Day

Veterans Day is on November 11. It celebrates the signing of the armistice. This ended World War I and allied the nations. On this day, veterans are shown appreciation for their services. It is a day to honor soldiers.

Upcoming Dates & Where They Are Celebrated

Veterans Day is observed everywhere. If the 11th falls on a weekday, many will prefer to celebrate on the weekend. This gives more people the chance to attend the services. For government buildings, the holiday will always be on a weekday. Here are the upcoming Veterans Day dates:

  • Saturday, November 11, 2017 - government buildings will be closed on Friday, November 10, 2017
  • Sunday, November 11, 2018 - government buildings will be closed on Monday, November 12, 2018
  • Monday, November 11, 2019
  • Wednesday, November 11, 2020
  • Thursday, November 11, 2021
  • Friday, November 11, 2022
  • Saturday, November 11, 2023 - government buildings will be closed on Friday, November 10, 2023
  • Monday, November 11, 2024
  • Tuesday, November 11, 2025

Where Is Veterans Day Considered A Holiday?

Veterans Day is observed everywhere in the United States. Government offices are always closed. If Veterans Day falls on a Saturday, the government offices will be closed the Friday before. If it falls on a Sunday, they will be closed the Monday after. Many schools close down on Veterans Day, while others remain open. Those that remain open are often the ones who have Veterans Day activities. Local and state government buildings aren't required to close, but may choose to. The same can be said about local businesses. Also, public transit will likely run on a holiday schedule.

Festivities & Events During Veterans Day

Veterans Day exists to honor both the dead and the living. There is always a parade to honor the soldiers. Although, some smaller areas may not offer parades. There are also services offered in local churches, to share prayers for the deceased. Throughout the country, there is a 2 minute period of silence at 11am the day of. This is because it was in the 11th hour that the armistice came into effect. There are often assemblies in schools and other organizations to honor the veterans.

A Brief History Of Veterans Day

The armistice was signed between Germany and the allied nations on November 11 in 1918. This treaty ended the war. It was President Wilson who decided how the day would be celebrated. He chose an honor for the soldiers who heroism cost them their lives in the war. Then in 1926, after the war was officially recognized as over, it was Armistice Day was declared a day of celebration. It also became mandatory for the flag of the United States to be on display as well. After World War II, the name of the holiday was changed to Veterans Day. This was to include the honor of World War II soldiers. Since, it has stood to honor all Veterans, regardless of which battles they fought in.