Have you ever wondered exactly when is Veterans Day and why that date matters? It’s a small but meaningful part of American culture—and it has deeper roots than many realize. Let’s walk through it together.
The Date: Always November 11
Veterans Day is observed every year on November 11 in the United States. It doesn’t move around the calendar, except for scheduling adjustments when it falls on a weekend.
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If Nov. 11 falls on a Saturday, many offices and institutions observe it on Friday, Nov. 10.
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If Nov. 11 is a Sunday, it’s observed on Monday, Nov. 12.
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But for official ceremonies and meaning, Nov. 11 remains the heart of Veterans Day.
In 2025, Veterans Day will fall on Tuesday, November 11.
Why November 11? A Bit of History
This date isn’t random—it reflects a historic moment.
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End of World War I
The armistice ending major combat in World War I took effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. -
Armistice Day
In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the first Armistice Day. In 1938, Congress made it a federal holiday. -
Renaming to Veterans Day
After World War II and the Korean War, the holiday was expanded to honor all U.S. veterans. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the law changing its name to Veterans Day. -
A Temporary Move (and Return)
In 1971, Veterans Day was moved to late October under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. However, public sentiment favored keeping it tied to the armistice anniversary, so in 1978 the date was restored to November 11.
Interesting Facts & Traditions
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Not “Veteran’s Day” – The name has no apostrophe because it doesn’t belong to one veteran, but honors all.
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Different from Memorial Day – Memorial Day remembers those who died in service; Veterans Day celebrates all who served.
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Global Parallels – Other countries mark November 11 too, such as Canada and the UK with Remembrance Day.
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Ceremonies & Traditions –
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A moment of silence is often held at 11:00 a.m.
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A wreath-laying ceremony takes place at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery.
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Many communities hold parades, flag-raisings, and tributes across the nation.
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Mini Q&A: Quick Answers
Q: Does Veterans Day ever change date?
A: No—the date is fixed on November 11. Observances may shift to Friday or Monday when it lands on a weekend.
Q: Is Veterans Day a working holiday?
A: It’s a federal holiday, so most government offices, schools, and postal services close.
Q: How do states observe it?
A: Many states and local communities hold additional ceremonies or parades on or around that date.
A Personal Few Words
I’ve always liked that Veterans Day is anchored to a specific moment in history—November 11 doesn’t just sound symbolic; it truly is. Growing up, I remember my hometown parade always being scheduled exactly on Nov. 11, even if it fell midweek. That gave the day a real sense of purpose. Honoring veterans on that date feels like honoring the memory of everyone who served before us.
November 11 is the unchanging heart of Veterans Day—that’s when we pause, remember, and say thanks. The date never wavers, even if observances shift a bit. So mark your calendar: that’s when is Veterans Day every year. Do you have a Veterans Day story in your family or community? I’d love to hear it!