Veterans Day 2023: When is it Observed and Federal Holiday Details

Veterans Day is celebrated on the 11th of November to honor military veterans, living and dead, with parades and observances.

Veterans Day, a time to remember all those who have served in the US military, past and present, is celebrated on November 11th each year. It is a day to honor the millions of people who have served, with celebrations held across the country and globe. The day is marked by parades and other observances, including a ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

The history of Veterans Day dates back to the end of World War I when an armistice was signed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, marking the end of the war. This day was largely considered the end of "the war to end all wars" and was called Armistice Day. Congress officially recognized November 11 as the end of the war in 1926 and declared it an official holiday in honor of World War I veterans in 1938.

As World War II and the Korean War occurred, several veterans' organizations urged Congress to modify the meaning of the holiday to make it broader and celebrate all veterans. On June 1, 1954, Congress modified the holiday by changing it from Armistice Day to Veterans Day, honoring US veterans of all wars.

Veterans Day is a federal holiday, and when it falls on a weekend, businesses and government officials may recognize it on both the official day and the following Monday. Schools usually have the day off, and state and local governments have the autonomy to decide whether they will continue to operate or join in observing the holiday.

In addition, private businesses, such as retailers, restaurants, and tourist attractions, can make their own decisions about closing or opening during Veterans Day. Some businesses may offer special discounts or promotions to veterans as a form of recognition and appreciation on this day.

Veterans Day is celebrated in communities with parades or other celebrations honoring service members. The National Veterans Day Ceremony is held each year on November 11 at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. The day is also celebrated in other countries, such as Canada and Australia, where similar Remembrance Day activities take place.

There are many ways to recognize the sacrifice and dedication of veterans on Veterans Day, including greeting a veteran by wishing them "Happy Veterans Day" or saying "Thank you for your service." Many organizations also host virtual events to honor veterans on this day.

While Veterans Day was briefly celebrated on a different date in the past, it was returned to its original observance of November 11th in 1978. This change was made after citizens expressed confusion and unhappiness with the October holiday, and it has been celebrated on November 11th ever since.