5 Veterans Day parades + events across Alabama—November 11

Veterans Day is Friday, November 11. This national holiday is a great way to honor and thank the servicemen and women who have served in every branch of the US armed forces. Read on and check out five parades taking place across the state to honor the day.

1. National Veterans Day Parade—Birmingham

Did you know Birmingham is home to America’s first Veterans Day? Birmingham veteran Raymond Weeks had the idea to expand Armistice Day to celebrate all veterans. President Ronald Reagan granted Weeks the Presidential Citizenship Medal, recognizing him as the driving force behind the national holiday. Weeks led the first National Veterans Day Parade in 1947 in Birmingham, Alabama, and he continued the tradition until his passing in 1985.

Now in its 75th year, you’re invited to continue the tradition on the streets of downtown Birmingham on November 11.

• When: Friday, November 11 | 11AM-4:30PM
• View parade route
• Learn more

2. Veterans Day Parade—Huntsville

Huntsville joins in on the Veterans Day celebrations, honoring our country’s bravest veterans with a grand parade. The best viewing is at Veterans Memorial Park on Monroe Street. 

• When: Friday, November 11 | 11AM
• View parade route
• Learn more

3. Mobile Veterans Day Parade—Mobile

Watch an exciting parade roll through the streets of downtown Mobile, with participants like The University of South Alabama Marching Band, local government officials, over 1,000 JROTC cadets, area high school marching bands and more.

• When: Friday, November 11 | 10AM
• Where: Kicks off at the Mobile Civic Center, travels along Canal St., Broad St. and returns to the Center by way of Government St.
• Learn more

4. Montgomery Veterans Day Celebration—Montgomery

The City of Montgomery hosts the free Montgomery Veterans Day Celebration to honor those who have served in America’s armed forces. This family-friendly event includes live patriotic music, food and more. 

“In Montgomery, we have a unique relationship with our military servicemembers. Many of those who serve at Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base or in the 187th Fighter Wing of the Alabama Air National Guard choose to come back to Montgomery and stay here to make a difference following their military service. Montgomery’s veterans led on the frontlines in defense of this nation; and now they lead on the frontlines of our community. We should honor them every day, but November 11 gives us a chance to come together for a citywide celebration of our veterans and their families.” 

Mayor Steven L. Reed, City of Montgomery

• When: Friday, November 11 | 10AM
• Where: Riverwalk Stadium in downtown Montgomery
• Learn more

5. Florence Veterans Day Program—Florence

Celebrate Veterans Day with the City of Florence at the annual Veterans Day program. All are welcome! While the number of attendees is not restricted, seating is limited. Standing room is available and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs. Can’t make it in person? Tune in to the event LIVE on the City of Florence Facebook Page.

• When: Friday, November 11 | 11AM-Noon
• Where: Florence-Lauderdale County Veterans Memorial Park, 301 Veterans Park Drive, north of Wilson Dam
• Learn more

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