The World War II Memorial on a Veterans Day bike ride last year
Looking for things to do on Veterans Day? Whether you want to pay tribute to those who have served or are looking for ways to keep the kids entertained on the day off from school, these suggestions should have you covered. And if you’ve got the scoop on any other special events going on, feel free to mention it in the comments. (It also never hurts to browse the Everyday Play page for even more ideas.)
Tour the Memorials
Where: National Mall
When: Throughout the day
Admission: Free
Observe the holiday by visiting the sites that honor our nation’s veterans. Make the rounds on the Mall at your leisure or attend special ceremonies — they will take place at the World War II Memorial at 9am and at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at 1pm, and the Korean War Memorial is a short walk from both.
National Veterans Day Ceremony
Where: Arlington Cemetery
When: 11am
Admission: Free
The National Veterans Day Ceremony begins at 11am with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by veterans’ organizations and remarks from dignitaries. Free and open to the public, attendees are encouraged to get there by 10:30am. Read more about Arlington Cemetery in this post about a visit there this summer.
Freedom Ring
Where: Arlington National Cemetery
When: 8am – 5pm
Admission: Free
Arlington National Cemetery will also host the Spirit of Liberty Foundation’s Freedom Bell in a special event to honor America’s Armed Forces on Veterans Day,. Visitors will be invited to ring the Freedom Bell, cast in bronze with steel from the twin towers, anytime from 8am – 5pm to honor a loved one in the military or pay tribute to our Armed Forces.
Mount Vernon Salutes Veterans
Where: Mount Vernon
When: 9am – 4pm
Admission: Free for military; $17/adult, $8/child, free for under 5
Special activities at George Washington’s former estate include a Tribute at the Tomb by “George Washington” and patriotic community concerts along with the regular tours and programs. Mount Vernon honors all active duty, former, or retired military personnel with free admission, plus a concert by the all-veteran barbershop chorus, The Harmony Heritage Singers.
Museum Tour
Where: U.S. Navy Museum
When: 10am – 5pm
Admission: Free
There may not be a special event happening, but it’s an apropos day to visit the museum dedicated to the history of the Navy. The fascinating displays range from replicas to the real thing — model ships, genuine periscopes, images from major exhibitions, and much more. Be sure to read this post about our experience there for more insight and an inside look.
Fun on the Farm
Where: Around the area
When: All day
Admission: Varies by locale
Enjoy the fall weather and plenty of amusements at an area farm — it may be your last chance before autumn loses its luster. Ticonderoga is always a top recommendation, and Great Country Farms has plenty to keep everyone entertained for hours.
Free Parking
Where: National Parks
When: All day
Admission: FREE
It’s the last fee free day of the year for national parks, which means there’s no entrance fee where they usually charge to get in. Take advantage of complimentary admission and the day off from school; hit the trail at Shenandoah or Great Falls, take a ride on Skyline Drive to see the mountains covered in autumn colors, or visit Harpers Ferry.
All Ages Art Workshop
Where: Little Loft
When: 2-4pm
Admission: $15
Get artsy on the day off: Toddlers can explore tactile stations, while older kids will enjoy book-making. There will be an assortment of printing, collage, and storytelling materials, as well as their famous sand table, rice table, play dough, homemade chunky glitter crayons, and shaving cream art.
The Young Spectaculars and the Front Yard Adventure
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center
When: 10am & 11:30am
Admission: $8
Take little ones to H Street to see a show. In this production from Art on the Horizon, meet brother and sister Andrew and Emma – aka The Young Spectaculars! – and join them for imaginative adventures in their front yard. The show is intended for the little hero inside all of us.
