Veterans Day, observed annually as a federal holiday on Nov. 11, thanks and honors individuals who served in the military in wartime or peacetime.
Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, dates back to Nov. 11, 1918, when a "temporary cessation of hostilities," or an armistice, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
"For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of 'the war to end all wars,'" the agency's website says. Veterans Day continues to be observed on Nov. 11, regardless of the day of the week it falls on.
When Armistice Day became a federal holiday in 1938, many states were already observing
it. In 1954, Congress, with support from veteran organizations, changed it to Veterans Day, and President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the legislation on June 1, 1954, according to History.com.
The purpose of the day is to be a "celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good," the Department of Veterans Affairs says on its website.
NYC to host largest celebration for Veterans Day
The annual NYC Veterans Day Parade, organized by the United War Veterans Council, is the nation's largest Veterans Day parade, according to organizers.
This year, the parade will begin at 12:30 p.m. ET with more than 20,000 service members, 25 floats and 280 marching units expected to march up Fifth Avenue on Wednesday, Nov. 11. Retired Navy Captain and NASA astronaut Sunita “Suni” Williams will serve as the parade's grand marshal.
"The parade will feature veterans of every generation dating back to WWII, active military from all branches of service, foreign allies, marching bands, parade floats, military vehicles & vintage automobiles," organizers said on social media.
The 2026 parade will also mark the 85th anniversary of World War II and the 25th anniversary of the War on Terror.
What businesses are closed on Veterans Day?
Banks and post offices will be closed on the holiday; however, grocery stores, restaurants and retailers will largely remain open. Several restaurant chains are also offering active-duty military personnel and veterans free meals and discounts. The U.S. stock market will also remain open.
The U.S. bond market, however, will be closed, according to the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association, and will reopen for regular business on Thursday, Nov. 12.
National parks are also expected to remain open and be free to enter, marking the last fee-free date this year.
How many federal holidays are left in 2026?
According to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, there are only two federal holidays left in 2026, including:
- Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, Nov. 26
- Christmas Day: Friday, Dec. 25
Federal holidays, also called public holidays, are designated by Congress and recognized by the federal government. They are a scheduled (and paid) day off for non-essential employees of the U.S. federal government.
Federal employees typically receive 11 public holiday days per calendar year, plus an additional day on the day of a new president's inauguration.
Contributing: Gabe Hauari / USA TODAY
Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at sshafiq@usatodayco.com and follow her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is Veterans Day a federal holiday? What to know about Nov. 11
