Live Countdown to November 11, 2025
Real-time countdown honoring all who served!
When is Veterans Day 2025? Veterans Day falls on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. Unlike most federal holidays, it's always observed on November 11th regardless of the day of the week. This date commemorates the armistice ending World War I on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.
Understanding when this federal holiday occurs helps with planning around service closures and finding ways to honor military veterans. November 11th holds special historical significance, and maintaining this specific date preserves the connection to the original Armistice Day and the millions who served.
As a federal holiday, November 11th means closure for federal government offices, federal courts, and the Federal Reserve. This differs from holidays like Columbus Day where observance varies significantly by state. Veterans Day maintains consistent federal recognition nationwide, though state and local government observances may differ.
Federal offices and courts, most banks, post offices (USPS), many state/local government offices, most schools (varies by district), and federal employee workplaces.
Stock markets (NYSE, NASDAQ), most private businesses, retail stores, restaurants (many with veteran specials), grocery stores, gas stations, and public transportation (may run on modified schedules).
VA hospitals provide emergency services only. VA clinics generally close. VA Crisis Line (988 then press 1) operates 24/7. Most veteran service organizations host special events on this day.
The holiday began as Armistice Day in 1919, marking the first anniversary of World War I's end. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11th a day to honor the "war to end all wars." Congress made it an official holiday in 1938, initially honoring World War I veterans specifically.
Following World War II and the Korean War, the nation recognized the need to honor all veterans, not just those from WWI. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. This broader designation honors all American veterans - those who served in peacetime and wartime, living and deceased.
The 11th Hour Significance: The armistice ending World War I took effect at 11:00 AM on November 11, 1918. Many Veterans Day ceremonies, including the wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery's Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, occur at precisely 11:00 AM to honor this historic moment.
These holidays honor different groups. Memorial Day (last Monday in May) specifically commemorates service members who died while serving. It's a solemn day of remembrance for the fallen. Veterans Day celebrates all U.S. military veterans who have served - living and deceased. It's a day to thank living veterans for their service and remember those who've passed.
Over 19 million living veterans currently reside in the United States, having served in conflicts from World War II through current operations. Veterans Day provides an opportunity for communities to acknowledge their service and sacrifice.
November 11th offers numerous ways to show appreciation for those who served. From attending local ceremonies to supporting veteran causes, there are options for every schedule and preference.
Communities nationwide host ceremonies, parades, and special events. The national ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery features wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and attracts thousands. Local ceremonies often occur at veterans memorials, city halls, or schools. Many feature color guards, veteran speakers, and moments of silence at 11:00 AM.
Check your city or county website for local events. Veterans organizations like VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) and American Legion posts typically host gatherings. Many are open to the public and welcome community participation.
Numerous organizations serve veterans year-round and appreciate donations or volunteer support:
Many businesses offer free meals or discounts to veterans on November 11th. Popular participants include:
Veterans should bring military ID, VA card, or discharge papers (DD-214) to verify service. Offers vary by location, so call ahead to confirm participation.
Simple actions make meaningful impacts. Thank a veteran you know personally. Share veteran stories on social media. Fly the American flag at your home or business. Learn about a veteran in your family history and share their story with younger generations. These personal connections often mean more than formal ceremonies.
The Tuesday observance in 2025 creates a regular work week for most Americans. Understanding what services operate normally versus those affected by the federal holiday helps with planning.
Federal Reserve banks close, which typically means most commercial banks also close. However, this isn't guaranteed. Some banks may maintain limited hours or specific branch operations. Check your bank's holiday schedule in advance. Online banking, mobile apps, and ATMs function normally, though transaction processing may be delayed until the next business day.
The stock market (NYSE and NASDAQ) remains open with regular trading hours. However, the bond market closes in observance of the holiday. If you need to complete banking transactions, do so by November 10th to ensure processing before the holiday.
USPS suspends regular mail delivery and closes post offices. No mail is delivered or collected on November 11th. Service resumes Wednesday, November 12th. Priority Mail Express offers limited delivery for an additional fee.
Private carriers operate differently. UPS and FedEx typically maintain operations with possible modified schedules. UPS Ground services usually continue, while UPS Store locations may close. FedEx Express and Ground services often run normally. Always check carrier websites for specific holiday schedules, as policies can change annually.
VA hospitals provide emergency care only on federal holidays. Routine appointments are rescheduled. VA clinics generally close completely. The Veterans Crisis Line (dial 988 then press 1) operates 24/7 including holidays. VA prescription refills should be requested well in advance if you'll need medications during the holiday period.
VA regional offices close, so benefits claims processing and in-person services aren't available. Online services through VA.gov remain accessible for checking claim status, viewing benefits information, or sending secure messages to healthcare teams.
Veterans Day 2025 is on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. It always falls on November 11th regardless of the day of the week, commemorating the WWI armistice that took effect at 11:00 AM on 11/11/1918.
Yes, it's a federal holiday. Federal offices, courts, and most banks close. Unlike holidays moved to Mondays for three-day weekends, Veterans Day stays on November 11th to maintain historical significance.
Veterans Day (November 11th) honors all U.S. military veterans - living and deceased. Memorial Day (last Monday in May) specifically commemorates those who died while serving. Veterans Day celebrates service; Memorial Day remembers sacrifice.
Many restaurants offer free meals or discounts to veterans on November 11th. Participants typically include Applebee's, Chili's, Olive Garden, Red Lobster, and others. Veterans need military ID or proof of service. Call ahead to confirm participation.
School closures vary by district. Some close completely, others hold educational programs or assemblies while remaining in session, and some operate normally. Check your local school district's calendar.
Yes, Arlington National Cemetery remains open on Veterans Day and hosts the National Veterans Day Observance ceremony at 11:00 AM. This event features wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and is attended by thousands, including the President or Vice President.
Whether you have the day off or work as usual, November 11th offers opportunities to acknowledge veteran service. If your workplace is open, consider organizing a moment of silence at 11:00 AM or displaying patriotic decorations. Some companies collect donations for veteran charities or coordinate volunteer activities.
For those with the day off, attending a local ceremony provides meaningful community connection. If unable to attend in person, many ceremonies stream online. The national ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery broadcasts live.
The most important aspect isn't grand gestures but genuine appreciation. A simple "thank you for your service" to a veteran you encounter means more than you might realize. Taking time to learn about military history, understanding different branches and their roles, or educating children about the meaning of service helps preserve the day's significance for future generations.
As November 11th approaches, remember that honoring veterans extends beyond a single day. Supporting veteran causes, hiring veterans, or simply listening when veterans share their experiences demonstrates lasting appreciation. This federal holiday serves as an annual reminder, but respect for those who served should remain constant throughout the year.