What you need to know
- Veterans Day is November 11th
- On November 11th, the National Park Service will waive admission fees to all national parks, including Yosemite.
- San Marino’s Huntington Library, Museum, and Botanical Garden will offer free admission to veterans on November 10th
Pausing to pay our respects to our veterans is something we gratefully do every Veterans Day, as do many businesses, cultural institutions, and beautiful natural places.
Veterans Day is observed every November 11th as a “celebration of American veterans’ patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.”
There are many ways to celebrate this August occasion, with several events taking place at Southern California’s museums, attractions, restaurants, and cultural centers.
And far beyond our region, some of the biggest events take place in national parks, or at the gates of parks where there is an entrance fee. Veterans Day is a free day in the National Park System, and on November 11th Yosemite National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, and several other gorgeous destinations offer free admission for all visitors.
Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills will host an in-person event Nov. 11 that will include speeches, musical performances, a wreath-laying ceremony, military flight, children’s activities and more. The 64th Annual Veterans Day Celebration begins at 11 a.m. at Liberty Hall.
A Veterans Day commemoration ceremony will be held on November 11th at Heroes Hall in Costa Mesa. The National Boys Choir will perform at the free afternoon assembly, which will also feature “the unveiling of a new plaque honoring the heroes and veterans who fell in the aftermath of 9/11.”
Country Campout Weekend Presented by SUBARU is filled with great live music and a great goal of giving back to those who have contributed. “Event organizers have pledged to donate $1 for every ticket sold to ‘Shelter to Soldier,’ and Subaru has graciously agreed to provide additional funds to increase the total donation. ” says the festival team.
The Huntington Library, Museum and Botanical Garden welcomes veterans with free admission (including one guest) on Friday, November 10th. Attendees are invited to experience “contemplation, peace, and fun amidst the beauty and tranquility of Huntington Gardens.” The day is hosted by the Pipia & Ma Welcome Home Fund, a Pasadena Community Foundation fund.
Veterans can visit the San Marino Gardens ticket window on November 10th.
The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach will offer free admission to veterans and active military on Saturday, Nov. 11, but please note that advance reservations are required.
Santa’s Village SkyPark near Lake Arrowhead also offers veterans a free day of fun at Christmas-themed attractions. This deal will run from November 9th to 12th. Your ID will be valid at the entrance.
The Pacific Wheel on the Santa Monica Pier will light up with patriotic symbols and images on the nights of November 10th and 11th. If you’re in town early on November 10th, be sure to join us for the Veterans Day ceremony on the pier at 10am.
On Nov. 11, many restaurants will offer meals and specials to veterans. Farmer Boys will be saying “thank you” all day long with free Big His Cheese. Remember to show your ID to enjoy your free benefits.
Black Angus Steakhouse will be offering a free steak dinner on Friday, Nov. 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Be sure to carry your veteran identification card. Veterans can enjoy a “juicy 6-ounce top sirloin with homemade mashed potatoes and fresh broccoli served with garlic butter” at any of its 32 locations.
NORMS will be serving its famous Four Deuces (2 eggs, 2 sausage links, 2 slices of bacon, 2 pancakes) to veterans on November 11th. Be sure to eat there or get take-out and have your ID ready.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse will also be giving away free Chocolate Chunk Pizookies (with any $11.95 purchase) to veterans on November 11th. There is also a second contract. Check out all the details now.