Veterans Day is a special time to honor the brave men and women who have served our country. As parents, we have the unique privilege of helping our children understand the sacrifices made by veterans to protect our freedoms. Fortunately, there are several events around the valley that allow us to celebrate Veterans Day as families while remembering the soldiers who fought for our liberties. Below is a list of family-friendly activities near you. I hope these events inspire a sense of patriotism and appreciation for the freedoms we enjoy.

Phoenix, Arizona

Honoring America’s Veterans Phoenix Parade

• Date: November 11, 2024
• Details: A grand parade featuring over 45,000 spectators, honoring veterans with various participants.
• More Info: Honoring America’s Veterans

Mesa Veterans Day Parade

• Date: November 11, 2024, at 11:00 AM
• Details: An annual parade honoring veterans, featuring floats, marching bands, and community organizations.
• More Info: Mesa Arizona

City of Tempe Parade

• Date: November 11, starting at 10 AM
• Details: A parade featuring community groups, veterans, and marching bands along Mill Avenue.
• More Info: Downtown Tempe

Anthem, Arizona

Daisy Mountain Veterans Day Parade

• Date: November 9, 2024, at 10:00 AM
• Details: Celebrating 20 years, the parade winds through the Anthem neighborhood.
• More Info: Daisy Mountain Veterans

Anthem Veterans Day Ceremony

• Date: November 11, at 10:00 AM
• Details: Ceremony at the Anthem Veterans Memorial Monument.
• More Info: Anthem Council

Mesa, Arizona

Mesa Veterans Day Parade

• Date: November 11, 2024, at 11:00 AM
• Details: An annual parade honoring veterans, featuring floats, marching bands, and community organizations.
• More Info: Mesa Arizona

Prescott, Arizona

Prescott Veterans Day Parade

• Date: November 11, opening ceremonies at 10:30 AM
• Details: An annual parade through downtown Prescott.
• More Info: Prescott AZ

Tucson, Arizona

Tucson Veterans Day Car Parade

• Date: November 11, 2024
• Details: A vibrant car parade celebrating veterans.
• More Info: Visit Tucson

Maybe a parade or local event isn’t in the cards this year. Here are a few meaningful ways you can celebrate Veterans Day at home:

• Read books about veterans and war heroes with your children.
• Make cards or write letters to thank veterans for their service.
• Donate to a veterans’ charity.
• Volunteer your time at a local veterans’ hospital or organization.
• If you have a veteran in your life, spend time talking to them and asking questions. Discuss the American flag and its significance.

By taking the time to honor our veterans, we can help ensure that future generations understand the importance of freedom and the sacrifices made to preserve it.