Boston's Best Veterans Day 2015 Events
Each year, the city of Boston celebrates those who have served our country on Nov. 11, Veterans Day. There are various events held throughout the city that are family-friendly and free of charge. Since the holiday always falls on a Wednesday, the city often extends its celebrations through the following weekend. Below you will find five events held in the city that you may choose to participate in as a way to say "thank you" to the brave men and women who have risked their lives for our freedom.
Beginning on Boylston St. at Tremont on Wednesday, November 11
Boston Common
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 303-5693
www.suffolkcountylegion.org
Date: Nov. 11, 2015 at 1 p.m.
The Veterans Day Parade is a staple for many in and around the city. The parade goes around the Boston Common and ends at City Hall Plaza. Several police officers and firefighters walk in the parade, many of whom are veterans themselves. In years past, the Boston Police Pipes and Drum Corps has lead the parade on its route.
Beginning on Boylston St. at Tremont
Boston Common
Boston, MA 02108
www.veteransforpeace.org
Date: Date: Nov. 11, 2015 at 1 p.m.
The Veterans For Peace Parade begins just a few minutes after the First Veteran's Day Parade and follows the same route. Those walking in the second parade are part of a group that was founded in 1985 that strive to increase awareness about society's role in wars, and the price they have to pay. The parade and the organization are focused on the idea of ending engagements around the world and bringing soldiers home.
Natick Fire Department Headquarters
22 East Central St.
Natick, MA 01760
www.natickma.gov
Date: Nov. 11, 2015 at 6 p.m.
The Annual Veterans Day Appreciation Dinner is held at the Fire Department headquarters in Natick each year. The event is sponsored by the Natick Veterans Council, Firefighters Local 1707, and local businesses. Although you need to RSVP (by calling the telephone number above), the event is free to local veterans and their families, as well as the families of active-duty service members.
Franklin Park Zoo
1 Franklin Park Road
Boston, MA 02121
(617) 541-5466
www.zoonewengland.org
Date: Nov. 11, 2015 at 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Veterans wishing to spend their day with their families at the Franklin Park Zoo will be offered free admission on Veterans Day. The zoo organization offers this free entry to veterans each year, and it's a nice opportunity for vets to enjoy their day. Come out and spend time with your family, it's the perfect way to honor veterans and give the little ones a day that they'll remember as well.
New England Center for Homeless Veterans
17 Court St.
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 371-1800
www.nechv.org
Date: Daily, times vary
This is also an important day to remember those veterans who have sacrificed so much and still need our help. Although volunteers are needed and appreciated every single day, some people find time on Veterans Day to get down to the New England Center for Homeless Veterans and help serve meals. You will have to visit the website above, or call the phone number for more information, and to pre-register before volunteering.
Related: Boston's Best Veterans Day Events
Boston-based writer Effie Orfanides keeps up with all of the latest happenings in her city. She loves eating at Boston's hotspots, having drinks at the trendiest bars, and enjoying all that Boston has to offer. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
