Veterans Day: Things to do throughout Southern California
Looking for something to do this Veterans Day? We've got a list of some of Southern California's best events, and some great deals being offered by restaurants.
To celebrate the nation's servicemen, dozens of locations will be offering discounts and even some freebies on Saturday, when the United States observes a day dedicated to all members of the armed forces.
Things to do
VET DAY LA'23 hosted by the Los Angeles County Military Veterans Affairs
A massive block party honoring veterans will kickoff at 8 a.m. at Bob Hope Patriotic Hall, located at 1816 S. Figueroa Street. The event, hosted by LA County's Military Veterans Affairs, will also feature a celebrity Army v. Navy basketball game and games for the family, as well as a resource fair and an appearance by beloved actor and former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Forest Lawn's 64th Annual Veterans Day Celebration
Starting at 11 a.m., the Forest Lawn community will hold a salute to armed forces members at the Hall of Liberty, located on 6300 Forest Lawn Drive. The event will feature a military flyover, patriotic music, a wreath laying and color guard performance. There will be food and family activities.
Veterans Day 5K/10K/Half Marathon in Long Beach
The City of Long Beach will be holding their annual 5K/10K race to show their support for the armed forces.
Veterans Day Celebration at Houghton Park, Long Beach
Long Beach will hold a Veterans Day Celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.at Houghton Park. The free, family-friendly event will include a veterans resource fair with over 35 participating organizations, live musical entertainment, flyovers with historic aircrafts, a kids' zone, food trucks and a beer garden.
Veterans Day Ceremony in Huntington Beach
An annual tradition continues on Saturday, when the American Legion Huntington Beach Post 133 hosts their Veterans Day ceremony at the Pier Plaza starting at 11 a.m.
Veterans Day Celebration, Veterans Park, Carson
The City of Carson is hosting a Veterans Day Celebration at Veterans Park from 10 a.m. to noon. The ceremony's keynote speaker is the highly awarded Navy Commander Virginia R. Kingston.
Veterans Day Ceremony in Redondo Beach
Redondo Beach's Veterans Day Tribute begins at 1 p.m. at the Redondo Beach Veterans Memorial in Veterans Park, adjacent to the Redondo Pier.
The keynote speaker will be retired U.S. Air Force Col. Kenneth Hughey, who spent more than six years in a prisoner-of-war camp in North Vietnam. There will be a barbecue following the ceremony.
Veterans Day Ceremony, Malibu
A Veterans Day ceremony takes place at the Malibu City Hall from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The theme is "Legacy of Generations in Service."
Veterans Day Ceremony in Azusa
Azusa's annual ceremony takes place 11 a.m. at the City Hall Courtyard.
Country Campout Weekend at the Prado Regional Park in Chino
The massive event, which spans all weekend, will feature live music from the likes of Sean Stamaly, Drew Baldridge and Chris Janson. The festival will also donate $1 to "Shelter to Soldier" for every purchased ticket for the festival.
Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific
Entry fees are waived for veterans on Saturday.
Santa Monica Pier
Events got off to an early start on Friday with a Veterans Day Ceremony that featured a military flyover, but throughout the day Saturday the world famous Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel will display patriotic symbols and messages throughout the day.
San Fernando Valley Veterans Day Parade
The San Fernando Valley Veterans Day Parade begins 11:11 a.m.at the corner of Laurel Canyon Boulevard and San Fernando Mission Boulevard in Mission Hills, and proceed south on Laurel Canyon for 1.1 miles to Ritchie Valens Park.
Visit a National Park
As a way to celebrate the nationwide holiday, all United States National Parks will waive entry fees.
Freebies and Discounts for Veterans
As usual on Veterans Day, the nation's finest will receive a slew of freebies and discounts at some of the nation's most popular eateries.
Applebee's
Veterans can receive a complimentary entree when dining in any restaurant after showing a military ID.
Chili's
Both veterans and active duty service members are eligible for a free meal. Drinks and gratuity are not included in the offer.
Denny's
Veterans can enjoy a free Grand Slam breakfast.
Hooters
Veterans can enjoy a free meal from their special Veterans Day menu upon purchase of any beverage.
Farmer Boys
Both veterans and active duty members can receive a free cheeseburger after showing a military ID.
BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse
Want dessert? As long as a veteran of active duty member spends at least $11.95, they can enjoy a free serving of BJ's world famous Pizookie and a coupon for a free appetizer.
California Pizza Kitchen
Veterans and active duty members can enjoy a free entree from the special Veterans Day menu as well as a free non-alcoholic drink.
Black Angus Steakhouse
Veterans receive a complimentary steak dinner from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. as long as they show military ID.
Starbucks
Veterans, active duty members and military spouses are all eligible for a free tall cold brew coffee or tall hot coffee on Saturday.
Red Robin
Veterans and active duty members can enjoy a free burger and bottomless fries.
