Veterans Day (United States) 2026
Veterans Day (United States) 2026 falls on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
What is Veterans Day (United States)?
Veterans Day is observed every year on November 11, regardless of the day of the week — in 2026 that's a Wednesday. It honors all who have served in the US armed forces, in contrast to Memorial Day, which specifically honors those who died in service.
Where the tradition comes from
The date traces back to Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I hostilities at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. It was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to honor veterans of all wars, not just World War I. Unlike most federal holidays, it's one of the few fixed to a specific calendar date rather than a particular weekday.
How it's observed in 2026
Veterans Day closes federal offices and banks regardless of which weekday it falls on. Many retailers offer discounts to veterans and active-duty service members, and communities across the country hold parades and ceremonies, often centered around 11 a.m.
Common questions
What day is Veterans Day 2026?
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 — Veterans Day is always November 11, regardless of weekday.
What's the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?
Veterans Day honors all who served, living and deceased; Memorial Day specifically honors those who died while serving.
Is Veterans Day the same as Armistice Day?
It shares the same date and origin — the end of World War I — but was renamed and broadened in scope to honor all veterans in 1954.