Veterans Day 2025: Date, History and how to Honor Those Who Served
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WASHINGTON – Veterans Day 2025 will be observed on Tuesday, November 11th, offering a moment to recognize and thank teh men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Unlike Memorial Day, which specifically honors those who died while serving, Veterans Day pays tribute to all veterans, both living and deceased, who have served in wars, during peacetime, and at home.
Understanding the distinction between these two significant holidays is crucial. While Memorial Day is a day of solemn remembrance for those who made the ultimate sacrifice, veterans Day is a day for expressing gratitude and support for the dedication and service of all who wore the uniform. This year’s observance provides an opportunity to reflect on the contributions of veterans across generations and to acknowledge the ongoing needs of those who have served.
A History of Honoring Service
Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day was first established to commemorate the end of World War I, which officially concluded on november 11, 1918, when the armistice with Germany went into effect. In 1954, president Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the name to Veterans Day, broadening its focus to honor all American veterans of all wars.
Federal Holidays in the U.S.
Veterans Day is one of 11 federal holidays recognized annually in the United States. The complete list includes:
* New Year’s Day (Jan. 1)
* Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday in January)
* Presidents’ Day (Third Monday in February)
* Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
* Juneteenth (June 19)
* Independence Day (July 4)
* Labor Day (First Monday in September)
* Columbus Day (Second Monday in October)
* Veterans Day (Nov. 11)
* Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday of November)
* Christmas Day (Dec.25)
for those working in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, Inauguration Day, held on January 20th of every fourth year, is observed as an additional holiday.
Looking Ahead: 2025-2026 Federal Holiday Dates
Here’s a look at the remaining federal holiday dates for 2025 and into 2026:
* Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, Nov. 27,2025
* Christmas Day: Thursday,Dec. 25, 2025
* New Year’s Day: Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
* Martin Luther King jr. Day: Monday, Jan. 19, 2026
* Presidents’ Day: Monday, Feb. 16, 2026
* Memorial Day: Monday, May 25, 2026
* Juneteenth: Friday, June 19, 2026
* Independence Day: Friday, July 3, 2026
* Labor Day: Monday, sept. 7, 2026
* Columbus Day: Monday, Oct. 12, 2026
