When is Veterans Day 2026?
Veterans Day 2026 is Wednesday, November 11, 2026. It is always observed on November 11 regardless of the day of the week, so there is no separate "observed" date in 2026.
Veterans Day 2026: Wednesday, November 11
Veterans Day 2026 falls on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. It is a federal holiday honoring everyone who has served in the United States Armed Forces — living and deceased, wartime and peacetime. Unlike floating holidays, Veterans Day is always observed on November 11, the anniversary of the World War I armistice.
Veterans Day 2026: Wednesday, November 11: what to know
- Veterans Day 2026 is Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
- 2026 date: Wednesday, November 11.
- Type: Federal holiday.
- Always on: November 11 (fixed date).
- First observed: 1919, as Armistice Day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?
Veterans Day (November 11) honors all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, living and deceased. Memorial Day (the last Monday in May — May 25 in 2026) specifically honors those who died while serving. Saying "Happy Memorial Day" to a living veteran misses the distinction; Veterans Day is the day to thank them directly.
Is mail delivered on Veterans Day?
No. Veterans Day is a federal holiday, so USPS does not deliver regular mail and post offices are closed. Most banks and federal offices are also closed, while many private businesses stay open.
Why is Veterans Day on November 11?
November 11 marks the 1918 armistice that ended fighting in World War I, which took effect at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month. The date was kept when Armistice Day became Veterans Day in 1954, and it was restored as the fixed date in 1978 after a brief experiment with Monday observance.
Do veterans get free meals on Veterans Day?
Many national restaurant chains and local businesses offer free or discounted meals to veterans and active-duty members on Veterans Day. Offers change each year and usually require proof of service, such as a VA ID card, military ID, or DD-214, so check with the business before you go.
Is Veterans Day spelled with an apostrophe?
The official spelling has no apostrophe: "Veterans Day," not "Veteran’s Day" or "Veterans’ Day." The Department of Veterans Affairs explains that the day does not "belong" to veterans — it is a day for honoring all veterans.