From the 1918 Armistice to America’s Largest Veterans Day Parade

Every November 11, Fifth Avenue fills with flags, marching bands and thousands of veterans for the largest Veterans Day parade in the United States. Behind the celebration there is a story that began more than a century ago, at the end of the First World War, and that New York has honored in its streets ever since.

In this guide we tell you where Veterans Day comes from, how New York’s parade became “America’s Parade,” and then everything practical for Wednesday, November 11, 2026: the parade, other ways to pay tribute, what is open and closed, and tips for travelers.

Last updated: October 19, 2026.

The Eleventh Hour of the Eleventh Day

On November 11, 1918, at 11 a.m., the armistice between the Allies and Germany took effect and the guns of the First World War fell silent. That moment, the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, became a symbol of peace around the world.

One year later, on November 11, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson marked the first Armistice Day in the United States to honor those who had served in the “war to end all wars.” In 1926 Congress asked for the date to be observed every year, and on May 13, 1938, November 11 officially became a federal holiday.

From Armistice Day to Veterans Day

After the Second World War and the Korean War, millions of new veterans had returned home. In 1945, World War II veteran Raymond Weeks proposed turning the day into a tribute to all veterans, not only those of the First World War. The idea took hold, and in 1954 President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the law, and the word “Armistice” was replaced with “Veterans.”

For a few years the date moved: from 1971 to 1977 it was observed on the fourth Monday of October under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. Because of its historical meaning, it returned to November 11 in 1978, and it has stayed there ever since, whatever day of the week it falls on.

It is often confused with Memorial Day, but they are different: Memorial Day, in May, remembers those who died in military service, while Veterans Day honors all who have served, living or deceased.

New York and Its Veterans: The Story of America’s Parade

New York has a long tradition of welcoming its soldiers home on Fifth Avenue. In 1919, the 369th Infantry Regiment, the famous Harlem Hellfighters, became the first New York regiment to parade as World War I veterans, and on September 10 of that same year the great Victory Parade welcomed General John J. Pershing and some 25,000 soldiers, who marched down Fifth Avenue from 107th Street to Washington Square.

For decades the American Legion organized the annual parade. In 1986, Vietnam veteran Vince McGowan founded the United War Veterans Council, which took over the parade the following year. Crowds grew again, especially in 1995 for the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II. Today it is known as “America’s Parade,” the country’s largest Veterans Day event, with around 20,000 participants and hundreds of thousands of spectators.

Veterans Day Parade 2026: Date, Route and Schedule

The 2026 parade will take place on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, on Fifth Avenue. At the time of writing, the organizers had not yet announced the start time or the exact route.

As a reference, in 2025 the day began with a wreath-laying ceremony in Madison Square Park at 10:55 a.m., just before the symbolic eleventh hour. The parade stepped off at 12:30 p.m. and marched up Fifth Avenue from 25th to 45th Street, with more than 280 marching units, about 20,000 marchers and 25 floats. It was also broadcast on television and streamed online.

Where to Watch the Parade

The best area is along Fifth Avenue between the Flatiron District and Midtown. Near Madison Square Park you can catch the start and the morning ceremony, while the stretch around 34th Street and the New York Public Library is usually a little less crowded. Arrive early for a spot at the barriers, and dress warmly, because you will be standing for hours in November weather.

When the flags pass, it is customary to stand, remove your hat and place your hand over your heart. And if you meet a veteran during the day, a simple “thank you for your service” is always appreciated.

Other Ways to Honor Veterans in New York

The Intrepid Museum, aboard a historic aircraft carrier on the Hudson River, holds its annual Veterans Day ceremony on November 11, 2026, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., with remarks and a commemorative wreath laid in the Hudson River. The ceremony is included with museum admission, and U.S. military members and veterans receive free admission to the museum.

What Is Open and Closed on Veterans Day

Veterans Day is a federal holiday, and in New York several services change. Based on 2025, public schools, post offices, the DMV, courts and public library branches close, and there is no mail delivery or trash collection. Alternate-side parking is suspended, but parking meters remain in effect. Most stores, restaurants, museums and attractions open as usual, and the subway runs normally.

Tips for Travelers on November 11

Plan your crossings: during the parade, Fifth Avenue and several side streets between the 20s and 40s are closed, so use the subway to move between the East and West Sides. If you have a reservation in Midtown, leave extra time. And if you visit the Intrepid, combine it with a walk along the Hudson River Greenway.

Explore New York With Local Guides

If you want to understand the city beyond the parade, our New York Contrasts Tour starts along the West Side Highway, passing the Intrepid and the Hudson River, before heading to the Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn with a Spanish-speaking guide. For a smaller group, there is the VIP Contrasts Tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Veterans Day in 2026?

On Wednesday, November 11, 2026. Veterans Day is always observed on November 11, whatever day of the week it falls on.

What time is the NYC Veterans Day Parade?

The 2026 schedule had not been announced at the time of writing. In 2025 the parade stepped off at 12:30 p.m., after a wreath-laying ceremony in Madison Square Park at 10:55 a.m.

What is the parade route?

The parade marches up Fifth Avenue. In 2025 it went from 25th to 45th Street. The 2026 route will be confirmed by the organizers.

Why is Veterans Day on November 11?

Because the armistice that ended the fighting of World War I took effect at 11 a.m. on November 11, 1918.

What is the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?

Veterans Day honors everyone who has served in the U.S. military, living or deceased. Memorial Day, in May, remembers those who died in service.

Is the subway running on Veterans Day?

Yes. The subway runs normally, although some streets around Fifth Avenue are closed during the parade.

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Sources

Sources: Wikipedia, Veterans Day and Veterans Day Parade (New York City); 6sqft, A history of the NYC Veterans Day Parade; United War Veterans Council, Watch the 2026 NYC Veterans Day Parade (uwvc.org); Gothamist, Veterans Day Parade: what to expect for the march along Fifth Avenue (2025); Intrepid Museum, Annual Veterans Day Ceremony and Veterans & Military (intrepidmuseum.org). Dates, times and routes are subject to change.

Real’s Tours NYC is not affiliated with the United War Veterans Council, the Intrepid Museum or any organization mentioned in this article. Dates, times and routes may change, so please confirm current information with the official organizers before you go.