Honor Our Heroes: Veterans Day 2025 in the Bay Area

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11th, is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by U.S. military members. This year, the San Francisco Bay Area provides numerous opportunities for locals to honor veterans, reflect on the holiday’s message of peace, and participate in community events designed to show gratitude.

Commemorating Service: The Spirit of Veterans Day

Veterans Day traces its roots to the armistice that ended World War I in 1918, a day dedicated to global peace and mutual understanding. Beyond parades and ceremonies, it’s a call to acknowledge the profound contributions of all who have served. In the Bay Area, this recognition comes alive through various observances, from solemn ceremonies to vibrant community gatherings.

For a deeper connection to the region’s military heritage, consider visiting historical sites on the San Francisco Presidio campus, such as the San Francisco National Cemetery, the Korean War Memorial, and the World War II West Coast Memorial.

Bay Area Veterans Day Events 2025 Highlights

San Francisco Area Celebrations

• S.F. Veterans Day Parade: A historic parade featuring marching color guards and bands. Starts on North Point Street, proceeds along the Embarcadero, and concludes at Aquatic Park with an ice cream celebration at Ghirardelli Square. When: Sunday, Nov. 9, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: North Point St., S.F. Cost: Free. More Info
• VetsinTech Veterans’ Day Gala: An evening celebrating service members with a cocktail reception, silent auction, dinner, live entertainment, and awards. When: Friday, Nov. 7, 6-11 p.m. Where: Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel, S.F. Cost: $100-$500, reservations required. More Info
• Veterans Day Interfaith Service: A spiritual service at the historic Presidio Main Post chapel, with a keynote address and available livestream. When: Tuesday, Nov. 11, 11 a.m.-noon. Where: Presidio Chapel, S.F. Cost: Free, reservations required. More Info

East Bay Observances

• Hometown Heroes Veterans Day Breakfast (Dublin): An annual family-style lunch with live music and a recognition ceremony. When: Friday, Nov. 7, 8:30-10 a.m. Where: Shannon Community Center, Dublin. Cost: $35-$321.96, veterans free; registration required. More Info
• East Bay Veterans Day Celebration (Oakland): An event by Swords to Plowshares featuring Congresswoman Lateefah Simon, a resource fair, food, and drinks. When: Friday, Nov. 7, 4-6 p.m. Where: Veterans Memorial Building, Oakland. Cost: Free, reservations required. More Info
• Goodguys 34th Fuel Curve Autumn Get-Together (Pleasanton): A classic car show with a Veterans Day ceremony, color guard, car parade, marketplace, and family activities. When: Saturday-Sunday, Nov. 8-9, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton. Cost: $10-$30, active/retired military free with ID. More Info
• Veterans Day on the USS Hornet (Alameda): Features a color guard presentation, live music, and a wreath-laying ceremony. When: Tuesday, Nov. 11, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Where: USS Hornet, Alameda. Cost: Included with museum admission, veterans free. More Info
• Walnut Creek Veterans Day Ceremony: The city of Walnut Creek and the Walnut Creek Concert Band host a ceremony and concert. When: Tuesday, Nov. 11, 11 a.m.-noon. Where: Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek. Cost: Free. More Info

Marin & South Bay Gatherings

• Marin Veterans Day Ceremony (San Rafael): A ceremony led by Marin County United Veterans Council president Sean Stephens, with speakers, refreshments, live performances, and a color guard. When: Tuesday, Nov. 11, 9 a.m. Where: Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium, San Rafael. Cost: Free. More Info
• 2025 Veterans Day Sail (Sausalito): A maritime tour of the San Francisco Bay aboard the brigantine Matthew Turner. When: Tuesday, Nov. 11, 9:45 a.m.-1 p.m. Where: Bay Model Visitors Center, Sausalito. Cost: $49-$99, reservations required. More Info
• San Jose Veterans Day Parade: A Salute to Our WWII Veterans: One of Northern California’s largest parades, honoring the “Heroes of World War II.” A commemorative ceremony precedes the parade at Plaza de Cesar Chavez at 11 a.m. When: Tuesday, Nov. 11, Noon-2 p.m. (parade). Where: Market Street, Downtown San Jose. Cost: Free. More Info
• Petaluma Veterans Day Parade: Salute to the Military Women: Starts with live music at noon, parade at 1 p.m., concluding at Walnut Park with a service, flyover, and speakers. When: Tuesday, Nov. 11, Noon-3 p.m. Where: Walnut Park, Petaluma. Cost: Free. More Info

Major Bay Area Veterans Day Parades 2025

Frequently Asked Questions About Veterans Day in the Bay Area

• When is Veterans Day 2025?
  Veterans Day is observed on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. Note that many community events are scheduled for the preceding weekend.
• What is the primary purpose of Veterans Day?
  Veterans Day honors all military veterans, both living and deceased, who have served in the U.S. armed forces, recognizing their dedication and sacrifice.
• Are any events free for veterans or active military personnel?
  Yes, several events, such as the Goodguys Car Show and entry to the USS Hornet, offer free admission for active and retired military members with a valid ID. Always confirm details with individual event organizers.
• Which Bay Area events are most suitable for families?
  Family-friendly options include the Goodguys Autumn Get-Together in Pleasanton, the Dublin Veterans Day Open House, and the large parades in San Jose, San Francisco, and Petaluma.

As Veterans Day 2025 approaches, we encourage all Bay Area residents to find a meaningful way to participate, whether by attending a local event, visiting a historical site, or simply taking a moment to express gratitude to the veterans in your life.

Honor Our Heroes Veterans Day in the Bay Area