COLUMBUS, Ohio — Several communities across central Ohio are hosting parades and ceremonies this weekend in honor of Veterans Day.
Veterans Day is always observed on Nov. 11 each year and is a time for the country to recognize and honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve.
Here are some local communities holding events in honor of Veterans Day:
*Click on the city name to be redirected to its website for more details on the event.
Dublin — Monday, Nov. 11, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The City of Dublin is hosting a Veterans Day ceremony at Dublin Veterans Park. This event honors all men and women who served our country.
Gahanna — Monday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m.
A brick dedication and ceremony will happen at the Gahanna Veterans Memorial (73 W. Johnstown Rd.) on Veterans Day.
Grove City — Monday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m.
The American Legion Paschall Post 164 and Veterans of Foreign Wars 8198 is hosting the annual Veterans Day service at Town Center Park (3359 Park St.).
Hilliard — Sunday, Nov. 10, at 2 p.m. [CANCELED due to upcoming inclement weather]
Westerville — Monday, Nov. 11, 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
The city is hosting its annual Veterans Breakfast at the Renaissance Westerville Hotel (409 Altair Pkwy) in the Admiral Ballroom. Tickets are available for purchase for $15 at the Westerville Community Center. Veterans who show valid identification will receive free tickets at the same location.
Earlier that morning in Westerville, there will be a sunrise wreath-laying ceremony at Westerville Veterans Memorial, located inside the Westerville Sports Complex. The ceremony is free and open to the public.
Other deals and events for veterans in central Ohio
National Veterans Memorial and Museum — A Veterans Day ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11. The Ohio State University President and U.S. Navy Veteran Ted Carter will be the keynote speaker. Veterans Day admission tickets are discounted to $5.
On Nov. 10, the NVMM will hold the Ohio MilVets Veterans Day Rally from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The rally will feature entertainment, Veteran-related vendors and a free meal for all Veterans. Every attendee will get discounted or complimentary admission to both the NVMM and COSI. Attendees can also bring a toy for U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s “Toys for Tots” program.
Central Ohio Transit Authority — COTA is waiving fares for Veterans and active military members on Monday for Veterans Day.
Why is Veterans Day on November 11?
During World War I, the fighting ended on Nov. 11, 1918 when an armistice went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.
Nearly twenty years later, legislation passed on May 13, 1938, officially making Nov. 11 of each year a federal holiday, originally known as "Armistice Day," the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs explains on its website.
The holiday was first created to honor veterans of World War I, but then in 1954, the original legislation was amended to change the holiday's name to Veterans Day, to honor American veterans of all wars.
For a list of store and business closures for the national holiday, click here.