Jump to: Veterans Day Events | Pre & Post-Veterans Day Events
San Antonio’s military ties run deep, and Veterans Day offers a chance to recognize the people behind that history. From the annual downtown parade to local ceremonies where families, veterans, and neighbors gather, November brings several opportunities to show your support and learn more about the people who have served.
Planning to attend an event this year? Our guide to Veterans Day San Antonio 2026 highlights the parades, tributes, and community gatherings worth adding to your calendar.
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Key Day-Of Veterans Day San Antonio 2026 Events
2026 Veterans Day Program
Mark Veterans Day with a special ceremony at the National Museum of the Pacific War’s Pacific Combat Zone Amphitheater in Fredericksburg.
The half-hour program honors the service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, bringing the community together to reflect on their dedication and courage.
The ceremony will feature keynote remarks from John M. Bird, Vice Admiral, U.S. Navy (Retired), with the color guard provided by the Alamo Battalion of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps.
When: Wednesday, November 11, 2026 | 11 a.m.–11:30 a.m.
Where: Pacific Combat Zone Amphitheater, 508 East Austin Street, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
How Much: Free
Pre & Post-Veterans Day SA Parade and Community Events
Veterans Day Ceremony
Palo Alto College invites veterans, active-duty military personnel, students, employees, alumni, and community members to gather for its annual Veterans Day Ceremony.
Check-in begins at 10 a.m., ahead of the 11 a.m. ceremony in the Ozuna Legacy Room. After the program, guests are invited to stay for food and refreshments.
When: Tuesday, November 10, 2026 | Check-in: 10 a.m.; ceremony: 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Where: Palo Alto College, 1400 W Villaret Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78224
How Much: Free
SA Veterans Day at Hemisfair
Image credit: Hemisfair
Spend an afternoon celebrating America’s veterans at the sixth annual SA Veterans Day at Hemisfair in downtown San Antonio.
This free, family-friendly gathering honors veterans of today and tomorrow with live music, entertainment, and interactive activities for all ages.
Along with live performances, the celebration features food, drinks, and opportunities to connect with organizations that support veterans and provide valuable services. Bring the family, enjoy the entertainment, and join San Antonio in expressing gratitude to the men and women who have served the country.
When: Saturday, November 14, 2026 | 12 p.m. –6 p.m.
Where: Hemisfair, San Antonio, TX 78205
How Much: Free
Veterans Day Ceremony at St. Mary’s
Join St. Mary’s University for its annual Veterans Day Ceremony, hosted by the university’s Veteran and Military Affairs office in partnership with ROTC.
Held at the Barrett Memorial Bell Tower, the ceremony brings the campus community together to honor the men and women who have served in the U.S. military.
When: Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Where: Barrett Memorial Bell Tower, St. Mary’s University, One Camino Santa Maria, San Antonio, TX 78228
How Much: Free
Veterans Day Parade
Image credit: United States Military Veterans Parade Association Facebook
Head to downtown San Antonio for the annual Veterans Day Parade, presented by USAA and organized by the United States Military Parade Association.
The procession brings veterans, active-duty military personnel, military families, and patriotic community members together for a public tribute to those who have served the nation.
Expect a colorful display of community pride, with floats, marching bands, military units, and local organizations honoring the courage and sacrifice of America’s service members.
The parade begins at Milam Park at noon and travels along historic Houston Street, giving spectators a chance to cheer on participants and show their appreciation for the military community.
When: Saturday, November 7, 2026 | 12 p.m.
Where: Milam Park, 500 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78207
How Much: Free
Salute to Service: Veterans Day Celebration
Celebrate the service and contributions of America’s veterans at the Salute to Service: Veterans Day Celebration hosted by Veteran Unlimited at Women Unlimited Headquarters in San Antonio.
Connect with veteran-owned businesses, explore entrepreneurial resources, and meet organizations working to strengthen the local veteran community. The celebration will also feature a live musical performance by Liz Garcia, a Tejano Music Awards Best Artist.
When: Saturday, November 7, 2026 | 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Where: Women Unlimited Headquarters, 322 El Paso Street, San Antonio, TX 78207
How Much: Free
Celebrate America’s Military (CAM)
San Antonio’s military community takes center stage during Celebrate America’s Military (CAM), an annual series organized by the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce.
Marking its 55th year in 2026, CAM recognizes active-duty, Guard, and Reserve personnel across all military branches, along with veterans and their families.
The November program features several signature events. The Spirit of America Dinner on November 6 at the Witte Museum opens the celebration with a formal evening of dinner, entertainment, and a keynote address.
On November 10, the Veterans Legacy Luncheon, hosted by Cavender Auto Group, highlights veterans’ experiences and contributions through a panel discussion.
The Enlisted Appreciation Reception at SeaWorld on November 12 recognizes the service and leadership of enlisted personnel. Additional community events hosted by military organizations, nonprofits, businesses, and civic groups take place throughout November.
When: Friday, November 6 –12, 2026
Where: Multiple venues across Greater San Antonio, TX
How Much: Varies
San Antonio Veterans Day 5K Run/ Walk
Honor a veteran who has made a difference in your life at the San Antonio Veterans Day 5K Run/Walk. The race begins and ends at Milam Park in downtown San Antonio.
Each participant’s race bib includes a space to write the name of a veteran they’re running or walking in honor of, making the event a personal tribute as well as a community celebration.
After completing the 5K, stick around for live music from SAPD Alamo City Heat, local vendors, commemorative medals, and festivities at the park.
Participants and their families can also continue the day’s celebrations by attending the United States Military Veterans Parade in downtown San Antonio.
Bib pickup is available at Viva! Cocina Patino and Bar on November 5 and 6, with race-day pickup at Milam Park.
When: Saturday, November 7, 2026 | Race-day bib pickup: 8:30–9:30 a.m
Where: Milam Park, 500 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78207
How Much: $25
Veterans Day Hike at Government Canyon
This guided community hike offers a chance to honor those who have served while enjoying the camaraderie of others with military connections. Participants are welcome to bring flags, photographs, or memorabilia to share during the gathering.
The hike covers approximately three to five miles over uneven terrain with moderate elevation changes, so come prepared for a moderately challenging outdoor outing.
The activity is open to ages 14 and older, with minors required to attend alongside a parent or legal guardian. No pets are permitted, and space is limited to the first 15 people who check in with the hike leader.
Registration for the hike itself isn’t required, but the park’s regular entrance fee applies. Arrive by 8:45 a.m. to park in Lot A or B and meet at the Visitor Center near the Rainwater Tower before the program begins promptly at 9 a.m.
Bring at least two liters of water per person, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and comfortable hiking shoes or boots.
When: Wednesday, November 11, 2026 | 9–11 a.m.
Where: Government Canyon State Natural Area, 12861 Galm Rd, San Antonio, TX 78254
How Much: Park entrance fee applies
Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony New Braunfels
Image credit: City of New Braunfels – Government
Join the New Braunfels community downtown for its annual Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony, a morning dedicated to recognizing the local veterans who have served the nation.
The celebration begins with a ceremony at Main Plaza at 9 a.m., followed by the parade at 10 a.m. Local veterans’ organizations, community floats, nonprofit groups, and other participants will come together to show their appreciation for America’s service members.
This year’s grand marshal and guest speaker is Chief Warrant Officer 5 (Ret.) Gene Forester, a New Braunfels native who served in the Texas National Guard for 44 years. Forester advanced from junior enlisted ranks to the highest warrant officer rank and has continued serving his community through volunteer work and substitute teaching since retiring.
When: Saturday, November 7, 2026 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Where: Main Plaza, 500 Main Plaza, New Braunfels, TX 78130
How Much: Free
Greater Randolph Area Veterans Parade in Universal City
Image credit: City of Universal City – Government
Celebrate more than five decades of military appreciation at the 56th annual Universal City Veterans Parade.
Organized by the Greater Randolph Area Veterans Council, this long-running San Antonio-area tradition brings together military organizations, schools, marching groups, first responders, community organizations, and local businesses to honor veterans of every U.S. war.
More than 40 participating groups are expected to take part. Watch the procession travel along Pat Booker Road from Universal City Boulevard to Byrd Boulevard, or head to the grandstands at Randolph Plaza for a place to view the parade.
When: Saturday, November 2026 | 10:30 a.m.
Where: Pat Booker Road, from Universal City Boulevard to Byrd Boulevard; grandstands at Randolph Plaza, 934 Pat Booker Road, Universal City, TX
How Much: Free
2026 Helotes Veterans Day Concert
Spend a Sunday afternoon enjoying patriotic music at the City of Helotes’ annual Veterans Day concert, themed “Duty, Honor & Country.”
The Helotes Area Community Band will perform a special program honoring the men and women who have served in the U.S. military.
The event is open to everyone, and both admission and parking are free.
When: Sunday, November 8, 2026 | 3–5 p.m.
Where: Helotes Fire Department, 12951 Bandera Road, Helotes, TX 78023
How Much: Free
Know Before You Go: Veterans Day in San Antonio
San Antonio’s Veterans Day events aren’t limited to downtown. Depending on the year, you may also find ceremonies and community gatherings in nearby places such as Universal City, Helotes, and New Braunfels.
If you plan to attend a downtown parade, check the route and road closures before leaving. Parking near the River Walk and parade route can fill up quickly, so arrive early enough to park and find a viewing spot without rushing.
Common Questions About Veterans Day in San Antonio
Which restaurants offer free meals to veterans in San Antonio?
National chains and local restaurants sometimes offer free meals or discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel on November 11.
Participating locations and offers change each year, so check the restaurant’s official announcement before making plans. Some deals require a military ID, Veteran Health Identification Card, or other proof of service; accepted documents vary by business.
Will Veterans Day be observed on Monday in 2026?
No. Veterans Day is observed on November 11 every year, regardless of the day of the week. In 2026, it falls on Wednesday, November 11.
Some employers or organizations may offer a different day off, but the federal holiday itself remains on November 11.
Where is the main Veterans Day parade in San Antonio?
San Antonio’s downtown Veterans Day Parade is a major annual event, but the confirmed starting point and route can vary.
Check the official 2026 event announcement for the parade’s location, start time, and street closures before heading downtown. Nearby communities may also hold their own parades and ceremonies, giving you alternatives if you prefer to celebrate closer to home.
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