Veterans Day events 2026
Veterans Day, November 11, is a day to acknowledge, express appreciation, and celebrate the brave men and women who have served our country. When the date falls midweek, like this year, events for the holiday are often held the weekend before or after, so more people can participate.
Douglas County Veterans Day Tribute – Castle Rock
The annual Douglas County Veterans Day Tribute will be November 7 at 11:00 a.m. at Veterans Monument Plaza, 301 Wilcox Street. Coordinated by the Douglas County Veterans Service Office, the tribute includes the color guard from American Legion Harry C. Miller Post 1187, guest speaker Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly, the Castle Rock Fire Department Pipes and Drums, special music by Michael MacFarlane, and more. For more information, visit facebook.com/DCVeteransService and douglasco.gov/veterans-service-office.
Veterans Concert – Highlands Ranch
The Highlands Ranch Community Association hosts its Veterans Concert November 9, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 Gateway Drive. It is an evening of patriotic music, tributes, and community spirit. To learn more, visit hrcaonline.org and search “veterans.”
Veterans Day Fireworks – Parker
Weather permitting, the Town of Parker will host a fireworks show November 11, starting at 7 p.m. at Salisbury Park, 11920 Motsenbocker Road. As well as honoring those who have served, the show recognizes America’s 250th, Colorado’s 150th and the Town of Parker’s 45th anniversaries. For full details and suggested viewing locations, visit parkerco.gov/2461.
Veterans Day Run, Festival and Parade – Denver
The Colorado Veterans Project is hosting the 17th Annual Denver Veterans Day Run, Festival and Parade November 14 at Denver’s City Park, 2001 Colorado Boulevard. For full information and run times, visit denverveteransday.com.
- The Veterans Day Run registration opens at 7:30 a.m. This memorial fun run along City Park running trails consists of 5K and 10K runs/walks and the 10K Rippetoe Rucksack Challenge in honor of Army Captain Russell Brian Rippetoe of Arvada, who died while offering aid April 3, 2003. 100% of donations go to helping Colorado veterans. To register online beforehand, visit runsignup.com/Race/CO/Denver/DenverVeteransDay.
- The Veterans Day Festival and Beer Garden opens at 9:30 a.m., with vendors and something for everyone, and including live music that will start when the parade ends.
- The Veterans Day Parade begins at 10:30 a.m. and follows a route that circles through City Park. Participants include retired military personnel, VFW Legions, National Guard contingents, veterans organizations, ROTC, local high schools, classic and vintage car clubs, and more.
For more information about support and services for Douglas County veterans, visit douglasco.gov/veterans-service-office, dcvmf.org and heroeshallfoundation.org/services.
By Susan Helton; courtesy photos
