FORT SMITH, Ark — On November 11 every year, Veterans Day is known as the time to honor those who have served in the United States military.
In 1918, an armistice between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Veterans Day came from that date, November 11, which is why the day always falls on that date each year despite what day of the week it falls on.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), "The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good."
To honor and celebrate Veterans across Northwest Arkansas, here is a list of events across the River Valley:
Veterans Day Events:
Fort Smith
Fort Smith Veteran's Day Parade
- When: Saturday, Nov. 11, starting at noon.
- Where: Chaffee Crossing Historic District (7313 Terry St.)
- Cost: Free
Grace Men's Ministry offers free breakfast to anybody, whether they've served or not
- When: Saturday, Nov. 11, starting at 9 a.m.
- Where: Grace Men's Ministry
- Cost: Free
Fee Free day at the Fort Smith National Historic Site
- When: Saturday, Nov. 11, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Where: Fort Smith National Historic Site (301 Parker Ave.)
- Cost: Free
Free admission at the U.S. Marshal's Museum for veterans
- When: Saturday, Nov. 11, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Where: U.S. Marshal's Museum (789 Riverfront Dr.)
- Cost: Free (for veterans)
Free admission at the Clayton House Museum
- When:(For All Veterans) Saturday, Nov. 11, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- When: (For Marines) Friday, Nov. 10, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Where: Clayton House Museum (514 North 6th St.)
- Cost: Free (for veterans)
Van Buren
The 21st Annual Van Buren Veteran's Day Parade
- What: The parade will travel through historic downtown Van Buren, with lunch provided at Freedom Park for Veterans and their families.
- When: Sunday, Nov. 12, at 2 p.m., entertainment begins at 1 p.m. at Freedom Park
- Where: Main Street in Van Buren
- Cost: Free
- For more information call (479)652-3374 or email VBVetParade@Gmail.com.
- Cost: Free
Clarksville
Veteran's Day Car Show
- When: Saturday, Nov. 11, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Where: 215 West Main Street
- Cost: Free
Russellville
Pope County Veteran's Day Parade
- When: Friday, Nov. 10, 2023, 4 p.m.
- Where: Downtown Russellville on Main Street
- Cost: Free
Know of an event that's not on the list? Send an email to news@kfsm.com or send a text to (479) 785-5000.
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