Veterans Day Celebrations Hit Hard by Government Shutdown

Sat Nov 08 2025 04:21:18 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

This year's Veterans Day is overshadowed by the federal government shutdown, affecting parades, ceremonies, and military family support.

Across the U.S., Veterans Day events are facing cancellations and disruptions due to the ongoing government shutdown. In California, the Riverside National Cemetery's tradition of laying flags at gravesites has been halted due to the lack of federal resources necessary for the event. Many communities are still organizing gatherings but are relying heavily on volunteers to compensate for missing federal support. Some events, like the annual Veterans Day parade in Detroit, will push forward with fewer resources, while others like the event at Fort Sam Houston Cemetery will be salvaged by local officials stepping in. Despite these challenges, there are initiatives to support veterans, such as providing Thanksgiving dinners in lieu of traditional parades.

This year's Veterans Day is unlike any other, as the longest federal government shutdown disrupts events meant to honor those who served. In California, the tradition of placing flags at Riverside National Cemetery is canceled due to lack of resources needed for event organization.

Normally, thousands gather to honor veterans, but federal regulations are preventing many celebrations nationwide. Organizers of various events, like the popular New York Veterans Day Parade and Arlington National Cemetery observances, express concerns over inadequate military participation and logistical support due to the shutdown.

While some events are completely scrapped like the Texas National Cemetery ceremony, others are adjusting plans, with local leaders stepping in to ensure veterans still receive recognition. Examples of unique approaches include substituting traditional parades with dinners for veterans as organizations aim to turn setbacks into opportunities to foster community support.

Despite the challenges, Americans are finding ways to celebrate their veterans and maintain the integrity of the commemorative spirit of this important day.