Veterans Day Events In Chicago

CHICAGO, IL — Veterans Day is a time for Americans to thank and honor those who have served honorably in the military in wartime and peacetime. The city's main event, "Chicago Honors America's Veterans" will be held in front of the Doughboy statue Nov. 11 at Soldier Field. The program will include a wreath laying ceremony, a 21-gun salute, “Taps” and the “Armed Forces Medley.”

Free parking is available at the Waldron Parking Deck; exit at 18th Street from Lake Shore Drive.

Gold Star Mothers named Soldier Field to honor the men lost in World War I. The Doughboy statue, originally placed in Garfield Park, was restored and installed in Soldier Field as part of the stadium renovation. Doughboy is an informal term for a member of the United States Army of Marine Corps, especially members of the American Expeditionary Forces in World War I.

Here are some other Veterans Day events in Chicago:

Chill William's Veterans Day 5k - The veterans relief organization is hosting a run/walk in Chicago in support of vets. The run kicks off at 8 a.m. Nov. 11 on Lakeshore Drive's running trail at 39th Street.

The Chicago History Museum Presents Veterans Day - The museum is hosting a family-friendly program featuring storytelling, hands-on activities, and discussion. The event will be held Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. at the museum. Inspired by the museum's newest exhibition, Making Mainbocher: The First American Couturier, visitors can discover the designer’s life, legacy, and military contributions as they pay tribute to Chicago veterans through the years. Museum admission is free for veterans and their families on this day and always free for active duty military personnel. I.D. required.

LCINC Presents Veterans Appreciation Day - From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 11, veterans will receive discounted haircuts at Legendary Cuts Inc. at 1405 W. 111th St.

Veteran's Day Musical and Award Luncheon - an event dedicated to veterans and their families, hosted by the Arthur Lockhart Resource Institute. The luncheon will feature musical performances, free care packages, and a free raffle. The event will take place Nov. 18 at noon at the Healing Temple Church - 4941 West Chicago Avenue.

Originally known as Armistice Day—as declared by President Woodrow Wilson—Veterans Day was created to mark the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. Following World War II, it was declared a day to honor all veterans and in 1954, renamed Veterans Day by Congress.

Image via City of Chicago