11 Ways To Observe Veterans Day In Tampa Bay

Veterans Day is coming up on Tuesday, Nov. 11, with several opportunities around Tampa Bay to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, both in times of war and peace.

Originally called Armistice Day, Veterans Day is always observed on Nov. 11 to reflect the signing of the armistice ending World War I at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. The observance was changed to Veterans Day in 1954 to include veterans who served in World War II and the Korean War.

Are you planning an event yet this year? Feature it, so nearby readers see it all across Patch — including in roundups like this!

Here are some upcoming Veterans Day events you shouldn’t miss:

Manatee County Stand Down

• When: Nov. 1, 8 a.m.
• Where: Manatee County Fairgrounds in Palmetto
• What: Enjoy live music, food and fun as Veterans and others in the community are connected to valuable resources. More than 50 agencies offering social services, health care, career assistance and veteran support will be in attendance.

The Soldier’s Lens Exhibit Opening Reception

• When: Nov. 6, 5:30 p.m.
• Where: Florida Museum of the Photographic Arts, 1630 E. 7th Ave., Tampa
• What: This curated exhibition showcases the original perspectives of active-duty service members, veterans and their families.

The Veterans Run

• When: Nov. 8, 7 a.m.
• Where: race begins at Ben T. Davis Park, Tampa
• What: There will be a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and 15.5-mile option for this race along the Courtney Campbell Causeway Trail. Post-race celebrations take place at Whiskey Joe’s. Some proceeds from the event benefit OTS 4 VETS, a foundation that aids transitioning servicemembers as they learn how to adapt from military to civilian life.

James A. Haley Veterans Hospital Veterans Day Parade

• When: Nov. 8, 9 a.m. to noon
• Where: The parade begins at the hospital, 13000 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa, and ends with a ceremony in front of Fisher House II in Tampa
• What: Viewing stands will be on Richard Silver Way across the street from the Fisher House II.

Dunedin Red, White and Blue Runs

• When: Nov. 9, 8:10 a.m.
• Where: Dunedin Hale Center, 330 Douglas Ave., Dunedin
• What: These Veterans Day 5K, 10K and kids dash runs will celebrate veterans from across the world who have served and are still serving the US military.

Lakewood Ranch Tribute to Heroes Block Party & Parade

• When: Nov. 9, 2 to 5 p.m.
• Where: Lakewood Ranch Main Street
• What: Enjoy a lively block party featuring patriotic entertainment, festive floats, delicious food and drinks, fun activities for kids and more. The Tribute to Heroes Parade will begin at 4 p.m., showcasing a procession of community groups, marching bands and veteran groups.

Kiwanis Club of Sarasota Breakfast

• When: Nov. 10, 7 to 9 am.
• Where: Carlisle Inn, 3727 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota
• What: The keynote speaker of this special breakfast honoring veterans is Ron Turner, supervisor of elections, proud veteran of the United States Army, and a member of the Disabled American Veterans.

St. Petersburg Veterans Day Ceremony

• When: Nov. 11, 9 a.m.
• Where: Veterans Memorial at Williams Park in St. Petersburg
• What: Local veterans will be recognized by the mayor and city leaders.

Sarasota Veterans Day Parade

• When: Nov. 11, 10 a.m.
• Where: downtown Sarasota
• What: This annual parade marches through downtown Sarasota and ends with a ceremony and speakers, including keynote Michael Bennett, a local U.S. Navy veteran and state advocate for veterans’ causes.

Manatee County Veterans Day Ceremony and Parade

• When: Nov. 11, 11 a.m.
• Where: The parade will begin at the Manatee County Fairgrounds at 11:30 a.m. and end at Sutton Park. A memorial service takes place at the park at 11 a.m.
• What: The parade will feature local veterans organizations, JROTC, high schools, bands and other groups.

New Port Richey Veterans Day Parade

• When: Nov. 11, 5 p.m.
• Where: Orange Lake, Circle Blvd., New Port Richey
• What: This parade will feature local veterans, military units, marching bands, community organizations and more.