Veterans Day Events In Pierce County: Where To Go

TACOMA, WA — Veterans Day is almost here, and there are plenty of events to mark the occasion this year in Pierce County.

Veterans Day, commemorated annually on Nov. 11, was first celebrated in 1919 to honor those who fought in World War I. It was initially called Armistice Day, but was renamed Veterans Day in 1954.

Here are a few noteworthy Veterans Day events happening this Thursday across the South Sound.

Take your car to a drive-in ceremony in Gig Harbor

The Gig Harbor Veterans Recognition Committee will be hosting a drive-in event at the HomeGoods Parking lot of the Uptown Shopping Center, reports Gig Harbor Now. The event will feature a performance by the Navy Band Northwest, a short patriotic film, and an appearance by KING 5 host and Peninsula High Grad Greg Copeland.

The event begins at 11:30 a.m. but asks that visitors register in advance.

Visit Auburn's long-running Veterans Day parade.

Technically Auburn is in King County, but it isn't too far from Pierce County, and this is one event you don't to miss. Auburn has been hosting a Veterans Day Parade and Observance for 56 years straight, and this year will be no exception. The big show kicks off at 11 a.m. and runs down Auburn's Main Street.

Take in some history at the Washington State History Museum

Tacoma's Washington State History Museum will be open Thursday, and offering free admission to retired and active-duty military and up to five of their family members with military ID.

Watch Joint Base Lewis-McChord's Veterans Day 2021 film

Normally, JBLM would try to host a large Veterans Day event, but because of the pandemic they've had to make due this year by producing the video below, featuring Command Sgt. Maj. Waylon Petty, JBLM’s command sergeant major, the America’s I Corps Rock Band, and more.

Check out a state park

A big event not for you? The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission has you covered. In honor of Veterans Day, all state parks and recreation lands will not be requiring Discover Passes — meaning visitors can check out all those parks for free.

Don't check out city offices

Finally, almost all city offices will be totally shut down Thursday in observance of Veterans Day. The same is true of most banks.

Got any other suggestions? Let us know in the comments below.