Veterans Day 2025
Veterans Day 2025 is observed on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 - a U.S. federal holiday honoring all who have served in the armed forces.
Originally Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to honor American veterans of every conflict.
About Veterans Day
Veterans Day is a U.S. federal holiday that pays tribute to all American veterans - living or deceased - who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Unlike Memorial Day (which honors those who died in service), Veterans Day thanks all veterans for their service.
The date - November 11 - is fixed by law, regardless of the day of the week, because of its connection to the Armistice that ended fighting in World War I.
History of Veterans Day
World War I officially ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, when an armistice between the Allied nations and Germany took effect. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day in 1919.
In 1938, Congress made Armistice Day a legal federal holiday. After World War II and the Korean War, Congress amended the law in 1954 to replace 'Armistice' with 'Veterans,' broadening the holiday to honor all American veterans.
What's Open and Closed on Veterans Day 2025
- Closed: Federal government offices, federal courts, U.S. Postal Service (no mail delivery), most banks, and the bond markets (NYSE/Nasdaq are open)
- Mostly closed: Many state and local government offices, most public schools and universities
- Usually open: Major retailers, supermarkets, restaurants, and most private businesses (often with veterans' discounts)
- Operating: UPS and FedEx (regular delivery)
Ways to Observe Veterans Day
- Attend a Veterans Day parade or wreath-laying ceremony
- Observe a moment of silence at 11:00 AM
- Visit a veterans' memorial or national cemetery
- Donate to or volunteer with a veterans' service organization
- Thank a veteran in your family or community
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Veterans Day 2025?
Veterans Day 2025 is on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
Is Veterans Day a federal holiday?
Yes. Veterans Day is one of 11 U.S. federal holidays.
Is mail delivered on Veterans Day?
No. The U.S. Postal Service does not deliver regular mail on Veterans Day. UPS and FedEx generally operate on a normal schedule.
What is the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?
Veterans Day honors all who have served in the U.S. military. Memorial Day specifically honors those who died while serving.