Auburn, Washington is typically designated by the Veterans Day National Committee and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a Regional Site for the celebration of Veterans Day. The City of Auburn is proud to be a Vietnam War Commemorative Partner and considers it an honor and privilege to host this annual event. Auburn has hosted the Veterans Parade since 1965. Now in its 59th year, the parade has grown into one of the largest parades of its kind in the United States of America.

The purpose of Auburn’s Veterans Parade & Observance is to positively focus on honoring our country’s veterans and active military personnel. Through our parade, we focus recognition on congressionally recognized Veteran Service Organizations and their auxiliaries, the military and military reserve, National Guard and ROTC. The goals and purposes of Auburn’s Veterans Parade & Observance are to give honor to our country’s veterans and to their military missions of defending freedom around the world. View the Parade Rules & Regulations (PDF) to determine if your group is eligible to participate.

The 59th annual Veterans Parade will be held in Auburn on Saturday, November 9, 2024 starting at 11:00 AM. The parade typically boasts over 200 units and nearly 5,000 parade participants, including 20+ marching bands, military vehicles, veterans’ units, honor guards and more.

The parade route travels along Main Street from E Street to A Street NW/SW. The day-long activities (PDF) run from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Other related activities include:

Saturday, November 9
Community Breakfast
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Auburn Senior Activity Center, 808 Ninth Street SE

The breakfast (PDF) is co-sponsored by the American Legion Auburn Post #78 and the City of Auburn. Join us for the annual Veteran’s Parade Community Breakfast, held on Saturday, November 9 from 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM at the Auburn Senior Activity Center. The breakfast is $10/person and includes pancakes, eggs, ham, juice or coffee.

Saturday, November 9
Remembrance Ceremony and Lighting of the Flame
9:45 AM – 10:15 AM
Veterans Memorial Park, 411 E Street NE

The flame is lit and guarded through the night at the memorial at Veterans Memorial Park. Wreath placement, rifle salute, prayers and taps encompass this ceremony held prior to the parade.

Saturday, November 9
Auburn VFW Post 1741 Open House
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Auburn VFW, 130 W Main Street

This VFW Open House (PDF) is exclusively for Veterans and Active Duty Personnel. Come mix, meet and mingle with fellow Veterans! Food and refreshments will be served.

Saturday, November 9
Auburn Veterans Day Marching Band Competition
1:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Auburn Memorial Stadium, 801 Fourth Street NE

One of the most prestigious band competitions in the State! Watch the 20-25+ bands in the parade, then look on as they compete in the Field Competition later in the afternoon at Auburn Memorial Stadium. Admission charged for Field Competition.

Saturday, November 9
Auburn Noon Lions Veterans Luncheon
1:30 PM (doors open at 1:00 PM)
Merrill Gardens of Auburn, 18 First Street SE

The lunch program honors our Veterans, with special recognition given to our Dignitaries in attendance. The Governor’s Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee’s Outstanding Service to Veterans Award Recipients will be honored at the lunch, along with other special presentations. The luncheon is co-sponsored by the Auburn Noon Lions and the City of Auburn. This event has limited seating; we suggest making reservations (PDF) early.

 “Our Heroes | Our Parade” Banner Tribute Program

This program was created to recognize and pay tribute to the brave men and women in Auburn who are serving, have served, or have given their life to our country in the United States Armed Forces. It also provides an opportunity for individuals, businesses and Veteran Service Organizations to support those who served by sponsoring a banner in downtown Auburn. Banner Tribute Program Application Forms (PDF) are accepted thru Friday, August 23.