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 58th 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.
We are currently planning for the 58th annual Veterans Parade to be held in Auburn on Saturday, November 11, 2023 starting at 11:00 AM. The parade typically boasts over 200 units and nearly 6,000 parade participants, including 25+ 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.
Other related activities include:
Saturday, November 11
Community Breakfast
7:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Auburn Senior Activity Center, 808 Ninth Street SE
Purchase tickets early for this year's Veterans Parade Community Breakfast, held on Saturday, November 5 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. The breakfast is co-sponsored by the American Legion Auburn Post #78 and the City of Auburn.
Saturday, November 11
Remembrance Ceremony and Lighting of the Flame
9:45 AM - 10:15 AM
Veterans Memorial Park, 411 E Street SE
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 11
Auburn VFW Post 1741 Open House
12:00 PM
Auburn VFW, 130 W Main Street
This Open House is exclusively for Veterans and Active Duty Personnel. Come mix, meet and mingle with fellow Veterans! Food and refreshments will be served.
Saturday, November 11
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 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 11
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.
"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. The City will begin accepting applications in July of 2023.
Take some time to thank a Veteran for their service and sacrifice.
Official Forms and Helpful Information:
There is absolutely no parade parking in local business' parking lots. Please be courteous when parking in the areas surrounding the parade route.
For dining and lodging information, please visit www.exploreauburn.com.
Contact Information:
Kristy Pachciarz, Special Events Coordinator
253-931-3043