memoriala1Veterans’ Day is just around the corner, so now is the time to start planning for any special events or gifts you would like to give the veterans in your life. Each year, Veterans’ Day is celebrated on November 11th. This blog post provides background on this special day of remembrance and offers some information on some special Veterans’ Day celebrations in San Diego this year.

Origins and Observance of Veterans’ Day

Veterans’ Day came about as a way to commemorate the anniversary of the signing of the armistice, which ended World War I. The armistice was signed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 to end World War I. In 1926, the U.S. Congress recognized it as a special day of prayer and thanksgiving, and it finally became a legal holiday in 1938.memoriala2

Now, Veterans’ Day is a day for all veterans of all wars, including World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and the Iraq War. Observances typically include parades and church services over the weekend while many schools and businesses close in respect of this special holiday.

San Diego Veterans’ Day Events

Events for Veterans Day are planned for the San Diego area, including some notable parades.memoriala3

First, there is actually an entire week of Veteran celebrations from November 10 through November 16th.  The San Diego Veterans Day Parade is produced by Veterans Week San Diego and is free of charge to view or to participate.   The 2013 Parade includes “A Tribute To Vietnam Veterans” during the USA 50thYear Commemorative of the Vietnam War 1962 – 1975.  The parade kicks off at 11am on November 11th. A route is available here.romantic4

Flowers for Veterans’ Day

Many Veterans’ Day celebrations include flowers as decorations and as gifts of thanks. At Allen’s Flowers and Plants of San Diego, we have a wide range of patriotic flower arrangements that pay tribute to veterans as well as provide an excellent decoration for floats, centerpieces, and events.

From all of us at Allen’s Flower and Plants, we want to thank all our veterans around the country for their service and commitment to preserving the freedoms of our country.