San Antonio – known as Military City USA – is rolling out a packed lineup of Veterans Day activities to honor the men and women who have defended our freedoms. With Texas home to the nation’s largest veteran population, more than 160,000 of those veterans live right here in Bexar County. Local veteran service groups, city officials and businesses are joining forces to make November 11 a day of gratitude and community.
Saturday celebrations
The United States Military Veterans Parade Association, sponsored by USAA, will lead a downtown parade that starts at Milam Park at noon and proceeds down Houston Street. Spectators can watch the procession of veterans, marching bands and community groups as they travel past 500 W Commerce St.
Also on Saturday, the Salute to Service Veterans Day celebration will be held at the Women Unlimited Headquarters at 322 El Paso Street. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features a live performance by Tejano artist Liz Garcia, along with booths showcasing veteran‑owned businesses and resources for service members.
Sunday and Monday events
Helotes will host a Veterans Day concert from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Helotes Fire Department (12951 Bandera Rd.). The Helotes Area Community Band will provide music for families and veterans gathering in the historic town.
On Monday, the Texas Veterans Commission and partners are organizing a veterans hiring fair at the Boeing Center at Tech Port (3331 General Hudnell Dr.) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., giving veterans a chance to connect with local employers seeking skilled workers.
Veterans Day ceremonies
For those who prefer a more reflective observance, the Government Canyon State Natural Area (12861 Galm Rd.) will host a Veterans Day hike beginning at 9 a.m. The 3‑5‑mile trek offers a peaceful way to honor fallen comrades while enjoying the Texas Hill Country.
After some debate, the traditional ceremony at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery will proceed as scheduled. The service begins at 11 a.m. in the cemetery’s assembly area (1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd.).
The San Antonio National Cemetery (517 Paso Hondo St.) will also hold a ceremony from 11 a.m. to noon, organized by the Bexar County Buffalo Soldiers Association. Retired Army General Vincent Brooks is slated to speak.
Post‑Veterans Day celebrations
Thursday night, Fitzgerald’s Bar and Live Music Venue (437 McCarty Rd., Suite 101) will host a veterans‑focused concert at 7 p.m., featuring a mix of local bands and veteran performers.
The 6th annual Veterans Day celebration at the Hemisphere (210 S. Alamo St.) runs Saturday, Nov. 14, from noon to 6 p.m. The free event includes live music, food and family activities.
Also on Saturday, VFW Post 76 will present a USMC Birthday Veterans Day Celebration & Bike Show at 10 10th St. The festivities begin at 3 p.m. and continue until midnight, offering live music, food, drinks and a showcase of motorcycles.
Special discounts for service members
Throughout November, the San Antonio Zoo is offering free admission to active‑duty service members and veterans, with half‑price tickets for up to four immediate family members.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas will host a military appreciation weekend on Nov. 14‑15, granting free entry to active‑duty personnel and veterans.
Local restaurants—including Applebee’s, Chili’s, Denny’s, Golden Corral and Freddy’s—are providing free or discounted meals on Wednesday for veterans and service members who present a valid military ID.
These events and offers reflect the deep respect San Antonio residents have for those who have served. The city’s veteran service organizations, businesses and civic leaders are working together to ensure every veteran feels appreciated this Veterans Day.
Original reporting: San Antonio Report — read the source article.
