New Jersey is set to observe Veterans Day 2025 with a rich lineup of events across the state, celebrating the service and sacrifice of military veterans. From parades and formal ceremonies to special meals and cultural events, communities are coming together to recognize the men and women who have served in the armed forces. Tuesday, November 11, 2025, will be filled with opportunities for residents to participate, honor, and reflect on the contributions of veterans.
Parades and Ceremonies
Communities across New Jersey are hosting traditional parades and commemorative ceremonies, each offering a unique way to honor local veterans. The 68th Annual Middletown Veterans Day Parade kicks off on Sunday, November 2, 2025, beginning at Bayview Elementary School and concluding with a festive post-parade gathering at Mater Dei Park.
In Montgomery, a Veterans Day Observance on Sunday, November 9, 2025, will feature a procession, ceremonial honors, historical military displays, and live music, beginning promptly at 1:45 p.m. The event is designed to combine education and remembrance, providing insight into the state’s military history while paying tribute to those who have served.
On the official holiday, November 11, the Mount Holly Veterans Day Ceremony will take place at Veterans Park at 11 a.m., followed by a luncheon at Post 2692, offering both reflection and fellowship. Similarly, Toms River will host its annual parade starting at 9:30 a.m. at Main Street and Route 37, drawing veterans and local citizens alike in a vibrant display of community appreciation.
Camden’s Battleship New Jersey will hold a special ceremony to honor veterans and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps, complete with coffee and refreshments for attendees. Other ceremonies will be held at Winslow Township Municipal Building at 11 a.m., Bordentown Township, including a wreath-laying and Hometown Hero Award presentation, and Manchester Township High School at 2:30 p.m., providing multiple opportunities for residents to participate in meaningful remembrance.
Meals and Special Offers for Veterans
Many New Jersey restaurants and organizations are offering free or discounted meals to honor veterans on November 11. In Willingboro, veterans can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and program at the Kennedy Center starting at 9:30 a.m., with additional guests welcome for a modest fee. Nationwide chains are also participating: Applebee’s and Chili’s are offering free dine-in meals for veterans and active-duty personnel, while Buffalo Wild Wings provides 10 free boneless wings and fries for service members with valid ID. These gestures allow veterans to be recognized in both intimate and public settings.
Cultural and Community Events
Veterans Day in New Jersey extends beyond parades and meals, with cultural events highlighting the contributions of veterans in creative fields. The Montclair Art Museum will host an evening with actor, comedian, and Marine veteran Rob Riggle at 8 p.m., blending entertainment with storytelling and celebration. In Camden, the Veterans Day Freedom Run offers 5K, 10K, and half-marathon distances at Wiggins Waterfront Park on Saturday, November 15, 2025, combining physical activity with patriotic honor.
Retailers are also taking part, offering military discounts in recognition of veterans’ service. Stores such as Target and Tractor Supply Company are providing special offers, adding practical appreciation to the day’s commemorative events.
Local businesses and creative organizations are continuing the tradition of honoring veterans through storytelling and entrepreneurship. KickCharge Creative, for example, highlights the journey of Cale Forester, a veteran and entrepreneur, whose resilience and dedication reflect the true spirit of service. Initiatives like this connect veterans’ stories to the broader community while celebrating their ongoing contributions beyond military service.
New Jersey’s Veterans Day 2025 schedule offers a wide array of ways to participate — whether attending a parade, joining a ceremony, enjoying a special meal, or engaging with cultural events. The state’s celebrations underscore the importance of honoring those who have served, reflecting both gratitude and recognition across communities.
For those looking to explore the state’s broader cultural and creative offerings alongside Veterans Day events, visit Explore New Jersey Art & Culture for insights into galleries, performances, and programs that highlight the Garden State’s rich artistic landscape.
New Jersey continues to show that honoring veterans is not only a matter of tradition but a community-wide celebration, combining history, culture, and civic pride into one meaningful day.
