Each year, Americans come together on November 11th to honor and thank our nation’s veterans. This federal holiday, known as Veterans Day, is a time to recognize and celebrate the brave men and women who have served in the United States military. This year, Veterans Day falls on a Monday, which means that many government offices and banks will be closed in observance of the holiday. However, one question remains: what about schools?
According to the Illinois State Board of Education, Veterans Day is not considered a “legal school holiday.” However, the board does indicate that districts have the option to celebrate it. In these cases, the district may designate it as a “Not in Attendance” day, meaning that no students are expected to be engaged in learning. Other “Not in Attendance” days include Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday, Lincoln’s Birthday, Casmir Pulaski Day, and Columbus Day.
The Chicago Public Schools 2024-25 calendar shows that Veterans Day is not observed as a holiday, meaning that schools will be in session. This decision is left up to the individual school districts, and some may choose to hold special events or assemblies to honor veterans on this day.
While schools may be open, many other institutions will be closed in observance of Veterans Day. The United States Post Office will not be delivering mail, and many banks, federal courthouses, and non-essential government offices will also be closed. In Illinois, driver’s license facilities and other Secretary of State’s offices will also be closed. However, retail stores and grocery stores are expected to be open, though their hours may vary.
Despite the closures, there are still plenty of ways to honor and celebrate our veterans on this special day. Numerous events will be held in the Chicago area, including one of the largest commemoration ceremonies at Soldier Field. This historic stadium, which was renamed in 1925 to honor those who died in combat, will host a ceremony featuring musical performances, a ceremonial wreath-laying, and a keynote address by The Honorable William J. Walker, the 38th Sergeant at Arms of the U.S. House of Representatives. The event will also recognize Chicago as a Purple Heart City, joining other cities across the country in honoring those who have been wounded or killed in combat.
But why do we celebrate Veterans Day? This federal holiday dates back to 1919, when President Woodrow Wilson first inaugurated it to commemorate the end of World War I. The date, November 11th, was chosen because it marked the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, when fighting between the Allied countries and Germany ceased. Originally known as Armistice Day, the holiday was later renamed Veterans Day to honor all living veterans who have served in the military.
In addition to honoring our veterans, Veterans Day also provides an opportunity for Americans to come together and show their appreciation for those who have served our country. One way to do this is by visiting National Parks, which will be free to all visitors on Veterans Day. The National Park Service invites everyone to remember our veterans by taking advantage of this opportunity.
Many businesses also offer deals and free meals to veterans and active-duty military members on Veterans Day. Starbucks, Applebee’s, BIBIBOP Asian Grill, Buffalo Wild Wings, Chili’s, Dunkin’, IHOP, and Rainbow Cone are just a few of the companies that will be offering special discounts and freebies to show their gratitude for those who have served our country.
In conclusion, while schools may be open on Veterans Day, there are still many ways to honor and celebrate our veterans on this important holiday. Whether it’s attending a ceremony, visiting a National Park, or taking advantage of special deals and discounts, let’s all take a moment to thank and recognize the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country.
