Special Report: Veterans Day 2026 — The Arlington Ceremony, Free Meals and the 3.6% Raise Coming to Veterans' Checks
Wednesday, Nov. 11, America honors those who served. Here is your complete guide: the National Veterans Day Observance at Arlington, the 48 official regional ceremonies, the businesses saying thank you — and what the 2027 cost-of-living increase means for disabled veterans and military retirees.
By Clara Hughes
On Wednesday, Nov. 11, the nation pauses to thank the men and women who wore the uniform. The day begins, as it does every year, at Arlington National Cemetery. The 2026 National Veterans Day Observance, co-hosted by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Veterans Day National Committee, starts at 11 a.m. Eastern with the Presidential Wreath Laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It continues in the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors and remarks from dignitaries. The ceremony is open to the public. For veterans and their families, this Veterans Day also brings news about their checks: a 3.6% cost-of-living increase for 2027. Keep reading with Altas Premium. Below: the official regional ceremonies near you, a verified list of national Veterans Day meals and discounts, exactly how the 3.6%