The Rio Grande Valley, as do many areas across the country, go out of their way to pay tribute to Veterans on, or around, Veterans Day. Veterans Day honors all who have served in the United States Armed Forces acknowledging their sacrifice, courage, and dedication to the country.

While its origin lies in Armistice Day, which commemorated the end of World War I on November 11, 1918, recognizing the cessation of hostilities, was renamed Veterans Day in 1954. It is now a celebration of everyone who has worn the military uniform, regardless of whether they served in wartime or peacetime. While Memorial Day specifically honors those who have died in service, Veterans Day recognizes all who have served, with a particular emphasis on thanking living Veterans.

Community events are held throughout the Valley and here we will tell you about a few of the ones you might want to attend.

McAllen VA will hold a Veterans Day celebration and benefits fair on Thursday, November 6 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Veterans are invited to enjoy hot dogs, connect with VA staff, and explore the services available at the McAllen VA Clinic. They are located at 901 E. Hackberry Ave.

The City of Edinburg’s Veterans Day Parade will be held on Saturday, November 8 at 9:30 a.m. The event will showcase a remarkable assembly of patriotic floats beginning at Richard R. Flores Stadium. These creatively crafted floats will follow a designated route ending at Kuhn Street. The event is entirely free and open to the public, providing an opportunity for everyone to come and celebrate. Attendees are encouraged to join the Veterans Day Parade to celebrate the heroism and dedication of those who have served the country.

The City of Mission will host their Veterans Day Parade at 10 a.m. It will be held in downtown Mission along Business 83, from Conway to Bryan Rd. If you want to participate in the parade contact Amy Tijerina at (956) 585-9724. The city will also host a Veterans Day Barbecue on Tuesday, November 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Mission Event Center. Veterans are invited to enjoy a free meal and dine in or pick it up to go. Lunch is available while supplies last.

The South Texas Health System Behavioral is hosting a “Salute to Veterans” Concert and Community Fair on Saturday, November 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. The event will take place in their main parking lot on 2102 W. Trenton Rd. in Edinburg. The event will honor the sacrifices of all who’ve served in the military while continuing to raise important awareness about the enduring mental health struggles within the Veteran community. The event will feature free food, live music, games and will highlight Veteran services and resources available throughout the Valley. All Veterans and their families are welcome to attend.

If you wish to honor a Veterans or Veteran Family for this Veterans Day, there will be a flag placement ceremony held at the Rio Grande Valley Veterans Cemetery, On Tuesday, November 11, at 9 a.m. Flags will be available at the cemetery. It is located at 2520 S. Inspiration Rd. in Mission.

McAllen Veterans War Memorial of Texas will host their Veterans Day event at 11 a.m. on November 11, honoring Veterans and is open to the entire community. It will feature speakers and community involvement recognizing the service and sacrifice of all who served in the armed forces. The memorial is located next to the McAllen Convention Center.

The Marine Military Academy in Harlingen will hold a Veterans Day Parade on Tuesday, November 11 at 4 p.m. It will be held at the academy and the Iwo Jima Monument Parade Grounds at 320 Iwo Jima Blvd. Following the parade, the academy often hosts a flag retirement ceremony at the Iwo Jima Monument.

While these are not all of the Veterans events held in the Valley this coming weekend and Veterans Day, these are the few most noteworthy. Also be sure to check you favorite local restaurant for possible free meals and treats.