From parades and performances to a special ceremony at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, Kansas City celebrates and honors Veterans Day with a wide variety of regional events. Here are just a few to explore.
World War I Museum and Memorial
Several events and discounts headline Veterans Day at the National WWI Museum and Memorial:
- Free admission for veterans and active duty military personnel; half-price admission for the general public (Friday-Monday, Nov. 6-9 and Wednesday, Nov. 11; closed Tuesday, Nov. 10)
- Free public ceremony featuring remarks from dignitaries, a keynote address and special music (Wednesday, Nov. 11, 10 a.m.)
- Research stations, helicopter display and DIY poppy pins (dates and times vary)
Starting Wednesday, Nov. 11, one of only 14 surviving official printings of the U.S. Constitution from 1787 will go on view at the National WWI Museum and Memorial. This special exhibit, “The Words that Bind Us,” continues through Memorial Day 2027. It is free to the public, but a timed ticket reservation is required.
Overland Park
Patriotic performances, exhibits and activities highlight this Overland Park festivity, including an helicopters on display, food trucks and more.
Thursday, Nov. 5, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Leavenworth County
Travel less than 45 minutes northwest of Downtown KC to Leavenworth, Kansas, where you’ll find the largest Veterans Day parade west of the Mississippi River. It’s also the oldest observance of the holiday in the country with this year being the 107th edition of the parade.
Wednesday, Nov. 11 at 10:30 a.m.
Parkville
Lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement at English Landing Park to participate in the Veterans Day 5K. The race is held in honor of longtime runner, World War II veteran and VFW employee, Ed Burnham, and a portion of the proceeds benefit the VFW Foundation in his honor.
Sunday, Nov. 8 at 8 a.m.
