52nd Annual Veterans Day Parade & Observance

an auburn tradition

Now in its 52nd year, Auburn's Veterans Day Parade and Observance is the largest celebration to honor the service and commitment of America's veterans, west of the Mississippi!

Marching bands, military equipment, American flags, and thousands of spectators will line the route in rain or shine. Come join us in our salute to America's heroes and heroines on Saturday, November 11th! 

Veterans Day Parade

The Parade begins promptly at 11AM in Downtown Auburn and proceeds west on Main from E St. SE to A St. NW near Auburn City Hall over a period of approximately two and a half hours. 

The parade boasts over 200 entries and nearly 6,000 parade participants showcasing American strength of will, endurance and purpose. The parade will feature over 30 marching bands, as well as local Junior ROTC units, honor guards, military units and antique military vehicles. Spectators will also enjoy the procession of veteran units, drill teams, community and scouting groups, intermixed with floats, antique and classic cars and other entries of interest. Spectators are advised to arrive early, bring a folding chair, a flag, their best salute and plenty of tissue. 

Thank you to the Muckleshoot Casino for their generous support of the parade!  Media support courtesy of KOMO 4, KOMO News Radio AM 1000/97.7 FM and Talk Radio 570 KVI.

Other Activities on Saturday, November 11 

7:00-9:30 a.m. - Auburn American Legion Post #78 Breakfast
Auburn Senior Activity Center | 808 Ninth Street SE
The breakfast is co-sponsored by the American Legion Post #78 and the City of Auburn. The breakfast is $7/person and includes pancakes, eggs, ham and juice or coffee. 

7:00 AM - 10:00 AM Curb Competition (Set-Up) 
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM Curb Competition (Judging)
The Curb Competition is for entries that want to honor veterans, but don't meet the requirements to participate in the parade. Those participating in the Curb Competition may set-up and decorate a 12' long x 5' deep section of curb to honor our veterans.  Participants must set-up along the parade route (Main Street) between Auburn Ave (A Street SE) to E Street NE.  Set-up is held from   Awards will be given in three categories: Best Curb Appeal, Most Patriotic and Best Salute to Veterans.  The application must be submitted and approved in order to be judged in the Curb Competition.  Stay for the parade to salute our Veterans and active military personnel - a great way to show your support!

9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.-  Static Display & Exhibit Showcase
South Division St. between Main St. and 2nd St. SE | Downtown Auburn
Displays, booths, food, military equipment, military vehicles and veterans and/or military information.

9:45-10:15 a.m. - Remembrance Ceremony and Lighting of the Flame Veterans Memorial Park | 411 E Street NE
The flame is lit and guarded through the night at the Veterans Memorial at Veterans Memorial Park,. Wreath placement, rifle salute, prayers and taps encompass this special ceremony held just prior to the Parade.

1:00-10:00 p.m.  - Veterans Day High School Marching Band Competition
Auburn Memorial Stadium | 801 Fourth Street NE
The state's largest marching band and field competition, hosted by the Auburn High School Band & Choir Parents, showcases over 25 bands competing in the field competition. Awards and full band retreat at 9:30pm.  Event admission is charged at the door.

1:30-3:00 p.m. - Auburn Noon Lions Veterans Day Luncheon
Merrill Gardens at Auburn | 18 1st Street SE
The luncheon is co-sponsored by the Auburn Noon Lions Club and the City of Auburn. Pre-reservations are $15/person and includes a variety of pastas, salad, rolls, desert and beverages. The lunch program honors our Veterans, with special recognition given to our dignitaries in attendance. The Governor's Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee's Outstanding Veterans will be honored at the lunch, along with other special presentations. For additional information or to reserve seats by phone, call 253-931-3043.


Make a weekend of it

There are seven Auburn hotels that offer comfort, affordable rates so you can enjoy the Veterans Day parade and celebration.