Alachua County to Host Annual Veterans Day Celebration
Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026
Last Updated: Monday, Oct. 26, 2026
Alachua County Veteran Services, in partnership with the Alachua County Veterans Memorial Committee, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System and local veteran nonprofit organizations, will host the county’s annual Veterans Day Celebration on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026.
The free, family-friendly event will be held from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park (7400 SW 41st Place, Gainesville). This year’s theme, “The Strength Behind the Service,” honors not only those who have served the nation, but also the families, caregivers and loved ones who stand beside them.
Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy live music, family activities, aircraft displays, Veterans Row and other community activities.
Festivities will begin at 7 a.m. with a free breakfast for veterans, followed by the Veterans Day Community 5K. Same-day registration will be available from 7:30 to 8:15 a.m., and the race will begin at 8:30 a.m.
The formal Veterans Day program will begin promptly at 11 a.m.
Other event highlights will include:
- School Patriotic Artwork Competition and Veteran Creative Arts Exhibition
- First responder aircraft displays and a skydiving performance
- Live band performances and drill team demonstrations
- Military and historical displays
- Guest speakers honoring veterans’ service and sacrifice
- Veteran resources and supportive services
- Special appearances by University of Florida mascots Albert and Alberta
“Veterans Day is a time to honor the courage, sacrifice, and commitment of those who have served our nation, while recognizing that the strength of our military is also found in the families and communities who stand behind them,” said Alachua County Veteran Services Director Olajuwon White.
Learn more about Alachua County Veterans Services.
For more information about the celebration, the 5K, Veterans Row, volunteer opportunities, or for Alachua County Veteran Services, contact Olajuwon White at 352-264-6740 or alachuacountyvet@alachuacounty.us.
If you have a disability and need an accommodation in order to participate in a County program, service or public meeting, please contact the Alachua County Equal Opportunity Office at 352-374-5275 at least 2 business days prior to the event. TTY users please call 711 (Florida Relay Service).
