Manatee County Celebrates Veterans Day 2025
Manatee County Government offices and all Manatee County libraries will be closed Tuesday, November 11, 2025, to commemorate Veterans Day.
“As a Marine Corps veteran, Veterans Day holds a special place in my heart,” said Mike Rahn, Manatee County District 4 commissioner. “It’s a time to honor the men and women who have worn our nation’s uniform, standing ready to defend our freedoms with courage and sacrifice. I am proud to stand` alongside them and to serve a community that values their dedication.”
Local Veterans Ceremonies Include the Following
27thAnnual Manatee County Stand Down
Manatee County Fairgrounds (1303 17th St. W., Palmetto)
Nov. 1, 2025
8 a.m. - noon
Manatee County and Turning Points will host a free Stand Down event offering vital resources and support to Veterans in need. More than 50 agencies will provide access to social services, healthcare, veterans benefits and career opportunities. A Veterans Amnesty Court will also be available, offering relief from unpaid traffic fees and fines. Attendees can enjoy music, food and family-friendly activities, along with medical screening, haircuts, dental and eye exams, hygiene supplies and assistance with obtaining Florida IDs, driver’s licenses, and transportation. A free shuttle will operate between the Downtown Bradenton Transit Station (1301 6th Ave. W.) and the fairgrounds. For information call, (941) -747-1509.
Bradenton Kiwanis Annual Veterans Appreciation Luncheon
Manatee Performing Arts Center (502 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton)
Nov. 4, 2025
11:30 a.m.
This annual luncheon honors local Veterans with a keynote address from Naomi Copeland, President of Southwest Florida Honor Flight, an all-volunteer nonprofit that transports Veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit national memorials built in their honor. Tickets are free for Veterans but limited and available through the Manatee County Veterans Services office (1401 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton).
Annual Tribute to Heroes Parade & Block Party
Lakewood Ranch Main Street
Nov. 9, 2025
2 - 5 p.m. (Parade steps off at 4 p.m.)
Lakewood Ranch Main Street will welcome thousands to honor local Veterans, active-duty service members, and hometown heroes. Presented by Veteran Air, this free community event features patriotic entertainment, festive floats, food and drinks, and fun activities for all ages. The celebration culminates with the Tribute to Heroes Parade beginning at 4 p.m., featuring community groups, marching bands and Veteran organizations.
Manatee County Veterans Day Ceremony and Parade
Palmetto
Nov. 11, 2025
11:30 a.m.
The Manatee County Veterans’ Council and City of Palmetto co-host the annual Veterans Day Parade. All Veteran organizations, JROTC, high schools, and marching bands are invited to participate. The Parade will begin at the Manatee County Fairgrounds at 11:30 a.m. and ends at Sutton Park, following the Veterans Day Memorial Service at 11 a.m. in Sutton Park.
Old Soldiers and Sailors Parade
Anna Maria Island
Nov. 11, 2025
11 a.m.
The City of Anna Maria will host its annual Veterans Day Parade along Pine Avenue, concluding at City Pier Park. Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend and honor local veterans.
Parrish Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony
7550 Fort Hamer Road, Parrish
Nov. 11, 2025
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Parrish Civic Association will host the first Parrish Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony at the new Parrish Community Park on Fort Hamer Road. The event will include family activities, community participation, and a public ceremony, with plans to make this an annual tradition.
16thannual Veterans Day Mass at Sarasota National Cemetery
Sarasota National Cemetery Patriot Plaza (9810 State Highway 72, Sarasota)
Nov. 11, 2025
2:45 p.m. arrival, Mass begins at 3 p.m.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to allow time for parking and walking to Patriot Plaza. This annual Mass honors veterans and their families in a solemn, community gathering of remembrance and gratitude.
County Facility & Service Updates
Trash, Recycling, and Yard Waste:
Collections will NOT be impacted by the Veterans Day holiday. All normal collection schedules and debris removal operations will continue as usual.
Manatee County Libraries:
All library locations will be closed on Tuesday, November 11, and will reopen Wednesday, November 12.
Parks, Preserves, and Beaches:
County parks and natural preserves will remain open to the public.
Manatee Public Beach on Anna Maria Island will be open.
Other Manatee County Beaches will open as conditions permit.
Manatee County and Buffalo Creek Golf Courses will be open.
G.T. Bray Recreation Center and John Marble Recreation Center will be open 7 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Walton Racquet Center will be closed (check-ins at main building).
Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT):
Fixed routes and Handy Bus service will be suspended on Veterans Day. The Anna Maria Island Trolley will operate as usual.
For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.