Bay County Honors Heroes: Join the Veterans Day Parades Honoring Sacrifice and Service on November 11

BAY COUNTY, FL – Veterans Day is a solemn day to reflect on, honor and express gratitude for the service and sacrifices of all veterans who have worn a uniform and served in the U.S. Armed Forces, living or deceased, whether their service was during wartime or peace. It is a day to thank veterans for their courage, honor, and sacrifice in protecting American freedoms.

The holiday’s roots go back to the end of World War I, which ended at 11 am on November 11, 1918. A year later, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11, 1919, as Armistice Day to honor the veterans of World War I and for world peace. After World War II and the Korean War, veteran service organizations lobbied to change the holiday’s name to Veterans Day to recognize the sacrifices of all veterans who served in the armed forces.

Local communities in Bay County are hosting events to commemorate the day. Here are two parades scheduled for November 11, 2025:

Bay County Veterans Day Parade

●     Date and Time: November 11, 2025, 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM

●     Location: Starts at the corner of 12th Street and Frankford Avenue (Oakland Terrace Elementary School), Panama City, FL. The route proceeds south on Frankford Avenue, then east on 11th Street to the Bay County Government Center (approximately 1.4 miles).

●     Details: The parade begins promptly at 8:30 a.m., followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Government Center. Enjoy patriotic music by local bands and a guest speaker from one of our military bases.

●     More Details: Check local listings for participation or updates.

31st Annual Veterans Day Parade - City of Callaway

●     Date and Time: November 11, 2025, 2:00 PM – 2:30 PM (line-up begins at 1:00 PM)

●     Location: Cherry Street from Berthe Avenue to Star Avenue (enter line-up at Star Avenue), Callaway, FL. LHFES will participate.

●     Details: Join the 31st annual event honoring veterans with a community parade starting at 2:00 PM.

●     More Details: Contact City of Callaway for entry or spectator information.

These events provide opportunities for residents to show appreciation and come together in remembrance. For the latest updates, visit official Bay County or city websites.