Veterans Day in DC: Road Closures and Discounts

On November 11, Washington D.C. will observe Veterans Day, an occasion dedicated to honoring military veterans. The city will be bustling with parades, road closures, special service hours, and discounts at various restaurants. Here’s what to know to plan your day effectively.

Road Closures and Traffic in D.C.

The National Veterans Parade is scheduled for Sunday, bringing along significant traffic disruptions. Various streets will be designated as “No Parking” from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m., including:

• 4th Street (between Pennsylvania Avenue NW and Independence Avenue SW)
• 6th Street (from Pennsylvania Avenue to Constitution Avenue NW)
• Constitution Avenue (from Pennsylvania Avenue to 23rd Street NW)
• Madison Drive (between 3rd Street and 14th Street NW)

During the parade on Veterans Day, many streets will close to vehicles from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., specifically:

• Constitution Avenue (between 15th Street and 23rd Street NW)
• 17th Street (from New York Avenue NW to Independence Avenue SW)
• Virginia Avenue NW (from 24th Street to Constitution Avenue NW)

Traffic on the 14th Street/I-395 bridge will also be redirected eastward for safety.

What’s Open and Closed

On Veterans Day, all DMV offices in the District will be closed. However, at least one library per ward will remain open. Parking enforcement will be temporarily suspended, and the Department of Public Works will not collect trash, recycling, or food waste on this day; services will be rescheduled for the week ahead.

Public transportation will operate on a weekend schedule, providing free parking in garages. In Maryland and Virginia, local closures and special hours will apply. For example, Arlington will close community centers except for the Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center, which will be open from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Most grocery chains, including Aldi, Costco, Giant, Safeway, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods, will operate during regular hours. FedEx and UPS will provide their usual services, while USPS will observe the holiday, resuming deliveries on November 12.

Veterans Day Activities and Celebrations

Apart from the parade, various national parks and wildlife refuges will offer free admission to veterans. This gesture aims to honor their service. Many restaurants in D.C. will provide meals and special discounts for veterans and active military personnel who present military identification. Notable offers include:

• Applebee’s: Free meal from a special menu and a $5 discount on the next meal.
• BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Free pizookie and appetizer coupon valid through December.
• Chili’s and California Pizza Kitchen: Free meal from select menus, including a drink.
• IHOP: Free Red, White & Blue pancakes from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Red Robin: Free Red’s Big Tavern burger and unlimited fries.

Other chains like Chipotle, Outback Steakhouse, Perry’s Steakhouse, Texas Roadhouse, Twin Peaks, and Uno Pizzeria will participate with similar offers. Some discounts may start days early or extend throughout the week.

Tips for Enjoying Veterans Day

If you plan to attend the parade or visit restaurants offering discounts, consider the following:

• Arrive early to avoid road closures and congestion.
• Bring military identification to benefit from promotions.
• Check special transportation schedules and services, particularly for Metro and buses in Maryland and Virginia.
• Verify parking availability and alternative routes.

Veterans Day in Washington D.C. blends remembrance, road closures, and celebratory activities honoring those who served. With proper planning and an awareness of the traffic restrictions, residents and visitors can express their gratitude and enjoy the festive atmosphere this day brings.