Honoring Our Heroes

On Tuesday, November 11, 2025, Santa Barbara will join the nation in observing Veterans Day, a vital opportunity to pause and express our deepest gratitude to all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. This year, the city’s main commemoration will be a powerful and moving ceremony at the beautiful Santa Barbara Cemetery.

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The Annual Veterans Day Ceremony

The cornerstone of Santa Barbara’s observance is the annual Veterans Day Ceremony, a free event presented by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1649 and the Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation. It is an event filled with solemn reflection and patriotic celebration, welcoming all members of the community.

• Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
• Time: 11:00 a.m. (Attendees are encouraged to arrive early)
• Location: Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel Drive, Santa Barbara, CA

Program Highlights

The open-air ceremony will feature several poignant elements:

• Musical Performances: Enjoy patriotic music from groups like The Prime Time Band and the Santa Barbara Choral Society.
• Presentations: The program will include presentations by the UCSB Color Guard and the Sons of the American Revolution.
• Special Tribute: This year features the first-ever public performance of “The Veteran,” a new piece composed by Grammy Award-winning artist Barry De Vorzon.
• The Flyover: The ceremony will conclude with a spectacular and symbolic flyover by The Condor Squadron.

The Santa Barbara Cemetery’s main flagpole area will be decorated with dozens of American flags, providing a truly beautiful and respectful backdrop for this important commemoration. Seating is available, but arriving early is recommended.

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Reflect and Remember

Veterans Day is an excellent time to visit other memorials dedicated to those who served. These locations offer peaceful spots for personal reflection and a chance to teach younger generations about the significance of military service.

• Veterans Memorial Walk, Elings Park: Overlooking the ocean, this scenic pathway is lined with engraved pavers dedicated to individual veterans. It offers stunning views and a quiet place to reflect.
• Aviator’s Memorial, Santa Barbara Airport: A tribute specifically to the brave men and women who served in the aviation branches of the military.
• Santa Barbara Veterans’ Memorial Building: Located on the waterfront, this historic building serves as a hub for local veterans’ support and community events.

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We encourage all Santa Barbara residents and visitors to participate in these events and take a moment on November 11th to personally thank a veteran. Their service and sacrifice ensure the freedoms we cherish every day.

How will you be honoring our veterans this year? Share your plans in the comments below!