Miami Beach hosts 18th annual Veterans Day parade

Miami Beach will host its 18th annual Veterans Day parade on Nov. 11. The event begins at 11:11 a.m. and runs along Ocean Drive from Fifth Street to 15th Street.

The city and Veterans of Foreign Wars Miami Beach Post 3559 are organizing the celebration under the theme “Forever Honored.” The program coincides with the 250th anniversary of American independence. Marching bands, military groups, dance performances, and local businesses will participate in the procession.

Mayor Steven Meiner noted that Miami Beach served as one of the nation's largest training centers for American service members during World War II. “Many returned after the war to raise families, build businesses and help shape the Miami Beach we know today,” Meiner said. “Their legacy is woven into our city's history, and we honor their service and sacrifice.”

A ceremony will follow the parade at Lummus Park starting at 12:15 p.m. The program includes a moment of silence, a 21-gun salute, and a wreath-laying ceremony. Representatives from U.S. Southern Command and local elected officials will deliver remarks. Miami Beach Girl Scouts will unveil the restored Miami Beach Fire Department Station No. 4 Flag Box during the event.

The VFW is launching an inaugural Letters of Gratitude campaign. Residents and visitors can submit photos of handwritten letters or short videos thanking veterans and active-duty service members. Submissions opened on Nov. 2 at miamibeachfl.gov/america250. The messages will be projected onto The Betsy Orb from Nov. 7 to Nov. 10.