Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony in Downtown Aurora

Veterans Day is a chance to pause and honor those who have served. The Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony in Downtown Aurora is a short drive from Naperville.

Presented by the City of Aurora, with the City of Aurora Community Events Division as the contact for questions, this annual tradition recognizes the dedication of local military service men and women who have served our country. Downtown Aurora is an easy drive from Naperville, and the parade and ceremony take place on the morning of Veterans Day itself.

Why You Can't Miss the Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony in Downtown Aurora

This event stands out for its sincere focus on local veterans and the powerful symbolism of the ceremony timing. You will witness a community coming together in gratitude, with the parade along Downer Place and the 11 a.m. rifle salute creating moments that resonate long after you head home.

A Meaningful Outing Near Naperville

Looking for meaningful ways to connect with your community this season? The Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony in Downtown Aurora is a worthwhile outing for Naperville residents seeking a way to honor veterans. It takes place in downtown Aurora, a short trip from Naperville, so you can take part in a time-honored tradition without traveling far.

What to Expect Along the Route and at the Ceremony

The parade steps off at 10:15 a.m. from the corner of Water Street and Downer Place, with units marching west on Downer Place. It concludes right in front of the Grand Army of the Republic Military Museum at 23 E Downer Place, where the Serving Our Country and Community ceremony takes place.

At 11 a.m., veteran organizations will perform a military rifle salute as part of the ceremony. The city times the salute to 11 a.m., the hour tied to the armistice that ended World War I. You can expect a respectful tribute to the local service men and women the ceremony honors.

• Parade units marching west on Downer Place from Water Street
• Serving Our Country and Community ceremony at the GAR Military Museum
• Military rifle salute by veteran organizations at 11 a.m.

Plan Your Visit from Naperville

The parade steps off at 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, and the rifle salute at the ceremony is at 11 a.m. The city's events calendar lists the procession from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.; the city does not publish a separate end time for the ceremony. Plan to arrive before the 10:15 a.m. step-off if you want to watch the parade along Downer Place.

Admission details are not listed by the organizer. For the latest information, check the City of Aurora event page or contact the City of Aurora Community Events Division by phone or email.

• Phone: City of Aurora Community Events Division, (630) 256-3370
• Email: Events@aurora.il.us

Whether you are a longtime Naperville resident or just visiting the area, this Veterans Day observance in downtown Aurora is a wonderful way to show appreciation. Mark your calendar and join your neighbors in honoring our veterans.

Event Details At-A-Glance

• When: Wednesday, November 11, 2026, parade steps off at 10:15 AM, rifle salute at 11 AM
• Where: Parade steps off at Water St and Downer Pl; ceremony at the Grand Army of the Republic Military Museum
• Address: 23 E Downer Pl, Aurora, IL 60505, United States
• Organizer: City of Aurora Community Events Division
• Phone: 630-256-3370

Dates, times, and pricing can change. Confirm the latest details on the official event page before making plans.

Looking for more? Explore other things to do in Naperville or browse the full Naperville events calendar.