By USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

Every Nov. 11, the United States honors the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces on Veterans Day.

This tradition began as Armistice Day, which celebrated the end of World War I. While Memorial Day remembers those who gave their lives, Veterans Day celebrates all who have worn the uniform, both past and present. It’s a day of gratitude, reflection and community.

In Arizona, it’s a day filled with hometown parades, ceremonies and flag-waving. So whether you’re a veteran, a family member, or someone who just wants to say “thank you,” here are five parades you can go to celebrate Veterans Day and honor those who have served around the Valley.

Phoenix Veterans Day Parade

The family-friendly event is not just a parade of floats — it’s a salute to veterans from all eras. With marching bands, color-guard units and a spotlight on service, the themes each year aim to honor a specific group of veterans.

Details: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11. Starting at North Phoenix Baptist Church, 5757 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. Free. honoringamericasveterans.org.

Gilbert Veterans Day Ceremony & Classic and Custom Car Show

The 21st annual Veterans Day ceremony is free to the public and includes words of tribute by guest speaker Chris Woodard, musical performances by local schools, and military displays.

Details: 3-6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11. Gilbert Water Tower Plaza, 45 W. Page Ave., Gilbert. Free. gilbertaz.gov.

Surprise Veterans Day Celebration

Surprise is rolling out its annual Veterans Day parade with community floats, marching bands and local organizations gathering to honor the service and sacrifice of veterans. After the parade, there will be food trucks and live music.

Details: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11. Routed along Bullard Avenue between Paradise and Tierra Buena lanes. surpriseaz.gov.

Tempe Veterans Day Parade

With over 50 years of tradition, Tempe’s annual Veterans Day observance honors its veterans with a ceremony that brings together service members, families and residents. The parade features members of the Tempe City Council, various Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, local school marching bands, community members, veterans groups and many more. Volunteers will hand out thousands of small flags to children and veterans along the parade route.

Details: 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11. ASU Gammage, at 12th Street and Mill Avenue, Tempe. Free. downtowntempe.com.

East Valley Veterans Parade

This community gathering honors local veterans, active duty service members and their families. Marching bands, youth ROTC groups and floats will be part of the parade with the theme “250 Years. Ready then, ready now.”

Details: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11. Center Street and University Drive, Mesa. Free. evvp.org.

Reporting by Tiffany Acosta, Arizona Republic