Veterans Day in Bend, Oregon
Veterans Day in Bend, Oregon – A Local Guide
Updated 11/5/25
Veterans Day is on Tuesday, November 11th, 2025 this year.
Veterans Day in Bend feels a little quieter and more reflective than other holidays. It’s a time when the community slows down to honor the people who have served, with small ceremonies, thoughtful gatherings, and plenty of ways to spend the day showing appreciation. If you're spending Veterans Day weekend in Bend, there are a few good events, specials, and activities to know about.
This guide covers local ceremonies, places offering free or discounted admission, indoor and outdoor activities, and a few good spots to grab a meal. Whether you're a veteran, traveling with family, or just looking for ways to show respect, this guide will help you make the most of the weekend.
Table of Contents
2025 Veterans Day Parade (Downtown Bend)
https://covo-us.org/veterans-day-parade/
Celebrate and honor service at the 24th Annual Veterans Day Parade hosted by Central Oregon Veterans Outreach (COVO). This year’s theme is “Service to Nation and Community!” with Grand Marshal: Robert Landers, USMC Vietnam War Veteran.
Event details
Date: Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Downtown Bend
Host: Central Oregon Veterans Outreach (COVO)
More info / registration form: https://covo-us.org/veterans-day-parade/
What to know
Arrive early to find parking and a viewing spot along the main downtown corridors.
Dress warm; November mornings in Bend can be cold.
Bring small flags if you’d like to show support.
Please keep dogs leashed and be mindful of parade vehicles and marching units.
Veterans Day Deals and Specials (2025)
Many local businesses offer specials to thank veterans and active-duty service members on Veterans Day. Here are solid, up-to-date options:
High Desert Museum (Bend)
Free admission for veterans on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 (10am–4pm). Note: Active-duty service members and up to five family members get free admission every day via Blue Star Museums.
Starbucks
Free tall (12 oz) brewed coffee (hot or iced) for veterans, service members, and military spouses on Veterans Day. Offer details are published on Starbucks’ military community page each year; check store participation.
https://about.starbucks.com/starbucks-commitment-to-the-military-community/
Applebee’s
Free full-size entrée from a special Veterans Day menu on Nov 11, 2025 (dine-in, participating locations; proof of service required). Bend locations typically participate, call ahead just to make sure.
Chili’s
Free meal from a limited Veterans Day menu on Nov 11, 2025 (dine-in, participating locations; proof of service required).
Local Breweries & Taprooms (Bend)
Spots like Bevel, Monkless, or Worthy sometimes offer a free pint or discounts for veterans on Veterans Day—but these are often announced last-minute or only in-house. Call or check same-day social posts for any 2025 offers. (General brewery pages don’t list Veterans Day deals in advance.)
Black Bear Diner
Offers vary by location and year (some locations do a Veterans Day special; others offer a standing military discount). Call the Bend location to confirm 2025 details before you go.
What to bring: A military/VA ID, DD-214, driver’s license with veteran designation, or other proof of service—policies vary by business. For more nationwide listings updated throughout the week, you can also scan Military.com’s live roundup.
Honor Through Safety: Sign Yourself Up for a Beginner Firearms Class
If you’ve been curious about learning the right way, Veterans Day is a good reminder to start with safety. Book your own intro handgun course. It’s classroom-first, paced for beginners, and focused on fundamentals: the four safety rules, range etiquette, safe storage, and supervised live fire (optional).
Good for
Absolute beginners.
Anyone considering ownership and wanting a baseline.
Families who want safe-storage guidance at home.
How to do it right
Choose a class labeled “Intro,” “Basics,” or “Safety.”
Confirm what to bring (eye/ear protection, ID).
If you’re not ready for live fire, select a classroom-only or private lesson option.
Local provider option
Alternatives if you’re not ready to shoot
Classroom-only safety seminar.
Safe-storage demo (locks, safes, quick-access options).
Gift a training voucher for a future class.
What you’ll typically learn
The four safety rules and how to apply them.
How ranges work: check-in, commands, and etiquette.
Handling basics: loading/unloading, safe transport, and stoppage protocol.
Responsible storage at home, with options for households with kids or guests.
Outdoor Things to Do Over Veterans Day Weekend
Crisp, sunny days are common in mid-November, but mornings can be cold. Dress in layers and start late if trails are icy.
Good outdoor options
Shevlin Park — Late-fall loops along Tumalo Creek; larch and cottonwood color if you catch it.
Deschutes River Trail (Old Mill section) — Flat, easy walk with river and mountain views; coffee nearby.
Pilot Butte — Quick hike or drive to the top for 360° Cascade views on clear days.
Smith Rock State Park — Usually snow-free into late fall; hike Misery Ridge or the rim for big canyon scenery.
Trail tip: Watch for early-morning ice. Simple traction (Yaktrax or similar) can help if it’s slick.
Indoor Things to Do Over Veterans Day Weekend
When the weather turns, there’s plenty to do inside.
High Desert Museum — Exhibits on regional history, wildlife, and art; great for families.
Deschutes Historical Museum — Compact, downtown stop for Bend’s early days and rotating exhibits.
Art Galleries & Studios — Walkable options downtown and in the Old Mill; try Peterson Roth Gallery and Lubbesmeyer Studio.
Breweries & Cozy Cafes — Warm up at Crux, Bevel, or Monkless; or grab coffee at Lone Pine or Backporch.
Trivia & Live Music — Many pubs host trivia or local shows over the holiday weekend; check day-of schedules.
Where to Eat Over Veterans Day Weekend
Most places keep normal hours, but call ahead on the holiday itself—dinner fills fast.
Breakfast
McKay Cottage — Local favorite; arrive early.
The Lemon Tree — Bright brunch plates and pastries.
Lunch
Jackson’s Corner — Hearty sandwiches, salads, housemade staples.
The Lot — Food trucks with covered, heated seating.
Dinner
Wild Rose Northern Thai Eats — Bold, northern Thai dishes; books up quickly.
Spork — Casual, globally inspired comfort food.
Pine Tavern — Classic Bend spot with river views.
Breweries with Food
10 Barrel (Eastside) — Full menu; indoor and heated outdoor seating.
Crux Fermentation Project — Sunset views, rotating food trucks, big lawn vibe.
Tips for Visiting Bend Over Veterans Day Weekend
Pack for variable weather
Layers are key. Mornings can be below freezing, but afternoons often warm up into the 40s or low 50s.Expect quieter crowds
Unlike big holiday weekends, Veterans Day tends to be calmer in Bend. Many locals take short trips, so it can be a great time to explore.Make dinner reservations
Even though it’s a quieter weekend, popular restaurants still fill up, especially Saturday night.Be careful on trails
Ice can form on shaded trail sections even when it’s sunny. Good shoes and caution go a long way.Support local businesses
Veterans Day is a great time to show some love to small businesses around town — from coffee shops to gear stores to breweries.
