Veterans Day is about more than flags, parades and patriotic celebrations. It’s an opportunity to recognize the men and women who’ve served our country, thank them for their sacrifices and remind them that their community stands behind them.
Here in Spartanburg, veterans are our neighbors, family members, coworkers, business owners and friends. Their service has helped protect the freedoms we enjoy every day, and supporting them shouldn’t be limited to one day on the calendar.
This November, Spartanburg residents have two opportunities to come together in their honor. From a family-friendly festival filled with food and local vendors to a traditional downtown parade, there’s something for everyone who wants to show their appreciation.
Veterans Festival brings family fun to Spartanburg
The celebration begins Saturday, Nov. 7, with a Veterans Festival from noon to 5 p.m. in the parking lot between Rigsby’s Taproom & Social and Rigsby’s Smoke, Burgers, Wings & Grill at 100 Woodrow St. in Spartanburg.
The afternoon will feature local vendors, food, a beer garden, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice and bounce houses for children.
Families can enjoy offerings from Rigsby’s Smoke, Burgers, Wings & Grill, Rigsby’s Taproom & Social, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice and Salsarita’s Fresh Mexican Grill.
Organizers are also adding a special patriotic activity for younger attendees. Children who salute the American flag and recite the Pledge of Allegiance will receive a coupon for a free Jeremiah’s Italian Ice.
It’s a simple but meaningful way to encourage children to learn about patriotism, service and the importance of honoring those who’ve worn our nation’s uniform.
Local businesses are encouraged to participate as vendors, with opportunities for those selling handmade goods, patriotic merchandise, military memorabilia, veteran-themed gifts and other specialty items. Vendor spaces are $50, with discounted rates available for veteran-owned businesses.
Anyone interested in participating as a vendor can fill out a vendor application and contact event organizer Dana Sprinkle at DSprinkle@rigsbysrg.com for additional information.
Downtown Veterans Day Parade returns Nov. 11
The community’s celebration continues Wednesday, Nov. 11, with the Spartanburg Veterans Day Parade, hosted by American Legion Spartanburg Post 28.
Parade lineup begins at 3 p.m., with the procession scheduled to start at 4 p.m.
The route begins on Marion Avenue, turns right onto South Church Street and continues to Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium.
Residents are encouraged to bring American flags, gather along the route and cheer for the veterans participating.
Local businesses can also get involved. Organizers are encouraging companies to fill their vehicles with veterans and participate in the parade, creating another opportunity for those who’ve served to be recognized by their community.
Anyone interested in participating can call 864-253-0376 for additional information.
For parade announcements and updates, follow the Upstate Veterans Alliance Network on Facebook and look for information from American Legion Spartanburg Post 28.
Events like these do more than bring people together for an afternoon. They create opportunities for veterans to feel appreciated, for families to share stories of military service and for younger generations to better understand the sacrifices behind the freedoms they enjoy.
They also remind us that supporting veterans is an ongoing responsibility, whether that means shopping with veteran-owned businesses, volunteering with local organizations or simply taking the time to listen to someone’s story.
With both events happening just days apart, Spartanburg families have a wonderful opportunity to make Veterans Day part of their November plans.
Attend the festival, line the parade route or make time for both. Bring the kids, wave a flag and thank a veteran.
After all, a community that values its veterans is one that makes sure they know it.
