Family Friendly Veteran’s Day Events 2025 On Oahu, Hawaii

Veteran’s Day Events 2025 on Oahu: The Ultimate Mom’s Guide to Honoring Heroes with Kids in Town

Trust me, mama – I learned all this the hard way so you don’t have to!

So you’re planning to be on Oahu during Veteran’s Day with your crew? Girl, you’re in for such a special treat – and I’m not just talking about the weather (though let’s be real, 80 degrees in November beats anywhere else!).

Before I spill all my Veteran’s Day events secrets, can I just say – if you’re here with the family, this is THE perfect time for some gorgeous family photos with those incredible Oahu backdrops? The lighting in November is chef’s kiss and trust me, you’ll want to capture these memories. Check out my work at alisonbellphotographer.com – I specialize in making family photo sessions actually FUN (yes, even with cranky kids).

Why Veteran’s Day Events in Hawaii Hit Different

Listen, I moved here knowing absolutely NOTHING about Hawaiian culture or military history. Four boys, zero island knowledge – what could go wrong? But Veteran’s Day in Hawaii? It’s unlike anywhere else. This place is practically built on military history, and the respect for veteran’s here is profound and beautiful.

The weather alone makes everything better – no bundling up kids in coats for parades! Plus, Veteran’s Day falls right in the sweet spot of Hawaii’s “winter” season when it’s still gorgeous but not peak tourist crazy.

Want Oahu travel tips from a MOM in your inbox?

Just drop address below!

Must-Do Veteran’s Day Events for Families

USS Arizona Memorial & Pearl Harbor Veteran’s Day Events on Oahu

The USS Arizona Memorial serves as a perpetual Veteran’s Day tribute, honoring the 1,177 sailors and Marines who lost their lives during the Pearl Harbor attack and remain entombed within the sunken battleship. This solemn memorial operates year-round as a living monument to their sacrifice, making every visit a meaningful remembrance of those who gave their lives in service to our country.

Details for visiting:

• Open times: Daily operations (check current hours on NPS website)
• Open days: 7 days a week, except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
• Reservations: Strongly recommended for the boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial
• Notices: Security restrictions apply – no bags allowed

For current schedules, reservation information, and visitor notices, visit the official National Park Service website at https://www.nps.gov/perl/index.htm.

National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl)

The annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony takes place here every November 11th at 10:00 AM – and mama, this is the big one. The ceremony is beautiful, moving, and surprisingly kid-friendly.

Mom hack: Park early (like 8:30 AM early) or you’ll be walking uphill for days with a stroller. The views from up here are absolutely stunning – prime photo op territory.

Important Notes:

• Book Pearl Harbor tickets well in advance (ideally when you book your Hawaii trip)
• Arrive early to allow time for security screening and shuttle transport
• The event is free, but regular Pearl Harbor admission fees may apply
• No bags allowed at Pearl Harbor security – use the bag storage facility if needed

What to bring:

• Sunscreen (even in November!)
• Water bottles
• Small snacks for littles
• Camera for those panoramic views

Pearl Harbor Memorial Veteran’s Day Events

The Battleship Missouri Memorial hosts a special sunset ceremony from 4:30-5:30 PM on Veteran’s Day, and it’s free and open to the public.

Real talk: This is incredibly moving but also educational for kids. My boys learned more about WWII in two hours here than a whole semester of school.

Insider tip: If you don’t have access to Ford Island, there’s complimentary shuttle service from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Book your Pearl Harbor tickets way in advance – like, the day you book your Hawaii trip.

Battleship Missouri Memorial Run Down:

• Who: Open to the public – all ages welcome (especially educational for kids and families)
• What: Special sunset ceremony honoring veterans with historical presentations and commemorative activities aboard the famous WWII battleship where Japan formally surrendered
• When: Veteran’s Day, 4:30-5:30 PM (sunset ceremony)
• Where: Battleship Missouri Memorial, Ford Island, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii
• If you don’t have Ford Island access: Free shuttle service available from Pearl Harbor Visitor Center

Things to Bring:

• Valid government-issued photo ID (required for Pearl Harbor entry)
• Camera for photos (photography allowed in most areas)
• Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be walking on ship decks)
• Light jacket or sweater (can get breezy on the water at sunset)
• Water bottle (staying hydrated, especially with kids)
• Sunglasses and hat for earlier arrival/waiting
• Small bag only (large bags/purses not permitted at Pearl Harbor)
• Cash for parking at Pearl Harbor Visitor Center if needed

This is a meaningful way to honor veterans while experiencing an important piece of WWII history firsthand.

Local Community Parades

The Wahiawa Lions Veteran’s Day Parade is perfect for families. It’s smaller, more intimate, and way easier to navigate with kids than the big Honolulu events.

Wahiawa Veteran’s Day Parade Details:

• Date: November 11 (Veteran’s Day)
• Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
• Location: Begins at Wahiawa District Park, winds through streets of Wahiawa to Ka’ala Elementary
• Details: Oldest and largest parade of its kind in Hawaii, hosted by Wahiawa Lions Club since 1940

What’s Actually Open on Veteran’s Day in Oahu

Parks, botanical gardens, municipal golf courses, and the Honolulu Zoo will be open on Veteran’s Day. Most restaurants and tourist attractions stay open too because, hello, tourism is Hawaii’s thing.

Pro tip: TheBus operates on a holiday schedule, and Skyline runs from 8 AM to 7 PM. Download the DaBus app if you’re planning to use public transport – it’s actually pretty good here!

Shopping and Activities

Ala Moana Center

Hawaii’s largest shopping mall stays open and often has special Veteran’s Day sales. Perfect for any last-minute vacation shopping or if you need a break from outdoor activities.

Beach Time

Because it’s Hawaii and the weather is perfect! Hit up:

• Kailua Beach – Powdery sand, calm waters, perfect for families
• Lanikai Beach – More secluded, gorgeous for photos
• Waikiki Beach – Classic, easy access, lots of amenities nearby

Insider Tips That’ll Make You Look Like a Pro

Traffic Reality: Veteran’s Day weekend can get busy around military areas. Leave extra time and have backup plans.

Cultural Respect: Hawaii has a huge military presence and deep respect for veteran’s. This isn’t just another day off – it’s meaningful here.

Weather Prep: November in Hawaii means trade winds. Bring light layers for kids – it can get breezy during outdoor ceremonies.

Photography Etiquette: Be respectful during ceremonies, but these events create incredible family memories. The backdrops are stunning – think American flags with palm trees!

Making It Educational (Without the Eye Rolls)

Turn Veteran’s Day into a learning experience:

• Visit the USS Arizona Memorial beforehand for context
• Read age-appropriate books about military service before your trip
• Let kids participate by making thank-you cards for veterans they meet

Where to Stay for Easy Access

• Waikiki: Central to everything, easy bus access to most events
• Kailua: Gorgeous but you’ll need a car for Veteran’s Day events
• Ko Olina: Family-friendly resorts, but further from main events

Real Mom Confessions

Look, I’ll be honest – the first Veteran’s Day ceremony I attended with all four boys, I totally teared up. It’s emotional, it’s beautiful, and it’s a side of Hawaii that goes way deeper than just beaches and mai tais.

My boys still talk about the flyovers, the honor guards, and meeting actual veterans. It was one of those parenting wins where they learned something important without even realizing it.

Don’t Forget the Photos!

Seriously though, Veteran’s Day events create some of the most meaningful family photos you’ll ever take. There’s something about kids learning to honor service members against the backdrop of paradise that just hits different.

The lighting during these late morning and early evening events? Perfection. The backgrounds? Stars, stripes, and palm trees. The expressions on your kids’ faces as they watch honor guards? Priceless.

That’s exactly why I love photographing families during these special Hawaii moments. It’s not just about pretty beach pictures – it’s about capturing the memories that matter. Check out more of my work at alisonbellphotographer.com and let’s plan something amazing for your family’s Hawaiian adventure!

Bottom Line

Veteran’s Day events on Oahu offers families a chance to experience something truly special – honoring heroes in paradise. It’s educational, meaningful, and creates memories that last way longer than any souvenir.

Plus, your kids will have the coolest “What I Did on Veteran’s Day” story when they get back to school. Because honestly? Not many kids can say they watched a sunset ceremony on a battleship in Hawaii.

Remember: Pack sunscreen, bring water, charge your camera, and prepare for some seriously meaningful family moments. And if you want those moments captured beautifully? You know where to find me! 📸

More to Things To Do on Oahu

• 
  Family Friendly Veteran’s Day Events 2025 On Oahu, Hawaii
• 
  Oahu July 4 Fireworks 2025: Where to Watch the Best Shows With Your Family
• 
  The Ultimate Things To Do In Kailua Hawaii: Perfect Day After Sunrise Beach Photos
• 
  Oahu Easter Events 2025: Spectacular Egg Hunts & Festivals
• 
  The Best Turtle Bay Photography for Families Oahu, Hawaii
• 
  Everything You Need To Know About Ko Olina, Oahu From Ko Olina Photographers and a MOM