Veterans Day is observed every year on Nov. 11. It originally was called “Armistice Day” when President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed this holiday in November 1919. Armistice is when warring parties agree to stop fighting, and “Armistice Day” recognizes the end of World War I when hostilities ceased: on Nov. 11 at 11 a.m., 1918 (11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month).
Howard County celebrates and honors the men and women who have served and continue to serve, on Veteran’s Day and throughout November and December with a number of programs. Below is a list of upcoming events.

Wednesday, Nov. 8
“Howard County Chamber/GovConnects Salute to Veteran Luncheon.” 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. The Great Room at Savage Mill.
A special luncheon to honor veterans and hear the latest on development plans for Fort George G. Meade and how they will impact Howard County, featuring Ft. Meade’s Garrison Commander Col. Thomas S. Rickard.

Thursday, Nov. 9
“Veteran’s Day Waffle Bar.” 9:30 a.m. Bain 50+ Center. Free.
“Howard County Commission for Veterans and Military Families meeting.” 7 p.m. 6751 Columbia Gateway Drive.

Friday, Nov. 10
“Vet-in-School Pilot Kickoff at Howard High.” To encourage all schools to recognize Veteran’s Day, Leadership U, the Office of Veterans and Military Families, the Commission for Veterans and Military Families and county veteran service organizations have partnered to create a presentation for all social studies classes.
“Howard Community College Honors Veteran Students and Staff.” Horowitz Visual and Performing Arts (HVPA) Center. 10–11 a.m. Collecting for McVets.
“Columbia Association Veteran’s Celebration at the Columbia Lakefront.” Noon–1 p.m.
“Veterans Eat Free at Mission BBQ.” Standard open at 11a.m. Anthem Ceremony at noon. WWII vets eat free like any day of the year and free sandwiches and cake for vets all day.
“Donations Day at Columbia Yoga Center to Benefit Veterans.” 6–7:30 p.m. This will be a mixed-level donation class celebrating those who support our country through their military service. All proceeds will go to Warriors at Ease, whose mission is to train teachers to provide yoga and meditation services to military service members, veterans and their families worldwide. Parkridge Plaza Building, 8950 Route 108, Suite 109, Columbia

Saturday Nov. 11
“Blue Star Memorial Rededication.” 10 a.m. Old Town Ellicott City. The Howard County Garden Club installed and dedicated the Blue Star Memorial in May 2013. During the Flood of July 30, 2016, the boulder and plaque were washed away. The plaque was found and returned about six weeks later, but not the boulder. The rededication will take place in front of the Welcome Center. A reception will follow inside. All are invited.
“St. Paul’s Catholic Church Veteran Memorial Service.” 11:11 a.m. followed by a “military version” chow-line luncheon. Old Town Ellicott City.
“Veteran’s Day Parade in Historic Ellicott City.” 1 p.m. Ellicott City Partnership is looking for participants, www.visitoldellicottcity.com/ec-partnership.

Sunday, Nov. 12
“Veteran’s Day/Marine Corp Birthday Celebration.” 5:30–10:30 p.m. VFW Post 7472 in Ellicott City. Email [email protected] for ticket information.

Through Nov. 15
“Made With Love Hat and Scarf Collection Drive.” Knit or crochet a hat or scarf for a deployed service member. For drop-off information, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/veterans.

Friday, Nov. 17
“Leadership Howard County Hosts Mission BBQ: Supporting Those Who Serve, Luncheon and Gift Drive.” 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. The Meeting House. Mission BBQ founder Bill Krause will share his story of building a business that honors and supports military service members, veterans and first responders. Annual gift drive will support Fisher House at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, with donations of gift cards and other items for families of service members.

Thursdays, Dec. 7 & 14
“Symphony of Lights Military Appreciation Days.” 6:30–10:30 p.m. Columbia. $10/vehicle with valid military ID; not valid with other discounts.

Saturday, Dec. 16
“Wreaths Across America.” Noon at St. John Lutheran Church, 6004 Waterloo Rd., Columbia. Noon at Crest Lawn Memorial Gardens, Marriottsville.