Communities across Central Oregon are coming together this Tuesday to celebrate Veterans Day with parades, ceremonies, and special community gatherings.
From early morning flag installations in Bend to heartfelt parades in Redmond, Prineville, La Pine, Madras, and Warm Springs, each event honors the service and sacrifice of America’s veterans.
Here’s a full guide to every event, including times, routes, and community highlights.
Bend: Parade of Flags & Veterans Day Parade
The day in Bend begins early with a Parade of Flags organized by the Bend Heroes Foundation.
At 7:00 a.m., volunteers and students from the Bend High School football team will install hundreds of American flags along the Veterans Day Parade route, including Bond Street, Greenwood Avenue, and the Veterans Memorial Bridge.
Later, at 11:00 a.m., the Bend Veterans Day Parade officially begins. The parade starts at Harmon Park, travels north on Harmon Boulevard, east along Newport Avenue, then turns south down Wall Street to finish at Drake Park.
This year’s parade theme is “Service to Nation and Community”, and participants include veterans’ groups, marching bands, local businesses, and community volunteers.
Redmond: A Downtown Tradition
The Redmond Veterans Day Parade will also step off at 11:00 a.m. in downtown Redmond along 6th Street. Residents are encouraged to line the sidewalks and wave flags as veterans, first responders, and community groups march by.
Local schools and youth programs will join the celebration, showing appreciation to those who have served the nation.
Prineville: Hometown Pride
Prineville’s Veterans Day Parade starts at 11:00 a.m., moving along Fourth Street from Main Street to Elm Street. The event is expected to feature local VFW members, community floats, classic cars, and live patriotic music.
Families are encouraged to arrive early to find the best viewing spots near downtown intersections.
La Pine: Ceremony & Chili Feed
La Pine will host its Veterans Day ceremony at the La Pine Activity Center beginning at 11:00 a.m. Following the event, a chili feed will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., offering free hot meals for veterans and community members.
The day will feature local speakers, color guards, and musical performances honoring all branches of the armed forces.
Madras: Community Celebration
In Madras, the Veterans Day celebration kicks off at 10:30 a.m. at the Jefferson County Community and Senior Center.
A short ceremony will be followed by lunch at noon and a fun community bingo session at 1:00 p.m. Veterans, families, and community supporters are all invited to attend.
Warm Springs: Parade & Lunch
The Warm Springs Veterans Day Parade begins at 11:00 a.m. at the Old Boys Dorm. The parade route circles past the Fire and Safety building and the Veterans Memorial at the courthouse, ending at the Old School Cafeteria.
Afterward, at 12:00 p.m., attendees can enjoy a free lunch at the Old Warm Springs Elementary Cafeteria.
Quick Event
| Location | Start Time | Main Event | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bend | 7:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. | Flag installation & Veterans Parade | Theme: Service to Nation and Community |
| Redmond | 11:00 a.m. | Downtown parade on 6th Street | Schools & veterans groups participate |
| Prineville | 11:00 a.m. | Parade from Main Street to Elm Street | Floats, bands, and community entries |
| La Pine | 11:00 a.m. | Ceremony at Activity Center | Chili feed 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. |
| Madras | 10:30 a.m. | Celebration at Senior Center | Lunch & bingo after ceremony |
| Warm Springs | 11:00 a.m. | Parade & meal celebration | Lunch served at noon |
What to Know Before You Go
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially along main streets in Bend and Redmond.
- Dress warmly, as morning temperatures in Central Oregon can be chilly.
- Parking is limited near parade routes—plan extra time or use public transport if available.
- Bring small flags or patriotic signs to show your support.
- All events are free and family-friendly.
From Bend’s Flag Parade to Madras’s community lunch, Central Oregon is set to honor its veterans with heartfelt gratitude and unity.
These events celebrate the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of those who served. Whether you attend a parade, wave a flag, or simply thank a veteran, your presence helps keep the spirit of Veterans Day alive.
Take time this Tuesday to honor those who made freedom possible.