The interrogative phrase seeks a specific temporal noun: the date for the annual observance. In the United States, this federal holiday is statutorily set for November 11. For the current year, 2024, Veterans Day falls on Monday, November 11.
The date's significance is rooted in the armistice that ended World War I, which went into effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. Originally established as Armistice Day, the holiday was renamed in 1954 to honor veterans of all U.S. wars. Unlike many federal holidays that were moved to create three-day weekends under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, Veterans Day was returned to its fixed November 11 date in 1978 due to its profound historical importance, emphasizing its connection to a specific historical event.
The fixed nature of the date has practical implications for its observance. When November 11 falls on a Saturday, the federal holiday is typically observed on the preceding Friday. If it falls on a Sunday, the observance is moved to the following Monday. This administrative rule ensures that a dedicated day for national recognition, including federal closures and ceremonies, is maintained even when the anniversary falls on a weekend.
