Veterans Day is Monday, Nov. 11. Here are a number of events taking place across the Twin Cities to honor those who have served the country in war and peace.

The day was originally called Armistice Day marking the end of World War I. However, after World War II and the Korean War, the day was renamed “Veterans” Day through an act of Congress as a way to honor all who served.

Meanwhile, post offices, banks, and federal offices are closed in observance of the day. In general, restaurants and stores are open, but consumers should check the hours of the businesses in their area.

Here’s a listing of events:

Monday

The Official State of Minnesota Veterans Day Program is scheduled for 10 a.m. at the Minnesota National Guard Ben Franklin Readiness Center, at 1536 Ben Franklin Street, in Arden Hills. Veterans, families, elected officials and community members are invited. Among those attending will be Veterans Affair Commissioner Brad Lindsay, Adjutant General of the Minnesota National Guard Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke; Executive Director of the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness Jeff Olivet, as well as members of the Congressional delegation, and state and local officials. Also on hand will be the 34th Infantry Division Red Bull Band and 34th Infantry Division Chaplain Col. Buddy Winn. A breakfast and social time will start at 8:30 a.m. ahead of the program.

A Veterans Day event will be held at 11 a.m. at North St. Paul Veterans Park at 2480 Margaret Street, North St. Paul. A rifle salute, “Taps” and a flag program will take place. Preparations begin at 10:45 AM.

The American Legion Post 39 of North St. Paul will provide an honor guard at several events in the east metro. At 10:30 a.m. they will be at the Polar Ridge Care Center, in North St. Paul; at noon at the North St. Paul Veterans Memorial Park; at 1 p.m. at Maplewood Rehabilitation Center, located at 1900 Sherran Ave., in Maplewood; and at 2 p.m. at Achieve Language Academy, 2169 Stillwater Ave., in St. Paul.

A flag retirement ceremony will take place at 5:30 p.m. at the Mayfield Senior Living Community, 2850 Market Place Drive, Little Canada. The ceremony will be held in the company of veterans and residents who live at the facility. Led by Girl Scout ambassador and Senior Troop 56864 with Girl Scouts from other Minnesota and Wisconsin River Valleys Troops, the event will feature a final tribute for the well-worn United States flag that has flown over the Mayfield for more than a decade. The ceremony will follow guidelines established by the Girls Scouts of the USA.

The West Point Glee Club is performing a free concert in honor of Veterans Day at 4 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, at 1200 Marquette Ave., in Minneapolis. No tickets required.

Monday through Nov. 30

The Minnesota Zoo is offering special ticket pricing from Monday to Nov. 30. On Veterans Day veterans and active military personnel receive free admission and parking. Their immediate family members (up to six individuals) receive 50% off admission. And, from Tuesday through Nov. 30, there is a 50% off admission for veterans, active military personnel, and their immediate family members (up to six). This does not include parking. Tickets must be obtained online prior to arrival at mnzoo.org/militarypromo/.

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