Veterans Day Parade reaches 30th year in Burlington

The 30th annual Skagit County Veterans Day Parade & Tribute takes place on Saturday, Nov. 7, marking a milestone for the event. This year’s celebration includes a flyover, free meals for veterans, and the debut of the Skagit Veterans Fun Run. The parade begins at 11 a.m. with the national anthem and a flyover, as marchers line up at Walnut Street and travel along Fairhaven Avenue, finishing at Skagit Street. Skagit Ground Search and Rescue volunteers will pass out more than 1,000 mini American flags to spectators along the route, encouraging everyone to wave them.

The event also features a pancake breakfast from 8 to 10 a.m. at the American Legion Post 91, with veterans eating free at both the breakfast and the soup-and-sandwich lunch at noon. Everyone else is welcome to join in for a donation. Between meals, the Burlington Visitor Center will host free coffee and a military display put together by Post 91.

For the first time, the day starts with a run. Post 91 is hosting the Skagit Veterans Fun Run with help from Skagit Runners. Participants can choose a 2-mile route or a 5K, and run or walk, with both starting at 9 a.m. at the Burlington Visitor Center. Entry applications for the parade are still being accepted through Wednesday, Nov. 4, and the event sponsors include KAPS Country Radio, KBRC 102.9 FM/1430 AM, Skagit Valley Eagles #3242, and Stowes Shoes and Clothing.

The Skagit Veterans Fun Run registration closes at noon Friday, Nov. 6, and packet pickup will be available at Post 91 on Friday and at the visitor center on race morning. The run isn’t timed, but there will be a clock at the start and finish. Routes use open roads, so follow volunteers’ directions. All of the race registration money goes to American Legion Memorial Post 91, which serves veterans and their families across Skagit County, including those with low incomes or disabilities.