Long Beach Veterans Day Free Meals Events And Attractions Complete Guide To 2022 Offers

Veterans Day is a significant occasion for honoring and appreciating the service of military veterans and active-duty personnel across the United States. In Long Beach, California, the community demonstrates its gratitude through various special offers, events, and complimentary services. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the available freebies, discounts, and celebrations in Long Beach during Veterans Day 2022, focusing on dining opportunities, community events, and attraction discounts specifically designed to honor those who have served.

Background on Veterans Day

Veterans Day, observed on November 11 annually, originated in 1919 as Armistice Day to mark the one-year anniversary of the end of World War I. The date of November 11 holds particular significance as it represents the moment when fighting between Allied nations and Germany ceased on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. In 1954, U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the name to Veterans Day. Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who lost their lives in military service, Veterans Day pays tribute to all veterans—those who have served, are currently serving, and those who have passed away.

Free Meals at Long Beach Restaurants

Several restaurants in Long Beach participate in Veterans Day celebrations by offering complimentary meals or discounts to military personnel. These establishments recognize the sacrifices made by veterans and active-duty service members through special dining promotions. To redeem these offers, veterans and active-duty personnel must present valid military identification.

Acapulco Restaurant & Cantina

Acapulco Restaurant & Cantina provides a free meal to veterans and active-duty military personnel on Veterans Day, Friday, November 11. The complimentary meal consists of a three-item combo with selections including tacos, enchiladas, chicken taquitos, chicken tamale, or chile relleno. This offer is available to those with valid military identification and represents a substantial value as it includes multiple menu items at no cost.

Solita Tacos & Margaritas

Solita Tacos & Margaritas, known for its Baja-style Mexican cuisine and handcrafted margaritas, offers a 20% discount to veterans and active service members on Veterans Day. Patrons must present their military ID to receive this discount. The restaurant encourages interested parties to make reservations in advance to ensure availability during the busy holiday period.

California Pizza Kitchen

California Pizza Kitchen participates in Veterans Day appreciation by offering veterans and active-duty military personnel a complimentary non-alcoholic beverage and an entree selected from a prix-fixe menu. The menu includes salads, pizza, and pasta options. Upsells and additional items are not included in this offer. It is important to note that this promotion is not valid at franchise locations in stadiums, universities, or airports. Valid military identification is required to receive the complimentary items.

Veterans Day Celebration at Houghton Park

The City of Long Beach hosts its annual Veterans Day Celebration at Houghton Park, located at 6301 Myrtle Avenue. This free, family-friendly event is designed to celebrate and honor veterans and those currently serving in the U.S. military. The event features a recognition ceremony, live entertainment, food vendors, and various activities suitable for all ages.

Event Details

The 2022 Veterans Day Celebration takes place on Saturday, November 8, from noon to 4 p.m. This timing allows the community to gather and pay respects before the official Veterans Day on November 11. Mayor Rex Richardson emphasized the significance of the occasion, stating that "Veterans Day serves as a reminder that our freedoms were secured through courage, sacrifice and service."

Activities and Features

The celebration offers a diverse range of activities and attractions:

• Formal ceremony with guest speakers recognizing local service members
• Patriotic performances and live music
• Veterans and community resources fair featuring more than 25 participating organizations
• Food trucks and a beer garden
• Kids zone with age-appropriate activities
• Bootcamp-style obstacle course
• Flyovers with historic aircraft
• Flu shots provided by the Department of Health and Human Services

Ninth District Councilmember Joni Ricks-Oddie highlighted the importance of veterans in the community, stating, "Veterans remind us what service truly means. Here in North Long Beach, we're proud to have so many veterans who continue to serve and strengthen our community."

Event Organization

The Veterans Day Celebration is presented by the City of Long Beach in partnership with the Office of Veterans Support, the Long Beach Veterans Commission, and the Long Beach Veterans Day Committee. This collaborative effort ensures a well-organized and meaningful event that addresses the needs and interests of veterans and their families.

Free Admission at Local Attractions

Several attractions in the Long Beach area offer free admission to veterans and active-duty military personnel on Veterans Day. These opportunities provide veterans and their families with entertainment and educational experiences at no cost.

Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific, located in Long Beach, provides complimentary admission to veterans and active-duty military personnel who present valid service identification. It is important to note that advance reservations are required to receive this free admission. The aquarium typically features exhibits on marine life, conservation efforts, and oceanic environments, offering an educational experience suitable for all ages.

Battleship IOWA

While not specifically offering free admission mentioned in the sources, the Battleship IOWA in San Pedro (near Long Beach) hosts a Veterans Day event called "Football on the Fantail." This afternoon event, beginning at 12:30 PM, features a social mixer, kids STEM zone, and the opportunity to watch the Rams vs. 49ers game on the fantail of the historic battleship. The event includes food from Vicky's Doghouse (hot dogs, wings, and beer) and special halftime veteran shout-outs. This represents a unique way for veterans to enjoy the holiday with community members and fellow service personnel.

Additional Veterans Day Events and Parades

In addition to the main celebration at Houghton Park, Long Beach hosts other Veterans Day events that bring the community together to honor military service.

Veterans Day Parade

Long Beach holds a Veterans Day Parade that rolls down Jeff Davis Avenue at 1:30 p.m. The parade provides a visible demonstration of community appreciation for veterans and active-duty personnel. Following the parade, activities continue at the Town Green from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., offering additional opportunities for celebration and recognition.

Community Resources

The Veterans Day Celebration at Houghton Park includes a resources fair with more than 25 participating organizations. This aspect of the event is particularly valuable as it connects veterans and their families with available services, support systems, and community resources. The presence of various organizations ensures that attendees can access information on benefits, healthcare, employment opportunities, and other services relevant to veterans.

Health Services Available

During the Veterans Day Celebration at Houghton Park, the Department of Health and Human Services offers flu shots to attendees. This service addresses an important health need, particularly as we approach the flu season. The availability of vaccinations at a community event demonstrates a comprehensive approach to veteran care that goes beyond ceremonial recognition to include practical health support.

Planning Your Veterans Day Experience in Long Beach

For those planning to participate in Long Beach's Veterans Day celebrations, several considerations can enhance the experience:

1. Identification: Veterans and active-duty personnel should bring valid military identification to redeem restaurant offers and attraction discounts.

2. Reservations: Some participating restaurants, like Solita Tacos & Margaritas, recommend making reservations in advance due to expected high demand.

3. Event Timing: The main celebration at Houghton Park occurs on November 8, while Veterans Day itself is November 11. Some restaurant offers are specifically for November 11.

4. Accessibility: The events at Houghton Park are designed to be family-friendly with activities for all ages, including a kids zone and accessible resources fair.

5. Health Precautions: Flu shots are available at the Houghton Park event for those interested in receiving vaccination.

Conclusion

Long Beach offers a comprehensive approach to Veterans Day recognition through dining specials, community celebrations, and attraction discounts. The city's events demonstrate a deep appreciation for military service through both ceremonial recognition and practical support. From free meals at local restaurants to the large-scale celebration at Houghton Park, veterans and active-duty personnel have numerous opportunities to feel valued by their community. The combination of formal ceremonies, family-friendly activities, resources fairs, and health services creates a multifaceted observance that addresses different aspects of the veteran experience. For those seeking to participate, bringing valid military identification and checking specific requirements for each venue will ensure a smooth experience during these meaningful celebrations.

Sources

1. 5 Veterans Day Specials You Can Get In Long Beach
2. Veterans Day in Long Beach
3. Long Beach's annual Veterans Day Celebration will return to Houghton Park this weekend
4. 2024 Veterans Day Discounts & Free Meals
5. List of Veterans Day events, deals & celebrations happening across the coast