Seasonal & Holidays
Veterans Day 2020: What's Open, Closed In Providence
Originally called "Armistice Day," the holiday was created to honor those who served in World War I.
PROVIDENCE, RI — Veterans Day is Wednesday, marking a day of remembrance for all those who have served the country in the United State military. Originally called Armistice Day, the holiday was created at the end of World War I to recognize those who fought in “the war to end all wars,” according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Its origin is tied to the armistice, a temporary end of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany signed in France on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.
It became Veterans Day in 1954, shortly after the end of the Korean War and less than a decade after World War II, after various veterans service organizations urged Congress to encompass veterans of all wars in their honor.
Find out what's happening in Providencefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
With some ceremonies, parades and presentations either canceled or altered in 2020 due to the coronavirus crisis, restaurants and other businesses will continue to show their appreciation for veterans and active military members.
Applebee’s, Chili’s Grill and Bar and more are among the national restaurant chains offering free or discounted meals for veterans on Nov. 11, and 7-Eleven is offering a free cup of coffee or Big Gulp. Other places have offers extended throughout November.
Find out what's happening in Providencefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Veterans Day is somewhat related to, and sometimes mistaken for, Memorial Day, the federal holiday on the final Monday of May that is dedicated to those who have died while serving the United States in war.
Here's a look at what's open and closed in the state this Veterans Day.
- State-run coronavirus test sites: Closed
- Retail stores: Open at owner's discretion
- Liquor stores: Open
- Supermarkets: Open
- Convenience stores: Open
- Restaurants, bars: Open
- Banks: Closed
- Libraries: Closed
- Stock market: Open
- Municipal, state, federal offices: Closed
- Mail: Post offices closed; express delivery only
- RIPTA: Sunday/Holiday schedule
- Trash Collection: Most towns with pickup are delayed by one day. Check with your local public works department if you're unsure.
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