Honoring Our Heroes: Veterans Day Events and Memorials in Lake Charles
In the midst of the holiday whirlwind—from Halloween treats to Thanksgiving feasts and Christmas cheer—Veterans Day offers a vital moment to pause and express gratitude to those who selflessly sacrificed their time, bodies, families, and lives. Their service ensures we enjoy these celebrations in peace and freedom.
Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana host inspiring events and organizations, allowing you to commemorate Veterans Day weekend while paying tribute to those who served.
City of Lake Charles Veterans Day Celebration
November 10, 2018
The City of Lake Charles Mayor’s Armed Forces Commission hosts the annual Veterans Day observance at the Arcade Amphitheater on the Lakefront at 11 a.m., following the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk starting at 8 a.m. New activities draw larger crowds in this updated venue, featuring a concert by the Lake Charles Community Band. Guest speaker: Colonel Lee Burnett, Commander of the 115th Combat Support Hospital (CSH).
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Veterans Day Avenue of Flags
November 11, 2018
Hundreds of volunteers annually gather at Orange Grove-Graceland Cemetery to erect the Avenue of Flags—a cherished Lake Charles tradition for over 30 years and the largest memorial flag display in the U.S., symbolizing profound patriotism.
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Veterans Memorial Park, Open Year-Round
Along the boardwalk by the Lake Charles Civic Center, this park honors service members since WWI with engraved bricks. Highlights include a WWII Patton Tank, Vietnam-era Huey Helicopter, 8-inch Howitzer M115 cannon, a statue of Medal of Honor recipient First Lt. Douglas B. Fournet (Lake Charles native), and a lakeside fountain with bronze plaques of all Louisiana Medal of Honor recipients.
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City of Refuge Veterans Homeless Shelter of Vinton
This accredited 501(c)(3) nonprofit, sustained by private donations, provides shelter for homeless veterans (and others when space allows) under military-style rules. Meals are available anytime for those in need. Founded in 1986 by Burton “Burt” Stigen (Bro. Burt) and Denise Stigen.
Support City of Refuge Veterans Homeless Shelter this Veterans Day weekend through these events:
Red White and Blue Bash at Blue Martini, Golden Nugget
November 11, 2018
Public welcome as part of the Bayou Renegade Rally. Enjoy DJ Jose Mata, Three Thirty Seven Band, and Gyth Rigdon, plus beer/drink specials and grilled burgers/hot dogs. A portion of food & beverage proceeds benefits the Vinton shelter.
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Bayou Renegade Rally through No Man's Land
November 9-12, 2018
This new motorcycle rally brings enthusiasts from Shreveport to Lake Charles on November 11, blending patriotic events with Louisiana's hospitality, culture, music, and cuisine.
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