As your trusted partner at North Point Realty, I believe it’s important to pause and reflect with our community on the meaning of Veterans Day — especially here in Collin County, Texas, where so many families have ties to military service.
Let’s explore what Veterans Day is about, how it’s observed, and what’s happening locally to honour our veterans.
The Purpose & History
November 11 holds its significance for several key reasons:
The date marks the armistice that ended the major hostilities of the Armistice of 11 November 1918 (the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month) — essentially the end of the fighting in World War I on the Western Front.
The U.S. originally observed November 11 as Armistice Day, dedicated to the veterans of World War I. (Veterans Affairs)
In 1954, the name was changed to “Veterans Day” to honour all American veterans — those who served in wartime and peacetime.
There was a time (1971–77) when the holiday was moved to a Monday—under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act—but because of the historical importance of November 11, it was returned to that date in 1978.
In short, Veterans Day is not the same as Memorial Day. Memorial Day honours those who died in service; Veterans Day honours all who have served honorably.
The purpose? To express gratitude, to reflect on service and sacrifice, and to encourage us as citizens to support veterans in practical, meaningful ways. As a real-estate professional, I see many families whose lives are enriched by the contributions of veterans — whether that’s a parent, grandparent, or neighbor who served.
How People Observe Veterans Day
There are several common customs and observances associated with Veterans Day:
Ceremonies, wreath-layings, parades, and memorials across the country.<br>Moments of silence — often at 11:00 a.m. on November 11 — in remembrance of the moment the armistice took effect.
Displaying the American flag, thanking veterans personally, and reaching out to local veterans’ groups or chapters.
Many businesses offer promotions or free meals for veterans and active military personnel. (For example: in the Dallas/Frisco area, a steakhouse group is offering a complimentary entrée for veterans on Nov 11.)
If you’re a homeowner or potential buyer/seller in our region: this day also presents an opportunity. If your listing or community is near a veterans’ memorial, consider mentioning it in marketing — many buyers appreciate neighborhoods with a strong sense of community and respect for service.
What’s Happening in Collin County, TX
Since our focus is north of Dallas and includes communities like Allen, Frisco, McKinney, Plano and beyond, here are a few local observances worth noting:
- McKinney, A special Veterans Day ceremony will take place at the Corporal R&D Foster Veterans Memorial Park. Beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 8. This includes a memorial marker dedication.
- Frisco: A ceremony coordinated by American Legion Post 178.
Saturday, November 8 at 11:00 a.m.
Location: Veterans’ Memorial in Frisco Commons Park. - In general, for Collin County: According to a community summary, prior years have included “Flags of Honor” displays (in Plano), community parades in Frisco, and concerts or special events to honour veterans.
- Celina: A free 3-mile “Veterans Day Ruck March”
November 11 at 8:30 a.m.
Open to all ages, organized in the spirit of community and service.
Thank you, Glenn Johnson, for these photographs!
Even in nearby counties, you’ll find significant monuments and memorials. For example, in Sulphur Springs the county veterans memorial at Church Street hosts parades and serves as a gathering point.
Connecting to Home-Buying & Community Life
Many veterans become homeowners as part of their transition to civilian life. We help you find homes for VA loans, proximity to veteran services, walkability, and community support.
- A neighborhood that honours veterans with ceremonies or features a veterans’ memorial can signal a strong, patriotic, close-knit community — something VA buyers often appreciate.
- From a homeowner’s perspective, the holiday is a moment to reflect on the service of others. Think about the freedoms we enjoy — including owning a home in a stable community with strong values.
Final Thoughts
On November 11, as our country honours those who have served, we hope all of us in Collin County will take a moment of sincere reflection. Whether by attending a local ceremony, saying “thank you” to a veteran you know, or simply pausing at 11 a.m. in quiet gratitude.
Service and sacrifice matter. Community matters. And the neighbourhoods we build and live in are stronger when we remember those who served.
Let us know if you’d like us to help coordinate a Veterans Day community-themed event for your neighbourhood. Norma Wall – North Point Realty — Allen, Texas
US Holidays – When to fly the flag.
Key Events
Veterans Memorial in Frisco Commons Park – Frisco, Texas
- Saturday, November 8, at 11:00 a.m.
8000 McKinney Road, Frisco, TX 75033. Frisco
American Legion Post 178 (Peter J. Courcy Post) friscolegion.org
Details: Ceremony open to the public: features a veteran keynote speaker and community band.
Corporal R.D. Foster Veterans Memorial Park – McKinney, Texas
- Saturday, November 8, at 11:00 a.m.
Location: 6053 Weiskopf Ave., McKinney, TX 75070.
Host: McKinney Armed Services Memorial Board, McKinney.
Public ceremony honouring veterans followed by a memorial marker dedication.
Celina, Texas – Veterans Day Ruck March
- Tuesday, November 11, at 8:30 a.m.<br>Location: Old Celina Park, 12670 FM-428, Celina, TX 75009.<br>Free 3-mile military-themed “ruck march” open to all ages; registration required and finisher patch awarded.
Note: Great for active/fitness-oriented community members.
Plano, Texas – Veterans Day Luncheon
- Tuesday, November 11, at 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Carpenter Park Recreation Center, 6701 Coit Road, Plano, TX 75024.
Lunch provided, celebrates and honours veterans—registration required.
Note: Nice “lighter” event—good for families or older adults who prefer a communal indoor setting.