4 Great Ways to Celebrate Armed Forces Day in Chicagoland

Armed Forces Day is a national holiday that honors all branches of the military. Thank those who have served their country by participating in one of the local events taking place around Chicagoland on Saturday, May 20.

1. Visit the Burr Ridge Veterans Memorial
7660 County Line Rd, Burr Ridge

On May 20 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Burr Ridge will host an Armed Forces Day celebration at the Veterans Memorial Site. Stop by to view the memorial and honor the veterans in your community at this free event.

2. Participate in the Hope Walk
3053 W Franklin Blvd, Chicago

The Volunteers of America of Illinois provide support to hundreds of local veterans and veteran families who are at risk of becoming homeless, and their annual Hope Walk supports these efforts. The Armed Forces Day event begins with check-in from 9:45 a.m. to 10:15 a.m., followed by a continental breakfast at 10:15 a.m. before the walk commences at 10:30 a.m. A veteran vs. civilian basketball game is also scheduled for 11:30 a.m.

3. Attend the Armed Forces Day Dinner
495 Lee St, Des Plaines

The Des Plaines Elk Lodge No. 1526 is hosting an Armed Forces Day Dinner on May 20 at 6 p.m. The public is welcome to attend the meal to meet and thank veterans. Dinner is $31 per person and includes a family-style meal with chicken, sea bass, and London broil as well as an assortment of satisfying sides. Reservations are required.

The Lodge is about 45 minutes from Springs at Orchard Road and Springs at Weber Road. If you’d prefer to skip the drive back after your meal, the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites is offering discounted room rates for the evening.

4. Check Out Armed Forces Weekend at Navy Pier
600 E Grand Ave, Chicago

For Armed Forces Weekend, the Pier Park Operations Manager, Clinton, will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest Ferris wheel ride, staying in a gondola for 30 hours. You can ride with Clinton for $25, or board your own gondola for a suggested donation of $3. Proceeds go to the USO.

Other festivities include a military band, salute ceremony, and live broadcasting from KISS FM and B96. Military personnel and their families receive a family fun pack with special wristbands for discounts and freebies throughout the event.

How are you planning to celebrate Armed Forces Day? Share your plans and ideas with fellow Springs residents in the comments section below!