Written by Veterans Day falls on Wednesday this year, and some of the biggest tributes are right next door. The week starts Sunday with a veterans softball tournament and builds to a full Nov. 11 lineup, including a 7 p.m. Villages High School concert at The Tracy in Middleton.
Sunday, Nov. 8
- Veterans Softball Tournament, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Soaring Eagle Softball Complex, 4390 Morse Blvd. The games include a moment of reflection and a tribute to veterans.
Wednesday, Nov. 11 (Veterans Day)
- Veterans Day Service, 11 a.m., Veterans Memorial Park at Spanish Springs.
- Veterans Day Boat Cruise, 1 p.m. to sunset, from the Lake Sumter Line dock at Lake Sumter Landing.
- A Tribute to Our Veterans, 5 p.m., on every town square: the National Anthem followed by each branch’s service song. Pick the square closest to you.
- VHS Veterans Day Concert, 7 p.m. (doors 6:30 p.m.), The Tracy Performing Arts Center, 2210 Dr. Randy McDaniel Way, Middleton. The Villages High School advanced choir ensembles and jazz ensemble perform, with a guest set from the Heart of Florida Barbershop Ensemble. General admission starts at $12; students and faculty are $5 with ID; children under 5 are free (claim child pricing in person). No bar service.
- Veteran savings: veterans get 25% off select ticketed shows at The Savannah Center and The Tracy on Nov. 11 only. Choose the “Veteran” ticket type online or ask at the box office.
- Wildwood Display of Honor: the City of Wildwood is honoring local veterans by name in a display at City Hall, 100 N. Main St.
- Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell: the cemetery holds its Veterans Day ceremonies in the main assembly area colonnade, 6502 SW 102nd Ave. Its office stays open on Veterans Day. Check with the cemetery (352-793-7740) for this year’s ceremony time.
Thursday, Nov. 12
- Movie night: Memphis Belle, 5 p.m., Farragut Softball Complex, 1288 Pearl Place. Free, but registration is required.
Good to know
Sumter County government offices are closed Wednesday, Nov. 11, for Veterans Day. Need help with VA benefits? Sumter County Veteran Services prepares claims at no charge, by appointment, at 7375 Powell Road in Wildwood (352-689-4400).
Are you a veteran or honoring one this week? Tell us where you’ll be in the comments.
Sources: The Villages: Veterans Day in The Villages, The Tracy: VHS Veterans Day Concert, Florida National Cemetery, Sumter County. Times and details can change; confirm with each organizer before you go.