Honoring the Greatest Generation this Labor Day
This Labor Day, our community will come together for a truly special occasion — the Greatest Generation Celebration 2025. From September 1–7, Grand Rapids and the surrounding area will host a series of events honoring the men and women who lived through World War II and helped shape the world we know today.
The celebration marks the 80th anniversary of the war’s end, and it offers all of us the opportunity to reflect, remember, and say thank you to the veterans and home-front heroes whose service and sacrifice defined a generation.
Provided by Sophie de Marsac Campau Chapter, NSDAR, of Grand Rapids
A Community Tribute
The Greatest Generation Celebration is more than a series of events. It is a chance for all of us — families, veterans, and neighbors — to pause and reflect on the values of courage, sacrifice, and resilience of the generation we get to work with every day. This Labor Day, as bells ring and planes fly overhead, we honor not only the victory of 1945, but also the spirit of unity that continues to inspire us today.
Celebration Highlights
Honor Parade & Flyover (Sept. 1)
The festivities begin on Labor Day with a moving parade through downtown Grand Rapids, featuring vintage military vehicles, veterans, and community groups. As the parade concludes, WWII aircraft will soar overhead in a breathtaking flyover — a reminder of the courage and sacrifice that won peace 80 years ago.Bell Ringing Ceremony (Sept. 1)
That evening, bells will ring across the city at 8:08 p.m., echoing the exact moment the war officially came to a close. It’s a powerful symbol of unity and remembrance.Lecture Series (Sept. 2–4)
Throughout the week, renowned historians and authors — including Rick Atkinson, Garrett Graff, Sir Antony Beevor, and Susan Eisenhower — will share their insights into the history and legacy of WWII. These conversations are free to attend with registration and promise to be both thought-provoking and inspiring.Convocation of Remembrance (Sept. 2)
At Saint Andrew’s Cathedral, leaders from across faith traditions will gather for an interfaith service of prayer and reflection. All are welcome to join in honoring the lives lost and the peace that followed.Greatest Generation Night at the Whitecaps (Sept. 2)
Baseball fans can enjoy an evening at LMCU Ballpark, where the first 1,000 attendees will receive commemorative caps, and the game will feature special tributes to veterans.Cinematic Salute Film Festival (Sept. 5–7)
Classic wartime films will be shown at Studio Park downtown, including Flags of Our Fathers, The Great Dictator, The Great Escape, and Casablanca. Gather with friends, bring a chair, and enjoy these timeless stories under the open sky.Victory Celebration! at the Air Zoo (Sept. 6)
The week culminates with a high-energy evening in Kalamazoo — swing music, dancing, vintage aircraft, and a keynote from Naval History historian Guy Nasuti. Guests are encouraged to dress in 1940s style, making it a night of history, remembrance, and celebration.
