Meadowbrook Elementary Hosts Veterans Drive-Thru Parade
Hundreds of students cheered as about 30 veterans' vehicles drove through the school's drive-thru loop ahead of Veterans Day.
Updated on Nov. 11, 2026 in Civic
Meadowbrook Elementary held its third annual Veterans Drive-Thru Parade on November 10, 2026. Hundreds of students lined the drive-thru loop, holding signs, banners and flags as veterans drove past.
Why it matters
The school moved the event earlier than Veterans Day to make it easier for veterans with other Veterans Day commitments to attend. The celebration teaches students to show appreciation for those who served and to take part in their community.
About 30 vehicles driven by veterans or carrying veteran passengers took part in the event, which marked the third year of the parade. Next year's date and format have not been set, as the school is only beginning planning within a few weeks.
The details
Students prepared handmade signs and lined the curbs of the drive-thru loop in front of the school. Veterans drove slowly through the loop along a route starting at the corner of Argyle and West St. Anne streets as students cheered and waved.
Timeline
Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026: Meadowbrook Elementary holds its third annual Veterans Drive-Thru Parade.
Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026: Veterans Day is observed the day after the parade.
Within a few weeks: The school begins planning next year's celebration.
Civic Context
Veterans Day, observed each November 11, is the national holiday that recognizes military veterans, and schools often mark it with assemblies and ceremonies. Meadowbrook's decision to hold its parade a day earlier reflects a local effort to fit community honors around the crowded schedule of Veterans Day events in Rapid City.
Rapid City veterans and families with students at Meadowbrook Elementary can expect the school to plan a similar event next year. Residents who want to honor veterans can take part by lining the route or attending school celebrations.
The takeaway
Showing appreciation for veterans can start with simple community actions, like cheering for them as they pass by. Families can encourage children to learn why Veterans Day matters and take part in local events.
What happens next
The school will begin planning next year's Veterans Drive-Thru Parade within a few weeks.
Further reading
Explore more local civic news to see how Rapid City residents are recognizing veterans and community service.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Rapid City Journal.
