Mission Statement: To honor and support our veterans while fostering a sense of unity and patriotism within the El Dorado community through events, activities, and recognitions upholding the values of freedom, courage, and unity for generations to come.



The Celebration of Freedom committee consists of volunteers who donate their time and resources to support our veterans. A week of events each November honors the brave men and women who have selflessly served our great nation. The events celebrate their dedication and sacrifice, and allows the community to stand together, committed to supporting those who have given so much for our freedom. The events include a Parade, Salute to Veterans, Veteran of the Year and more!

Through our events, services, and donations, we strive to foster a spirit of unity, patriotism, and gratitude within our community. We believe in giving back to those who have given so much, and today is a perfect example of that commitment.

We could not offer these events in recognition of our Veterans without the work of numerous volunteers and the support of so many generous donors, along with the participation of the community. Together, we can continue to honor our Veterans and ensure they receive the care and recognition they so richly deserve.

In addition to the November events, the Celebration of Freedom is proud to be partnering with Kevlar K-9 and our generous donors since 2024 to provide service dogs to Veterans in need. Kevlar K-9 provides highly trained service animals to Veterans, helping them manage PTSD, anxiety, and other challenges they may face. These service dogs are more than companions; they are lifelines, offering support, independence, and a renewed sense of purpose. Service animals play an incredibly important role in the lives of Veterans. They assist with daily tasks, provide emotional support, and help manage the symptoms of PTSD. These dogs are trained to sense anxiety, offer comfort during panic attacks, and even wake Veterans from nightmares. But more than that, they offer something intangible—a sense of security, companionship, and hope. For many Veterans, these animals are the key to regaining their independence and reintegrating into society.

For more information follow the committee's Facebook page @CelebrationofFreedomKS. To be part of this dedicated committee and events, please get in touch with the El Dorado Chamber of Commerce office or email celebrationoffreedomeldo@gmail.com.

2025 Schedule of Events (tentative):

November 3-7 – Veterans visiting schools

November 8 – VFW Breakfast from 8 to 10 a.m.; Parade at 11 a.m.; hot dog feed and activities in Gordy Park at 11:30 a.m.; and WWII Reenactment at 1 p.m. at the Kansas Oil Museum

November 9 – Elks Chicken and Noodle Lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Butler Bands Musical Salute to Veterans at 7 p.m. at the Hubbard Welcome Center

November 11 – Salute to Veterans and Veteran of the Year at 10:15 a.m. at First Christian Church; Spotlight on Youth Elks Essay Contest, EMS Concert & Ice Cream Social at 7 p.m. at the PAC

Special Thank you to our Partners!