It’s a big weekend for veterans.

Saturday marks the first of what will be three days of commemorations for those who have served our country.

Just one event was the Veterans Day parade in downtown grand junction.

Main Street was lined with hundreds of people Saturday afternoon.  That’s because Grand Junction hosts the third largest Veterans Day parade in the state.

Marching bands, honor guards, and veterans on Harley’s are just some the things spectators saw at this year's parade.

For many people watching, this event is a tradition.

They say they'll always give their support on Veterans Day to those who've served our nation.

“I think it’s very important that we support our troops, the ones in the past,in the future, and present. Without them we wouldn't have the America we have now,” Debbie Gonzales said.

“It shows appreciation for them defending our country and letting us be free,” Tiara Knoblich said.

Several veterans and current soldiers participated in the parade. Other supporting veterans watched from the crowd.

This is a growing event that draws more people downtown every year.

There are more celebrations planned for the rest of the holiday weekend.

Veterans Day is on Sunday but is being observed on Monday. 

Keep in mind, that means most government offices and banks will be closed for the holiday.