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Green Porch Lights for Veterans 2026: How to Join In Before Veterans Day
A $7.99 two-pack of bulbs is one way to join a growing show of support for U.S. veterans, and the week for it is here.
What a green porch light says
Americans use green porch lights to show support for U.S. military veterans. [1] If you have a porch light, you can take part.
Swapping a porch light for a green bulb may signify that the household is there for veterans in the community who might need support, according to the Armed Forces Benefit Association. [2] Participants in green porch light campaigns are also encouraged to reach out to local veterans. [2]
Why green, and why November
Green is associated with the military because of the green uniforms traditionally worn by troops. [1] Walmart chose green because of its association with action, since a green light means go. [2]
Veterans Day on November 11 is the most symbolic time of year to show support for America's troops. [1] Green porch lights are a relatively new trend, and the most common purpose is veterans' awareness in November. [2]
How to switch your lights
To participate, people swap their porch light for a green one, or change their smart LED lights to green. [2] The Bluex LED A19 Green Bulbs (2-pack) are sold at Amazon for $7.99. [1] That price is stated as accurate as of November 5, 2026. [1]
Participants were encouraged to share a photo of their green light on social media with the hashtag #GreenlightAVet. [1]
What counties and communities are doing
NACo's initiative encourages U.S. counties and parishes to illuminate courthouses, offices, and other municipal buildings in green from November 4 to 11, the week leading up to Veterans Day. [1] In some counties, Operation Green Light outreach includes distributing green light bulbs or otherwise encouraging residents to participate. [1]
In Prattville, Alabama, community advocate Julie Cooley encouraged neighbors, municipalities and businesses to show support for veterans, including by putting up signage, offering discounts, or turning lights green. [1]
Policy and jobs for veterans
In September 2023, the House of Representatives introduced House Resolution 750, a bipartisan bill recognizing Operation Green Light for Veterans. [1] Counties are advocating for legislation to secure appropriate resources at the local level to help veterans access federal benefits, ease their transition into civilian life, and support their long-term health and well-being. [1]
Walmart's Veterans Welcome Home Commitment initiative provides jobs to any honorably discharged U.S. veteran. [1]
Other colors and other uses
Other porch light colors are tied to awareness events, such as pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. [2] Green porch lights may also be used for St. Patrick's Day, outdoor Christmas ambiance, or good luck. [2]
What this means for you
You can join by swapping your porch light for a green one, or by changing your smart LED lights to green. [2] A two-pack of green bulbs is sold at Amazon for $7.99, as of November 5, 2026. [1]
Counties and parishes are asked to light buildings green from November 4 to 11, so the week leading up to Veterans Day is the time the initiative names. [1] Once your light is green, participants are encouraged to reach out to local veterans. [2]
Sources
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