Veterans Day is a national holiday observed on November 11 each year to honor the sacrifices of current and former members of the U.S. military. In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and the surrounding capital region, numerous businesses and restaurants demonstrate their appreciation by offering special deals, free meals, and discounts to veterans and active-duty service members. These offers are typically available on Veterans Day itself, though some extend to the preceding or following days. The following information details the specific promotions available in the Baton Rouge area, based on reports from local news sources.
Many national restaurant chains participate in Veterans Day promotions, and these offers are generally available at their Baton Rouge locations. It is important to note that most free meal and discount offers require proof of military service. Common forms of acceptable identification include a valid military ID, a DD214 form, or other official documentation. Dine-in service is frequently required for free meal offers, though some exceptions exist.
National Restaurant Chains Offering Veterans Day Deals
A variety of national restaurant brands have announced Veterans Day promotions for 2024. These offers are typically valid on November 11, unless otherwise specified.
Applebee’s For the 17th consecutive year, Applebee’s is offering veterans and active-duty military a special Veterans Day meal on November 11. Participants can select from a limited menu of entrées. This offer is valid for dine-in only at participating locations. Additional details are available through the company’s official website.
Benny’s Car Wash Benny’s Car Wash is offering exclusive Veterans Day specials at all nine of its Baton Rouge locations on November 11. Veterans and military members can receive a free Benny’s Best Car Wash, which has a $22 value. They are also eligible for a 50 percent discount on oil changes and a complimentary fountain drink or cup of Community Coffee inside any B-Quik convenience store. These specials are available only on November 11 during normal business hours.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse Current and former military members dining at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse on November 11 can receive a free appetizer coupon for their next visit. Additionally, they can receive a free chocolate chunk Pizookie® when dining in on that day.
Another Broken Egg Cafe This restaurant is offering free French toast and coffee for veterans and active-duty military on November 11.
Red Lobster Veterans, active-duty military, and reservists may receive a free Veteran's Shrimp & Chip meal on November 11 when dining in. This meal includes six Walt's Favorite Shrimp, cocktail sauce, ketchup, french fries, and coleslaw. A valid Military ID or proof of service is required.
Red Robin On November 11, veterans and active-duty military patrons may receive a complimentary Red's Big Tavern Burger and Bottomless Side when dining in at participating restaurants.
Ruby Tuesday Active-duty military and veterans may get a free Garden Bar entrée, American Smash Burger, or Ruby's Cheeseburger on Veterans Day. This offer requires a Military ID or the code HERO24.
Shoney’s Veterans and active-duty military personnel may receive a free Slow-Smoked BBQ Pork or Chopped BBQ Chicken Plate on November 11. This offer is valid for in-store dining only, with one meal per veteran, and proof of service is required.
Starbucks Veterans, military service members, and military spouses may receive a free tall brewed coffee (hot or iced) at participating stores and licensed locations on November 11.
Taziki’s Veterans may receive a complimentary Grilled Chicken Gyro meal, with chips and a side-of-choice, when dining in at participating locations on November 11.
TCBY Veterans and active-duty military can get their first 6 oz of frozen yogurt for free.
Krispy Kreme Veterans and active military can receive a free small hot or iced coffee and any donut. Another report specifies that veterans can get a free doughnut and coffee on November 11 at participating locations, with a limit of one doughnut per guest, per visit, for in-shop and drive-thru only.
Zaxby’s Free sandwich to all current and former military members at participating locations.
Olive Garden Veterans and active duty can receive a free entrée with a valid Military ID.
Smoothie King Offering a free 20oz Red, White or Blue Smoothie in-store to all veterans and active-duty military with a military ID.
Dunkin' Donuts Free donut for all active and retired military members.
LongHorn Steakhouse Free appetizer or dessert with meals on November 10 and 11 for dine-in and call-in.
Popeyes Spend $20 or more and get a chicken sandwich for free.
Buffalo Wild Wings Past and present armed service members with a valid ID can get 10 free boneless wings and fries for dine-in or walk-in counter orders only at Buffalo Wild Wings GO locations.
Denny’s Free Original Grand Slam with a valid ID or DD 214 from 5 a.m. to noon on November 11. Another report notes that on November 11, veterans and active-duty military can get a free Red, White and Blueberry Pancake Combo from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at participating restaurants, available for dine-in only.
Little Caesars From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on November 11, veterans and active-duty military may receive a complimentary Lunch Combo, which includes four slices of Little Caesars signature Detroit-style Deep Dish pizza and a 20-ounce beverage.
Logan's Roadhouse From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on November 11, veterans can receive a complimentary meal at participating locations when choosing from a special menu.
Outback Steakhouse Active-duty military and veterans can get a free Bloomin' Onion and beverage with the purchase of an adult entree when dining in on November 11.
Local Baton Rouge Events and Activities
Beyond restaurant offers, the Baton Rouge community hosts events to honor veterans. These events provide opportunities for community gathering and recognition.
Governor John Bel Edwards and the Never Forget Garden Governor John Bel Edwards is scheduled to honor veterans at 11 a.m. during the dedication of the Never Forget Garden in Louisiana Veterans Memorial Park. This event is part of the official Veterans Day observance in the state capital.
Southern University Army ROTC 5k Fun Run & Bike Ride The Southern University Army ROTC program hosts its fourth annual Veterans Day 5k Fun Run & Bike Ride. This event takes place on the Saturday before Veterans Day at 7:30 a.m., offering a community-focused way to participate in the holiday observance.
Operation Baton Rouge Operation Baton Rouge provides a calendar of events for veterans in the Baton Rouge area. The calendar includes networking opportunities, support groups, job fairs, and community gatherings. Veterans are encouraged to check the calendar for updates on events related to Veterans Day and throughout the year.
Important Considerations for Veterans
When seeking Veterans Day deals, it is crucial for participants to be prepared. Most businesses require proof of service. It is advisable to carry a valid military ID, a DD214, or another form of official documentation. Offers are typically valid only on the specified day, which is November 11 for most promotions. Dine-in service is a common requirement for free meal offers, so veterans should confirm the terms with the specific restaurant location. Some offers may have limitations, such as being valid only at participating locations or for a limited menu. It is always recommended to check with the local restaurant directly or visit the company’s official website for the most current and detailed information before visiting.
Conclusion
Veterans Day in Baton Rouge offers a variety of ways for the community to show appreciation for military service members. From free meals at national restaurant chains like Applebee’s, Olive Garden, and Denny’s to local services like free car washes from Benny’s, there are numerous opportunities for veterans and active-duty personnel to receive special treatment. Community events, such as the dedication of the Never Forget Garden and the Southern University 5k, further enrich the observance. To take advantage of these offers, veterans should ensure they have the necessary documentation and verify offer details with individual businesses, as terms and participation can vary.
Sources
- WAFB: Veterans Day Deals for Current and Former Service Members
- WBRZ: Veteran's Day Events and Specials in Baton Rouge
- The Town Talk: Where to Find Free or Discounted Meals on Veterans Day in Louisiana
- Shreveport Times: Where Can Veterans Get Deals, Discounts and Free Meals on Veterans Day in Louisiana
- Operation Baton Rouge Calendar
- Newsbreak: Veterans Day in Baton Rouge: Here's a list of restaurants offering free meals, discounts