Veterans Day 2025, observed on Tuesday, November 11, brings a wide array of complimentary meals, discounts, and special offers from businesses and organizations across the United States. These offers are designed to honor military veterans and active-duty service members for their service and sacrifice. The available information details specific deals from restaurants, retail establishments, and attractions, outlining eligibility requirements and redemption processes.
While many offers are available nationwide, participation may vary by location, and most businesses require valid proof of military service to redeem the deals. Common forms of identification include a U.S. Uniformed Services ID, Retired ID card, DD214, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), veterans organization card, or wearing a uniform. Below is a comprehensive overview of the freebies, discounts, and donations available for Veterans Day 2025.
Restaurant and Food Offers
A significant portion of Veterans Day promotions focuses on complimentary meals and food items from national restaurant chains. These offers typically apply to dine-in service on November 11, unless otherwise specified.
Free Meals and Entrees
Several major restaurant chains offer veterans and active-duty military a free meal on Veterans Day.
- Applebee’s: For the 18th consecutive year, Applebee’s is offering veterans and active-duty military a special Veterans Day meal from a selection of entrees. This offer is for dine-in only, and beverages and gratuity are not included. Proof of military service is required, such as a U.S. Uniformed Services ID, Retired ID card, current LES, veterans organization card (e.g., American Legion, VFW), DD214, or a photo in uniform.
- Freddy’s: Veterans and current military personnel visiting Freddy’s on Veterans Day will receive a meal card valid for any free combo meal of their choice.
- Golden Corral: Military Appreciation Night is scheduled for Monday, November 11, 2024, from 4 p.m. until close. The restaurant will honor military heroes with a free "thank you" meal. Eligible individuals include anyone who has served in the U.S. military, including retirees, veterans, active duty, National Guard, and Reserves.
- Green Mill: In honor of veterans, Green Mill is offering a free two-topping personal pizza, desert fire pasta, Western mill burger, or cobb salad with chicken.
- Hamburger Stand: Veterans and active-duty military can receive a free hamburger, regular fries, and a small soda on November 11.
- Houlihan’s: This restaurant is offering 50% off specific entrees for Veterans Day, available for dine-in only. Eligible entrees include shrimp scampi, Houlihan’s cheeseburger, whole grain veggie burger, meatloaf No. 9, fish and chips, stuffed chicken breast, heartland grilled chicken, and chicken parmesan.
- Another Broken Egg Cafe: Veterans and active-duty service members can enjoy a free patriot French toast combo and coffee on November 11 at participating locations. A valid ID is required, and the offer is for dine-in only.
Breakfast, Coffee, and Snacks
In addition to full meals, several establishments are providing complimentary breakfast items, coffee, and snacks.
- McDonald's: Some McDonald's restaurants are offering free breakfast meals to veterans and active-duty military on November 11. Veterans with a valid military ID can receive a free Egg McMuffin meal at participating locations.
- Einstein Bros. Bagels: This establishment will honor those who serve with a free hot or iced coffee of any size for all veterans and active-duty service members on Tuesday, November 11. The complimentary coffee can be enjoyed in-bakery, through the mobile app, or online using the code FREECOFFEE. No purchase is required.
- Whataburger: Whataburger is offering a Texas-sized thank-you with free Taquitos. Beginning November 11, active-duty military and veterans can pick up one free Taquito in-store at any Whataburger restaurant during breakfast hours every Tuesday through December 30. This includes November 11, 18, and 25, and December 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30.
- Starbucks: (Mentioned in Source 1 as participating, specific details not provided in source data).
- Dunkin': (Mentioned in Source 1 as participating, specific details not provided in source data).
- Chick-fil-A: (Mentioned in Source 1 as participating, specific details not provided in source data).
Discounts and Special Deals
Some restaurants offer percentage-based discounts or special pricing instead of complimentary items.
- Freebirds: All military members, veterans, and active-duty service personnel are invited to enjoy 50% off any order at participating Freebirds locations in-store on Veterans Day.
- Hooters: (Mentioned in Source 3 as having a Veterans Day offer, specific details not provided in the source data).
Retail, Services, and Attractions
Beyond the food sector, various businesses and attractions are extending their gratitude through free services, admission, and merchandise discounts.
Free Services and Events
- The Barbershop: The Barbershop is hosting its fourth annual veterans event at its Darboy location (W3192 County Hwy KK), offering free haircuts and services to men and women who served in the armed forces.
- Brown County Rifle Range: Veterans receive free admission to the Reforestation Camp Rifle Range, which is normally $7 per gun/bow or shooter. Free gun and archery sighting is also available for veterans and active-duty military members from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. The range provides 10 shooting lanes, archery and crossbow lanes, targets, and hearing protection.
Free and Discounted Admission to Attractions
Several historical sites, zoos, and entertainment venues offer free or discounted admission to veterans and military members.
- Monticello: U.S. military veterans receive free admission to Monticello for Veterans Day weekend, November 9-11, 2024. Admission is for the Gardens and Grounds Pass or the Highlights Tour. The discount does not apply to special or after-hours tours and is based on availability.
- James Madison’s Montpelier: Montpelier offers a free one-day property pass to the grounds and a free "Highlights of Montpelier" tour to service members on Veterans Day with a valid military ID.
- George Washington’s Mount Vernon: Mount Vernon admits free all active duty, former, or retired military personnel on Veterans Day. Free tickets are available upon arrival and do not extend to family members or guests.
- Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden: The garden offers complimentary general admission to active and retired veterans on November 9, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Pro Football Hall of Fame: The Hall of Fame offers free admission to all U.S. service members, National Guard members, and veterans, plus one guest. Additionally, Blue Star Mothers and Gold Star Families receive free admission. A commemorative Veterans Day pin is provided while supplies last, and there is a 20% discount at the Hall of Fame Store for these groups.
- San Antonio Zoo: In November 2024, the zoo honored active duty, retired, veteran members of the military, National Guard, and reserves with free admission. Additionally, up to four immediate family members can receive 50% off Any Day Tickets on the date of the visit.
- Six Flags Discovery Kingdom: Located in Vallejo, California, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom honors all who served on November 9-11 with free admission for veterans.
Retail Discounts
- Various Retailers: While specific names are limited in the provided data, Veterans Day deals often include 50% off for military members at various participating locations. Consumers are advised to check with individual retailers for specific offers and required proof of service.
Important Considerations for Veterans and Military Members
When seeking to redeem Veterans Day offers, it is essential for veterans and active-duty military members to be prepared and aware of specific terms and conditions.
Proof of Service Requirements
Most businesses require proof of military service to ensure offers are extended to the intended recipients. The following documents are commonly accepted: * U.S. Uniformed Services ID Card * Retired ID Card * Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) * Veterans Organization Card (e.g., American Legion, VFW) * DD214 * Citation or Commendation * Wearing a uniform * Photo of yourself in uniform
Participation and Availability
It is important to note that Veterans Day offers are subject to change and may not be available at all locations. Franchise locations often have the discretion to participate or not. Consumers are strongly advised to verify the availability of an offer with the specific organization or restaurant before visiting.
Year-Round Opportunities
While Veterans Day is a peak time for freebies and discounts, some businesses offer year-round benefits for military members. For example, the Whataburger offer for free Taquitos every Tuesday through the end of the year extends the Veterans Day spirit beyond the holiday itself. Additionally, organizations like the San Antonio Zoo offer significant discounts for family members, providing value beyond the veteran or active-duty member.
Conclusion
Veterans Day 2025 offers a diverse range of opportunities for veterans and active-duty military members to receive free meals, discounts, and special recognition from businesses and attractions nationwide. From complimentary breakfasts at McDonald's and coffee at Einstein Bros. Bagels to full meals at Applebee's and Golden Corral, the restaurant sector provides extensive options. Beyond food, free services like haircuts at The Barbershop and free admission to historical sites like Monticello and Mount Vernon allow for a day of appreciation and leisure. To successfully redeem these offers, individuals should prepare valid proof of military service and verify participation with specific locations, as offers and availability may vary. These initiatives collectively serve as a national gesture of thanks to those who have served.