Veterans Day is a significant occasion across the United States, particularly in regions with rich historical ties to the military. In the Philadelphia area, which includes surrounding communities in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, businesses and organizations participate in honoring those who have served by offering a variety of freebies, deals, and events. These offers span dining, entertainment, retail, and cultural experiences, often requiring proof of military service for eligibility. This article provides a comprehensive overview of available Veterans Day freebies and deals in the Philadelphia region, based on verified reports from local news sources and national roundups.
The information compiled here focuses on offers available on or around November 11, with an emphasis on those accessible to veterans and active-duty military personnel in the greater Philadelphia area. While many deals are national in scope, specific local implementations and events are highlighted where reported. Veterans are generally advised to bring valid military identification, such as a Department of Defense ID, a Veterans Affairs ID, or a state driver's license with a veteran designation, to redeem most offers. Participation may vary by location, and it is recommended to confirm details with individual establishments prior to visiting.
Dining and Restaurant Offers
A significant portion of Veterans Day freebies in the Philadelphia area centers on complimentary meals and discounts at restaurants. Both national chains and local eateries participate, offering everything from full entrees to breakfast specials.
National and Regional Chains
Several well-known restaurant chains offer free meals to veterans and active-duty military personnel on Veterans Day. These deals typically require dine-in service and valid military identification.
- Applebee's: Active-duty military, veterans, reserves, and National Guard members receive a free full-sized entrée from an exclusive menu. Dine-in customers in this group also receive a $5 gift card valid for three weeks, redeemable on a subsequent dine-in, to-go, or delivery order.
- Bob Evans: Veterans and active-duty military personnel dining in receive a free farm-fresh meal.
- Buffalo Wild Wings: Military personnel and veterans get 10 free boneless wings and fries with a valid ID. This offer is available for dine-in and walk-in customers at participating locations.
- California Pizza Kitchen: Veterans and active-duty military can choose one entrée from a special Veterans Day menu, available for dine-in only.
- Chili's: Veterans and active-duty military members who dine in receive a free meal from a select menu.
- Cracker Barrel: Veterans receive a free Sunrise Pancake Special while supplies last, available for dine-in customers only. Proof of military service is required.
- Denny's: Active and retired military personnel can enjoy a free Original Grand Slam breakfast from 5 a.m. to noon local time at participating locations nationwide.
- Golden Corral: This chain offers a free meal for veterans and active-duty military from 4 p.m. to closing time on Veterans Day.
- IHOP: Select locations offer a red, white, and blue pancake special.
- Olive Garden: Veterans receive a free entrée from a special menu.
- Red Lobster: Veterans receive a free designated meal, dine-in only, at participating locations.
- Red Robin Gourmet Burgers: Veterans and active-duty military receive a free Red’s Big Tavern Burger and bottomless steak fries.
- Shoney's: Veterans and active-duty military get a free All-American Burger or breakfast bar, dine-in only.
- Sheetz: Veterans and active-duty military receive a free sub and drink at any location, along with a free car wash. Sheetz is widely available in the eastern U.S., including Pennsylvania.
- Wawa: While specific details vary, Wawa is noted for offering freebies to veterans.
Local Philadelphia and Regional Eateries
In addition to national chains, the Philadelphia area features local businesses offering unique Veterans Day promotions.
- Metro Diner: Located in the Philadelphia region, Metro Diner offers 50% off the bill for veterans and their families on Veterans Day. This discount applies to active and retired military members with a valid military ID. Additionally, veterans receive 10% off their meal year-round at any Metro Diner location.
- Primo Hoagies: In New Jersey and Pennsylvania, veterans receive a free 20-ounce beverage and a 1-ounce bag of chips with the purchase of a Primo-size hoagie.
- Quaker Steak & Lube: With locations in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, this chain offers free or discounted meals for veterans, active-duty military, and reservists at participating locations.
- Roy Rogers: Veterans receive 10% off and a free Uncle Ralph’s brownie with a purchase at participating locations.
- Shane’s Rib Shack: Available in Southeast states, New York, and Arizona, veterans and active-duty military receive a free meal, choosing from two entrees.
Food Trucks and Special Events
A notable local event is hosted by a food truck operator who is a veteran of the Air National Guard. On Veterans Day, this food truck parks at Ridge Hall in Philadelphia, offering free meals to all veterans from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. The owner, Nate Baynes, has served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kuwait. In addition to free meals, a percentage of sales is donated to Salute 2 Service, a Veteran’s charity in Bucks County that provides food, clothes, healthcare, and other support to those who have served.
Beverages and Snacks
For smaller treats, veterans can visit: - Dunkin': A free donut is available. - Starbucks: A free cup of coffee is offered.
Retail and Service Discounts
While dining offers are prominent, some retailers and service providers in the Philadelphia area also extend Veterans Day discounts.
- Sports Clips: Some locations offer free haircuts for veterans and active-duty military. Interested individuals should check specific locations for participation.
- Regal Cinemas: The national movie theater chain has special promotions on Veterans Day, which may include free popcorn or free admission to selected movies. Availability may vary by location.
Cultural and Entertainment Events
The Philadelphia region, with its historical significance, hosts several events and free admissions to honor veterans.
Museums and Historical Sites
- Museum of the American Revolution: Located in Old City, Philadelphia, the museum offers free admission to active-duty service members, veterans, and Blue Star families on Veterans Day. Exhibits include "Black Soldiers in the Revolutionary War Discovery Cart," "Unpack a Sea Chest," and "Revolution Place." The museum operates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with tickets and information available online.
- Battleship New Jersey: A Veterans Day ceremony is held aboard the Battleship New Jersey, beginning at 10:30 a.m.
Parades and Ceremonies
- Media Veterans Day Parade: In Delaware County, the annual parade kicks off at 11:11 a.m. on State Street, concluding in front of the courthouse with a ceremony featuring grand marshal Ed Buffman and musical guest Ashli Rice.
Broader Regional and National Offers
For those willing to travel or seeking additional options, the following are noted in regional roundups: - Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia): Offers free admission for veterans, active-duty military, and families on Veterans Day weekend. - Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum (Nashville, Tennessee): Veterans, active-duty military, and up to three guests are admitted free on November 11. - Maryland Transit Authority: Veterans and active-duty military ride free on all MTA transit, including Light Rail, MARC Train, and Commuter Bus, with valid identification.
Eligibility and Requirements
Most Veterans Day freebies and deals require proof of military service. Acceptable forms of identification include: - Department of Defense ID - Department of Veterans Affairs ID - State driver’s license with a veteran designation
Many offers are limited to dine-in service and may not apply to online orders or third-party delivery services. Participation can vary by franchise or location, so it is advisable to call ahead to confirm. Some deals are available only on Veterans Day, while others extend through the surrounding weekend or even the entire month of November.
Conclusion
Veterans Day in the Philadelphia area is marked by a wide array of freebies and deals designed to honor military service. From complimentary meals at national chains like Applebee's and Olive Garden to local discounts at Metro Diner and Primo Hoagies, veterans have numerous opportunities to enjoy free or discounted food. Cultural institutions such as the Museum of the American Revolution offer free admission, while events like the Media Veterans Day Parade provide community-focused ways to celebrate. Although the offers listed here are based on verified reports from local news sources and national roundups, veterans should always verify participation and requirements with individual businesses to ensure a smooth experience.