Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring military veterans in the United States. For consumers, the holiday is also widely recognized for the numerous freebies and discounts offered by businesses as a gesture of gratitude. Based on the provided source material, a wide array of restaurants, retailers, and service providers offer complimentary items and services to active-duty military personnel and veterans on this day.
The availability of these offers generally requires proof of military service. Acceptable forms of identification vary by establishment but commonly include a U.S. Uniformed Services ID, Retired ID card, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), DD214, veterans organization card, or wearing a uniform. It is important for consumers to note that most dining offers are designated for dine-in service only, unless specified otherwise. Additionally, many participating businesses are franchise-owned, which can lead to variations in participation and offer details by location.
Restaurant and Food Service Offers
A significant portion of Veterans Day freebies comes from the restaurant industry. Establishments ranging from national fast-food chains to casual dining restaurants provide free meals, specific menu items, or discounts to veterans and active-duty service members.
Breakfast and Coffee
Several chains offer complimentary breakfast items or beverages to start the day. Denny’s provides a free Original Grand Slam starting at 5 a.m. on Veterans Day. For those seeking a sweet breakfast option, Cracker Barrel offers a free Sunrise Pancake Special. Another Broken Egg Cafe honors veterans with a complimentary Patriot French Toast, topped with strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream, paired with Barista House Blend Coffee.
Coffee and bagel shops also participate in the holiday. Einstein Bros. Bagels offers a free hot or iced coffee of any size to veterans and active-duty service members. This can be redeemed in-bakery, through the mobile app, or online using the code FREECOFFEE. Circle K provides one free medium hot or iced coffee. Manhattan Bagel also offers a free hot or iced coffee to veterans and active-duty military personnel.
Lunch and Dinner Entrees
Major casual dining chains are prominent participants in Veterans Day promotions. Applebee’s offers a free full-sized entrée from an exclusive Veterans Day Menu for dine-in service. This offer has been noted as an 18-year tradition for the chain. Chili’s provides a complimentary entrée from a select menu for veterans and active-duty military. Bob Evans offers veterans and active-duty members a free entrée from a list of ten options.
Other popular restaurants offering free entrées include:
- Lazy Dog Restaurant: Veterans can choose a free Fireside Favorite entrée, such as the BBQ Ranch Bacon Burger, Fried Chicken Dinner, or Mediterranean Chicken Bowl, and will receive a personal-sized S’more Brownie Sundae for dessert.
- la Madeleine: Veterans receive a free entrée when showing a military ID for dine-in service.
- Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar: Offers a free BD’s All-American Burger with cheese and a classic side from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for dine-in customers.
- Benihana: Veterans and active-duty military can get a free entrée with a value of up to $59 (alcohol excluded).
- Main Event: Provides a free double cheeseburger and fries, plus 30 minutes of game play.
Fast Food and Quick Service
Fast food and quick-service restaurants offer distinct menu items. Arby’s provides a free Classic Roast Beef Sandwich at participating locations owned by the Flynn Group. Buffalo Wild Wings offers 10 free Boneless Wings and Fries. Chipotle offers a buy-one, get-one entrée free deal for in-person orders with a valid military ID between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Blaze Pizza gives veterans and active-duty service members a free 11-inch, one-topping pizza.
Whataburger offers a recurring promotion for Veterans Day: free Taquitos every Tuesday through the end of the year, starting on November 11. This offer is available during breakfast hours at Whataburger restaurants. Lime Fresh Mexican Grill offers free meals on Veterans Day and also provides a $50 Challenge Coin, which can be used for another free meal on the 11th of every month (excluding alcohol).
Desserts and Snacks
Dessert offers are also available. Cracker Barrel, in addition to its pancake special, offers a 25% discount on Duke Cannon products and military-themed merchandise. Main Event includes a free double cheeseburger and fries.
Retail and Service Offers
Beyond dining, various retail and service businesses offer freebies and discounts. These range from recreational activities to personal services and museum entries.
Museums and Parks
The National Park Service typically offers free admission to sites that normally charge a fee on Veterans Day. However, it is noted that some sites may be closed due to government shutdowns. Specific museums also participate; for example, the Glenstone museum in Potomac, Maryland, offers free walk-up entry to active military members and veterans.
Personal Services
Some businesses provide personal services. The Barbershop hosts a 4th annual Veterans Day event at its Darboy location, offering free haircuts and services to men and women who served in the armed forces.
Recreational Activities
Recreational offers include free skating opportunities. On Sunday, November 9, military personnel can skate for free from 12-2 p.m. at Cabin John Ice Rink and from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Wheaton Ice Arena, both located in Maryland. Additionally, Mount Vernon offers free admission to military members on Veterans Day, with tickets picked up in person.
Transportation
Transit services are also offered free of charge. In Maryland, all military members and members of the National Guard receive free rides on buses and trains on Veterans Day by presenting a military ID or a driver’s license with a veteran designation.
General Discounts and Retail Offers
In addition to free items, several retailers offer percentage-based discounts on Veterans Day. Maple Street Biscuit Company provides a 10% discount with valid identification. Margaritas Mexican Restaurant offers a 50% discount on checks at locations in the Northeast (excluding Pennsylvania). Starting November 12, veterans and active military members can receive a 10% discount when dining in at Margaritas locations in New England.
Brown County Rifle Range offers free admission for veterans to the Reforestation Camp Rifle Range and provides free gun and archery sighting for veterans and active-duty military members during specified hours.
Conclusion
Veterans Day 2025 presents a broad selection of free meals, drinks, services, and discounts for U.S. military veterans and active-duty personnel. The offers span a diverse range of businesses, including major restaurant chains, coffee shops, museums, and personal service providers. To access these deals, individuals must present valid proof of military service. While many offers are available on November 11, some promotions, such as Whataburger’s free Taquitos, extend beyond the holiday. Consumers are advised to verify participation with local franchise locations, as availability may vary.