Veterans Day is a significant occasion for honoring military service members, and numerous businesses in the Roanoke area and the Outer Banks offer special deals, free meals, and discounts to commemorate the holiday. These offers typically span various categories, including dining, entertainment, retail, and services. The following information details specific promotions available to veterans and active-duty military personnel based on recent reports and local directories.
Dining and Restaurant Offers
A wide variety of restaurants participate in Veterans Day promotions, offering free meals or significant discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel. These offers generally require proof of service, such as a valid military ID or other documentation.
National and Local Chains Several well-known restaurant chains offer nationwide promotions that apply to the Roanoke area: * Applebee's: Veterans and active-duty military receive a free meal from a select menu. * Buffalo Wild Wings: Participants can receive six free boneless wings and fries with a valid ID at participating locations. * Chili's: Free meal available at participating restaurants. * Cracker Barrel: Offers a free Sunrise Pancake Breakfast. * Denny's: Free Original Grand Slam available from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m. * Golden Corral: Provides a free dinner buffet and beverage from 4 p.m. to close. * IHOP: Active duty and retired veterans are invited to enjoy free Red, White, & Blue Pancakes on Friday, November 10. A broader "Heroes Eat Free" promotion includes a free Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo. * Little Caesars: Offers a complimentary lunch combo including four slices of signature Detroit-style deep dish pizza and a 20-ounce Pepsi beverage from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. * Logan's Roadhouse: Free meal from a select menu starting at 11 a.m. * Red Lobster: Veterans, active-duty military, and reservists with a valid military ID or proof of service can choose a free appetizer or dessert from a special menu on Saturday, November 11. * Red Robin: On Saturday, November 11, all veterans and active duty military members receive a free Red’s Tavern Double burger with Bottomless Steak Fries. * Outback Steakhouse: Honors those who served with a free 3-course meal on Monday, November 10, and Tuesday, November 11. A military ID is required.
Regional and Local Specifics Specific offers in the Roanoke and Outer Banks regions include: * Mission BBQ: Plans to honor the sacrifice of those who served or are currently serving with a special celebration on Veterans Day, including free sandwiches and cake. * South of KDG: Offers free meals for all veterans on Veterans Day (Tuesday, November 11). A Military ID must be presented to the server when ordering. * Chipotle: Offers buy one entree, get a second one free from 4 to 8 p.m. * Firehouse Subs: Buy any size sub and get a second one free. * Circle K: Free hot or iced medium coffee. * Dunkin' Donuts: Veterans receive a free donut while supplies last, in-store only. * Insomnia Cookies: Free deluxe cookie with a $5 purchase from November 8 through November 11, with a valid military ID; available in-store only.
Discounts Beyond the Holiday Some businesses extend their appreciation beyond the holiday itself: * A report indicates that from November 12 through November 16, military members will receive 20% off their check. Beginning November 17, military, fire, and police personnel will receive 10% off their check.
Entertainment and Attractions
Various attractions and entertainment venues offer free or discounted admission to veterans and their families.
Aquariums and Museums * NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island: The aquarium will be free to everyone all day on Saturday, November 11. Additionally, the aquarium is offering 50% off admission for all active-duty, retired, or reserve military members and their immediate family members on Veterans Day. Tickets must be reserved ahead of time on the aquarium's website. Proof of service or ID is required. * OB-Xscape Rooms: Offers veterans one free 60-minute game on Veterans Day. A Military ID must be presented, and advanced booking is recommended.
Events and Parades * Virginia Veterans Parade: A parade takes place in Downtown Roanoke. There is a meet and greet with veterans before the parade at 9:30 a.m. in the market building. * Outer Banks Activities: The Dare Arts Veterans Directory provides a directory of discounts. Additionally, Seaside Vacations guests are eligible to receive one free adult ticket when booking a party of 4 or more with Manteo Historic Walking Tour.
Retail and Services
Discounts are available at various retail locations and for professional services.
Retail and Hardware * Ace Hardware: Provides a 10% discount to veterans, active-duty military, and reserves every day at all 7 Outer Banks locations. * Artsy Octopus: Offers a military, veterans, and first responders a 20% discount every day. ID must be shown upon checkout.
Health and Dental Services * Atlantic Dentistry: Offers free dental services to all veterans on Friday, November 7. Appointments must be scheduled by calling 252-261-7700. * Morgan Family Dentistry: Located in Kitty Hawk, offers a discount for veterans (active and retired). Contact is required to schedule an appointment; military ID is required for the discount. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred.
Hospitality * Colonial Inn in Nags Head: Offers 15% discounts off vacation stays.
Community and Miscellaneous Offers
While the primary focus is on established business promotions, community platforms also list free items available in the Roanoke area. These are generally peer-to-peer offers rather than brand-sponsored samples. For example, listings on platforms like Nextdoor may include items such as free firewood, furniture, pets, or electronics. These are distinct from the structured promotional offers detailed above.
Conclusion
Veterans Day offers a broad spectrum of appreciation from businesses in the Roanoke and Outer Banks areas, ranging from free dining experiences and entertainment to retail discounts and specialized service offers. Most promotions require valid military identification or proof of service. Consumers are advised to verify participation with specific locations and understand that offers may be subject to change or availability.