Veterans Day 2024 falls on Monday, November 11th, and serves as a national observance to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice. In recognition of this day, numerous businesses, restaurants, and government agencies across the United States offer special discounts, complimentary meals, and free access to public lands for veterans and active-duty military personnel. These offers are designed to express gratitude and provide tangible benefits, ranging from free dining experiences to waived fees for recreational activities. This article provides a detailed overview of the verified Veterans Day offers for 2024, including eligibility requirements, participating brands, and important verification details, based on information from official sources and aggregated deal lists.
The majority of Veterans Day promotions are valid only on November 11, 2024, though some extend through the weekend or to other specific dates. A common requirement across most offers is the presentation of a valid military ID or other acceptable proof of military service or veteran status. For many national chain restaurants, participation may vary by location, so it is advisable to call ahead to confirm local involvement. The following sections outline available offers in key categories, including restaurants, zoos and attractions, and public land access for all.
Restaurant and Dining Freebies
A significant portion of Veterans Day offers centers on complimentary meals and food items from national restaurant chains. These promotions are typically available for dine-in service only and require proof of service. The following list details specific offers as reported by multiple sources.
National Restaurant Chains Offering Free Meals
- Another Broken Egg Café: Veterans and active-duty service members can receive a free Patriot French Toast Combo and coffee on November 11, 2024. This offer is valid for dine-in visits at participating locations with a valid ID.
- Applebee’s: Military veterans and active-duty service members can eat for free from a special Veterans Day menu on November 11, 2024, at participating Applebee’s locations across the U.S. Proof of service is required. Some reports indicate that a $5 Bounce Back Card may also be included with the meal.
- Aspen Creek Grill: On November 10, 11, and 12, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Aspen Creek is offering a $15 meal voucher to all veterans and active-duty military personnel.
- Baker’s Square: Veterans who present a military ID on Veterans Day can receive a complimentary “2-2-2” breakfast.
- Bandana’s Bar-B-Q: On Veterans Day, veterans and active military personnel can receive a free Budget Buster Meal.
- Bar Louie: Participating Bar Louie locations will offer a free craft burger for active-duty military or military veterans with proof of service on Veterans Day.
- Biscuit Belly: Veterans can eat free on Monday, November 11, 2024, with a choice of a Bacon Egg & Cheese, Sausage Egg & Cheese, or Chicken Biscuit Sandwich, along with a hot drip coffee or fountain drink.
- BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse: Veterans and active-duty military personnel with a valid ID can receive a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie with a dine-in purchase on November 11, 2024. Additionally, veterans who dine on November 11 will receive a free appetizer coupon for their next visit, valid through December 31, 2024. No minimum purchase is required for the Pizookie.
- Bob Evans: Veterans can choose a free meal from a Veterans Day menu with a dine-in visit and proof of service on November 11, 2024.
- Buca Di Beppo: Veterans can receive a free lunch entree with a dine-in visit, military ID, and the code 37362-5605-3730 on November 11, 2024.
- California Pizza Kitchen: Veterans and active-duty service members can receive a free entrée and beverage from a Veterans Day menu with a dine-in visit and proof of service on November 11, 2024.
- Carrabba’s: Veterans and active-duty military personnel can receive a 10% discount with a dine-in visit and proof of service. This is an ongoing offer, not limited to Veterans Day.
- Chevys: Veterans can receive a free 2-item Combo with a dine-in visit, service ID, and the code VET 2-ITEM on November 11, 2024.
- City Barbeque: Veterans can receive a free sandwich, one side, and a drink with an in-store visit (for dine-in or carryout) and proof of service on November 11, 2024.
- Cody’s Original Roadhouse: Veterans can receive a free meal from a select menu on Veterans Day with proof of service.
It is important to note that while these offers are national in scope, individual franchise locations may have the discretion to participate or not. Always verify with the local establishment before visiting.
Zoos, Attractions, and Recreation
Beyond dining, several zoos and national recreation areas offer free or discounted admission for veterans and their families during the Veterans Day period.
Zoo and Attraction Offers
- Hogle Zoo (Utah): Veterans plus one guest receive free admission during Veterans Day weekend, from November 9 through November 11, 2024. Veterans also receive a 10% discount on any purchase made at the Museum Store.
- Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium (Washington): Veterans receive free general admission for Veterans Day weekend from November 9 through November 11, 2024. A valid ID is required. Veteran’s immediate family members receive a 50% discount on single-day tickets.
- San Antonio Zoo (Texas): Veterans receive free admission for Military Appreciation Month in November 2024 with a valid ID. This offer is valid from November 1 through November 30, 2024. Up to four additional tickets can be purchased for direct dependents at 50% off during this period.
National Parks and Forests
A notable offer available to the general public is the free entrance to U.S. National Parks and National Forest sites on Veterans Day, November 11, 2024. This initiative allows everyone to enjoy America’s public lands without paying the standard entrance fee.
Additionally, current U.S. military personnel—including members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Reserve, and National Guard—as well as their dependents, qualify for a free National Parks annual pass. This pass provides access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites for one year.
Other Discounts and Giveaways
Some retailers and brands offer special discounts or giveaways for Veterans Day. One example from the source data is a promotion from Tonal, a fitness company, which offers a $1,500 military discount with a promo code. This is described as a Veterans Day deal for the military community.
Furthermore, a giveaway is mentioned for a watch called "The Rec Spec," which is described as a rugged and stylish watch that pays tribute to military precision and durability. The giveaway runs from October 28 to November 12, 2024, and is open to active military members and veterans. To enter, individuals must meet the eligibility criteria and follow the specified entry process.
Important Considerations and Verification
When seeking Veterans Day offers, it is crucial to understand the following points:
- Proof of Service: Most offers require some form of verification. This typically includes a military ID, a VA card, a driver’s license with a veteran designation, a photograph in uniform, or other official documentation. The specific requirements may vary by business, so it is best to check in advance.
- Participation: For national chains with franchise locations, not every location may participate in Veterans Day promotions. It is highly recommended to call the specific restaurant or store ahead of time to confirm participation and any local conditions.
- Offer Validity: The vast majority of Veterans Day freebies and discounts are valid only on November 11, 2024. A few, like the Carrabba’s discount, are ongoing, while others, such as the San Antonio Zoo admission, span the entire month. Always check the specific dates for each offer.
- Source Reliability: The information presented here is compiled from multiple sources, including dedicated military deal websites and news articles. While these sources aggregate information from brands, the most reliable information is often found on the official website or social media channels of the participating business. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) also provides a list of discounts and complimentary meals, noting that the sharing of this information does not constitute an endorsement of products or services.
Conclusion
Veterans Day 2024 offers a wide array of discounts, free meals, and complimentary access to public spaces as a gesture of national gratitude to veterans and active-duty military personnel. From free meals at over 80 restaurants to free admission at national parks and zoos, these benefits provide opportunities for veterans and their families to enjoy the day. The key to accessing these offers is to prepare in advance by verifying participation with local businesses, having the appropriate proof of service ready, and noting the specific dates each offer is valid. While the list of participating brands is extensive, it is always subject to change, so checking for the most current information is advisable.