National First Responders Day, established by presidential proclamation in 2017 and observed annually on October 28, serves as a dedicated day of recognition for the firefighters, police officers, paramedics, emergency medical technicians, 911 dispatchers, and other emergency personnel who protect communities across the United States. In conjunction with this observance, numerous national retailers, restaurant chains, and service providers offer special promotions, free products, and discounts to show gratitude for these essential workers. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the freebies and deals available to first responders, based on verified information from 2024 and predicted offers for 2026, along with details on year-round discount programs.
Understanding National First Responders Day
National First Responders Day was officially proclaimed by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. in October 2024, following the precedent set by earlier proclamations. The day is intended to honor the critical role first responders play in public safety, particularly in times of crisis. The proclamation notes that first responders “represent the best of who we are as a people” and includes police officers, sheriff’s deputies, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, paramedics, 911 dispatchers, and other medical professionals providing emergency care.
The day is observed on October 28 each year. For example, in 2024, it fell on a Monday, and in 2026, it will be observed on Wednesday, October 28. While the day itself is a focal point for promotions, many brands extend their gratitude through year-round discount programs accessible to verified first responders.
2024 National First Responders Day Freebies and Deals
On October 28, 2024, participating restaurants and retailers offered a variety of free products and discounts to first responders with valid identification. Most deals required the first responder to present a work ID or badge in person at participating locations, though some online offers used verification services like ID.me or SheerID.
Restaurant and Food Offers
Several national restaurant chains offered complimentary food items or discounts on National First Responders Day. These deals were typically available for dine-in only and required proof of first responder status.
- Dave & Buster’s: First responders received a 15% discount on food and non-alcoholic drinks at participating locations.
- Ford’s Garage: Eligible first responders could choose between a free American Standard Burger or a discount on an entree.
- Outback Steakhouse: First responders saved 10% on their total bill, a discount that is available every day of the year, not just on October 28.
- RaceTrac: First responders who are members of the RaceTrac Rewards program and verified their employment through ID.me could receive a free Red Bull. Additionally, first responders could enjoy a free coffee, fountain drink, or frozen drink every day of the year.
- Ruby Tuesday: First responders dining in could receive a free Garden Bar entree or add-on.
- TGI Fridays: First responders who dined in could receive a free meal from a select menu.
- Additional Food Offers: Other participating chains offered free mozzarella sticks or a brownie bite dessert (on October 28 only), 10 free boneless wings with the purchase of 10 wings, and a free doughnut and brewed coffee with valid ID or badge at participating coffee shops (including drive-thru locations).
Retail and Apparel Discounts
Several retail brands offered percentage-based discounts on apparel, footwear, and accessories for first responders, often available both online and in-store.
- Academy Sports + Outdoors: Offered a 10% discount online and in-store for National First Responders Day.
- Asics: Provided 25% off full-priced footwear and 30% off full-priced clothing and accessories.
- Boden: First responders could receive 20% off Boden orders, plus free shipping on orders over $49.
- Bonobos: Offered a 20% discount on apparel.
- Dockers: Saved first responders 20% on apparel.
- Drunk Elephant: First responders received a 15% discount.
- J.Crew and J.Crew Factory: Both brands offered a 15% discount on purchases.
- Levi Strauss & Co.: Details on their discount were not fully specified in the available source material.
Health, Wellness, and Other Services
Discounts also extended to health supplements, travel, and automotive purchases.
- Atkins Nutritionals: First responders received 10% off at Atkins.com every day.
- Huel: First responders could enjoy 10% off on all purchases of Huel orders of $75 or more.
- GNC: Offered first responders, military members, veterans, teachers, nurses, and students a 10% discount on supplements, vitamins, and other products.
- CheapCaribbean.com: First responders could get $150 off a beach vacation with the Rescue2Relax Club deal year-round.
- Beaches Resorts: Offered an additional 10% off special promotions to first responders and military service members.
- Fire Department Coffee: Provided a lifetime 15% discount to active military, veterans, first responders, and emergency dispatchers.
- Automotive Discounts: Several automakers offered verified first responders significant discounts on new vehicles, including Dodge Ram ($500 discount on select models), Ford Motor Company (a cash reward toward purchase or lease), and General Motors (up to $1,000 off select models).
Predicted Offers for National First Responders Day 2026
Based on historical patterns and previous year offers, several brands are predicted to continue their National First Responders Day promotions in 2026. These predictions are based on consistent past participation and should be verified closer to the date.
Predicted Restaurant and Food Discounts (2026)
- Dave & Buster’s: Likely to continue offering a 15% discount on food and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Ford’s Garage: Expected to offer a free American Standard Burger or a discount on an entree.
- Outback Steakhouse: Will continue its 10% discount for first responders every day, including on National First Responders Day.
- RaceTrac: First responders who are RaceTrac Rewards members and verify employment with ID.me can anticipate a freebie. Free coffee, fountain drinks, or frozen drinks will likely be available every day.
- Ruby Tuesday: May offer a free Garden Bar entree or add-on for dine-in customers.
- TGI Fridays: Predicted to offer first responders a free meal from a select menu for dine-in.
Predicted Entertainment Discounts (2026)
- SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment: First responders across the U.S. (including firefighters, EMTs, law enforcement, etc.) are likely to receive a free one-day admission ticket (via email) to SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, or Adventure Island on National First Responders Day.
Year-Round First Responder Discount Programs
Many brands offer ongoing discounts to first responders, requiring verification through services like ID.me, SheerID, or VerifyPass. These programs are available throughout the year and are not limited to October 28.
Retail and Apparel
- Academy Sports + Outdoors: 10% discount (in-store from Oct. 19 to Nov. 2, 2024, as per one source, though year-round availability may vary).
- Asics: 25% off footwear and 30% off clothing and accessories.
- Atkins Nutritionals: 10% off at Atkins.com.
- Boden: 20% off orders plus free shipping on orders over $49.
- Bonobos: 20% discount.
- Dockers: 20% savings.
- Drunk Elephant: 15% discount.
- Huel: 10% off on orders of $75 or more.
- J.Crew and J.Crew Factory: 15% off purchases.
- Levi Strauss & Co.: Discount details were not fully specified.
Food, Supplements, and Entertainment
- Carrabba’s Italian Grill: 10% off Heroes Discount with any visit.
- Dave & Busters: 15% discount on food and drinks.
- Fire Department Coffee: Lifetime 15% discount.
- GNC: 10% discount on supplements and vitamins.
- Legoland Florida and New York: Free entry for first responders. Legoland California offers free entry on the second day of a visit.
- Outback Steakhouse: 10% discount.
- RaceTrac: Free coffee, fountain drink, or frozen drink daily.
Travel and Automotive
- Beaches Resorts: Additional 10% off special promotions.
- CheapCaribbean.com: $150 off beach vacations with the Rescue2Relax Club.
- Dodge Ram: $500 discount on select 2024, 2025, and 2026 models.
- Ford Motor Company: Cash reward toward purchase or lease of a new vehicle.
- General Motors: Up to $1,000 off select vehicles.
How to Access First Responder Offers
To take advantage of these freebies and discounts, first responders typically need to provide proof of status. This can be done in two primary ways:
In-Person Verification: For most restaurant deals on National First Responders Day, first responders must present a valid work ID, badge, or other official identification at the time of purchase or order. No prior online registration is usually required for these in-person offers.
Online Verification: For year-round discounts and some specific promotions, brands often use third-party verification services. First responders may need to:
- Create an account on the brand’s website.
- Verify their employment or status through a service like ID.me, SheerID, or VerifyPass.
- Receive a unique discount code or have the discount applied automatically at checkout.
It is important to note that participation, specific offers, and local availability can vary by location and brand. Consumers are advised to check with their local participating outlet or the brand’s official website before visiting.
Conclusion
National First Responders Day on October 28 provides a significant opportunity for brands to express gratitude through free products, special meals, and substantial discounts. The 2024 offerings included a wide array of restaurant freebies, retail discounts, and entertainment deals. Looking ahead, many of these offers are predicted to continue in 2026. Beyond the annual day of recognition, numerous year-round discount programs exist across categories including retail, food, health, travel, and automotive. First responders can access these benefits by presenting valid identification in person or by completing an online verification process. While the specific details and participation may change annually, the tradition of offering these freebies and discounts remains a consistent way for businesses to honor the service of first responders across the United States.