Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11th, is a national holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring all military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. In recognition of this service, numerous businesses across the country extend special offers, including free meals, retail discounts, service vouchers, and complimentary admissions. These Veterans Day freebies and deals are typically available to active-duty service members, veterans, members of the National Guard and Reserves, and often extend to their spouses and dependents. The availability of these offers can vary by location, and most require valid proof of military service.
This guide details the types of Veterans Day freebies available, the common eligibility requirements, and the categories of businesses that participate. It is important to note that while many deals are confirmed for Veterans Day 2025, others are subject to verification by corporate partners and individual franchise locations. Consumers are advised to call ahead and arrive early, especially for popular restaurant chains, to ensure participation and availability.
Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Offers
A significant portion of Veterans Day freebies consists of complimentary meals and discounts at restaurants across the United States. These offers are a popular way for businesses to show gratitude to service members. The process typically requires dining in and presenting a valid form of military identification. Some offers also extend to takeout or carryout services.
National chains and local restaurants often participate with specific menu items or vouchers. For example, Buffalo Wild Wings offers 10 free boneless wings and fries to veterans and active-duty service members with valid ID on November 11. This promotion is available for dine-in or walk-in only. Texas Roadhouse provides a free meal voucher on Veterans Day at participating locations, which can be redeemed in-restaurant or for carry-out through May 30, 2026. Chipotle’s promotion on November 11, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. local time, allows guests who order an entrée in-restaurant and present a valid military ID to receive a second entrée for free, applicable to bowls, burritos, salads, and taco entrees.
Other notable national chains with Veterans Day meal offers include: - Applebee’s: Veterans receive a choice of one of eight free special Veterans Day meals and a $5 Bounce Back Card with dine-in service and proof of military service. - Bar Louie: Veterans get a free burger with dine-in visit and valid ID. - Bob Evans: Veterans receive a free choice of meal from the Veterans Day menu with dine-in visit and proof of service. - Buca Di Beppo: Veterans get a free lunch entrée with dine-in visit, military ID, and a specific code. - California Pizza Kitchen: Veterans receive a free entrée and beverage from the Veterans Day menu with dine-in visit and proof of service. - Chevys: Veterans get a free 2-item combo with dine-in visit, service ID, and a code. - City Barbeque: Veterans receive a free sandwich, one side, and a drink with an in-store visit (dine-in or carryout) and proof of service. - Cody’s Original Roadhouse: Veterans receive a free meal. - Another Broken Egg Café: Veterans get a free Patriot French Toast Combo and Coffee with dine-in visit and valid ID.
It is noted that most of these offers are valid on Veterans Day only, though some are valid all weekend or on another date. The list of over 80 restaurant offers includes both national chains and local eateries. Consumers should be aware that all locations are independently owned and operated, and additional Veterans Day offers may be available at different locations. Pro tips for these freebies include calling ahead to local franchise locations and arriving early at high-traffic restaurants.
Veterans Day Retail Discounts and Freebies
Retailers also participate in Veterans Day by offering significant discounts, and in some cases, free products or services. These offers are available both in-store and online, though specific requirements may differ.
Target offers a 10% military discount through November 11 to all active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. This discount can be used on two separate transactions, in-store or online. The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) provides various deals, including 10 cents off every gallon of gas at fuel locations.
Other retailers highlighted in the source material include: - Born Primitive: In addition to a year-round 15% military discount, this brand donates 100% of its Veterans Day profits to help pay off medical debt for veterans. - Kohl’s: Generally offers a 30% discount for military and veterans on Veterans Day. Throughout the year, Kohl’s hosts Military Mondays, offering military, veterans, and immediate family a 15% discount (in-store only). - Other retailers noted for discounts (10% off year-round, often highlighted on Veterans Day) include various brands, though specific names are not all listed in the provided data. The data indicates a year-round 10% discount for veterans, military, and first responders at some retailers, with a potential increase to 30% off around Veterans Day at others (in-store only). - A 50% discount on any plan for life is highlighted on Veterans Day by a specific provider. - 10% off groceries for veterans and active military is available on Veterans Day at a participating retailer. - A free U.S. military ring is offered from November (specific retailer not fully detailed).
The source material notes that there is no specific Veterans Day deal at some retailers, but a year-round 10% discount for veterans, military, first responders, and families is available. Consumers should verify specific terms and conditions for each retailer.
Veterans Day Free Services: Haircuts, Car Washes, and Automotive Deals
Service-based businesses also contribute to Veterans Day freebies by offering complimentary or discounted services. These offers are often available at national chains and local providers.
Haircuts and Grooming: - Great Clips offers a free haircut on Veterans Day, or veterans can redeem a haircut card for a later date. - Local barber shops and salons may also offer free or discounted haircuts or other services. It is recommended to check websites, social media pages, or call ahead to find out about specific local offers.
Car Washes and Automotive Services: - Grace for Vets Car Wash Program provides free car washes at thousands of locations nationwide. A location finder is available. - Meineke offers a free oil change at select locations. - Jiffy Lube typically offers a 50% discount on oil changes on Veterans Day, along with a 15% military discount year-round (varies by location). - Valvoline Instant Oil Change usually offers a free oil change on Veterans Day, with a 15% military discount year-round.
These service offers are subject to location and availability, and consumers are advised to confirm with individual providers.
Veterans Day Free Admissions and Entertainment
Museums, amusement parks, and zoos often provide free or discounted admission to veterans and military families on Veterans Day. These offers can extend to spouses and dependents and may cover multiple days around the holiday.
- Cincinnati Zoo (Ohio): Free admission for veterans on the Fourth of July, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day, with discounted tickets for family.
- Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia): Free admission during Veterans Day weekend (Friday, Nov. 7 through Tuesday, Nov. 11) to all active-duty military, reservists, retirees, veterans, National Guardsmen, and their immediate dependents.
- Georgia Aquarium (Atlanta): Free admission for active military and veterans, plus a 30% discount in the gift shop, on November 10-11 and other “Military Mondays.”
- Knott’s Berry Farm (California): Discounted tickets for veterans, military members, and family during Military Tribute Days, Monday through Thursday, Nov. 3–20 and Dec. 1–18.
Other Veterans Day freebies and deals may be available at amusement parks and zoos not listed here. It is recommended to check individual venue websites for the most current information.
Eligibility and Proof of Service Requirements
Eligibility for Veterans Day freebies and discounts generally includes: - Veterans (including those who served in the National Guard and Reserves) - Active-duty military personnel - Spouses and dependents (for many, but not all, offers)
Proof of service is almost always required. The most commonly accepted forms of identification include: - A valid military or veteran ID (e.g., VA card, state-issued veteran designation) - DD214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) - A current military ID card - Other official documentation proving military service
Some offers may require a specific code or coupon. The source material emphasizes the importance of bringing a valid ID to claim Veterans Day freebies.
Planning and Maximizing Veterans Day Offers
With over 300 Veterans Day freebies, discounts, and giveaways available across restaurants, retail, travel, entertainment, and services, planning is key to maximizing benefits. Many deals are confirmed for 2025, while others will be updated as national and local locations release verification information.
Key recommendations from the source material include: - Always bring a valid military ID. - Call ahead to confirm participation, especially for local or franchise locations. - Arrive early at high-traffic restaurants to avoid long waits or sold-out offers. - Check if offers are valid on Veterans Day only or throughout the weekend. - Note that some deals are available to everyone, not just veterans.
Consumers should stay updated as Veterans Day approaches, as the list of offers is frequently updated. The provided source material is actively updated for 2025, and new confirmations are released leading up to the holiday.
Conclusion
Veterans Day provides a meaningful opportunity for businesses to honor military service through a wide array of freebies and discounts. From complimentary meals at popular restaurants and free haircuts to retail discounts and free admissions to attractions, the offers are diverse and numerous. Eligibility typically extends to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families, with proof of service required for redemption. By planning ahead, verifying offer details, and arriving early, eligible participants can fully benefit from these Veterans Day freebies. The landscape of offers is dynamic, with many confirmed for 2025 and others pending verification, underscoring the importance of checking with providers directly for the most accurate and current information.