Veterans Day is a significant federal holiday in the United States, observed annually on November 11 to honor all who have served in the U.S. armed forces. The holiday originated as Armistice Day in 1919 to commemorate the end of World War I and was later renamed in 1954 to honor veterans of all wars. In Kansas City, the day is marked by a variety of community events, tributes, and, notably, a wide array of complimentary offers and discounts from local and national businesses. These gestures serve as a public expression of gratitude to past and present service members. This article details the verified Veterans Day freebies and discounts available in the Kansas City area for the 2025 holiday, based on information from local deal sites and business announcements.
The offers typically extend to veterans and active-duty military personnel, with some promotions also including family members or first responders. Redemption generally requires proof of military status, such as a military ID, and most deals are valid for dine-in only on November 11, unless otherwise specified. Participating locations, offer availability, and specific terms can vary, so it is advisable to confirm details with the individual establishment prior to visiting.
Verified Veterans Day Offers for 2025
Businesses across the food and beverage, automotive, and service industries have announced special Veterans Day promotions. The following list compiles offers that have been independently verified for the 2025 holiday. It is not exhaustive, as additional deals may be announced as the date approaches.
Restaurant and Food Service Offers
Many restaurants offer complimentary meals or special menus to honor veterans and active-duty service members. These offers are typically available for dine-in only on November 11 and require proof of service.
- Applebee’s: Veterans and active service members can receive a free meal from a select menu on November 11. The menu includes entrées such as a Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, a 6 oz. Top Sirloin, Chicken Tenders Platters, Double Crunch Shrimp, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Oriental Chicken Salad, or Three-Cheese Chicken Penne. In addition to the free meal, participants will receive a $5 Bounce Back Card for a future visit within a three-week redemption window.
- Bonefish Grill: On Veterans Day, veterans and active military members can enjoy a free Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer. It is important to note that not all locations may participate, so checking with the local restaurant is recommended. Bonefish Grill also offers a year-round Heroes Discount of 10% off for all service members, veterans, and first responders.
- Buffalo Wild Wings: On November 11, all past and present armed services members can receive a free order of 10 boneless wings and fries. For Buffalo Wild Wings GO locations, the deal is only available for walk-in or counter orders.
- Carrabba’s Italian Grill: Similar to Bonefish Grill, Carrabba’s offers a year-round Heroes Discount of 10% off for all service members, veterans, and first responders.
- Chili’s: Veterans and active military members can enjoy a free entrée from a select menu on November 11.
- Denny’s: Active, non-active, and retired military personnel can get a free Original Grand Slam breakfast on November 11, from 5 a.m. to noon. Some locations may open later than 5 a.m.
- Dunkin’: Veterans and active military personnel can receive a free donut at participating Dunkin’ locations on November 11.
- Einstein Bros. Bagels: Veterans and active-duty service members can enjoy a free hot or iced coffee (any size) on November 11. Specialty beverages are excluded from the offer. For online orders, the promo code FREECOFFEE should be used.
- Fazoli’s: On November 11, all active military and veterans can receive a free Spaghetti with Marinara or Meat Sauce when dining in or ordering online with the promo code Vet25.
- IHOP: Veterans can receive free red, white, and blue pancakes between 7 AM and 7 PM on Friday, November 10. The pancakes are buttermilk pancakes topped with blueberry and strawberry toppings and whipped cream.
- Red Robin: Veterans can receive a free Red’s Tavern Double Burger and bottomless steak fries on Veterans Day.
- Village Inn: Veterans and active military personnel can enjoy a free breakfast all day on November 11. They can choose any four items from the V.I.B. menu to create their own breakfast.
Non-Food Offers and Services
Beyond restaurants, other businesses provide complimentary services or admissions to show appreciation for veterans.
- Car Wash: Grace For Vets is coordinating a free car wash for veterans and military personnel on Veterans Day. This offer is available at participating car wash locations across the country.
- Dave & Buster’s: Veterans and active-duty military personnel can receive a free entrée (up to a $20 value) and a free $10 Power Card on November 11.
- Great Clips: Veterans visiting Great Clips on November 11 will receive either a free haircut or a free haircut card to redeem at a later date. Friends and family can also purchase a haircut and receive a free haircut card to give to a veteran.
- Kansas City Zoo: The zoo offers free admission to all veterans and their family members living in the same household on Veterans Day.
Important Guidelines for Redeeming Offers
When planning to use Veterans Day freebies, it is crucial to be aware of common terms and conditions that apply to most promotions.
- Proof of Service: Almost all offers require verification of military status or service. This is typically satisfied with a military ID, paperwork, or by appearing in uniform.
- Participation and Availability: Offers are valid only at participating locations and while supplies last. It is highly recommended to contact the specific business beforehand to confirm they are participating in the promotion.
- Eligibility: Deals are generally open only to veterans and active military members. Family members are not included unless the offer explicitly states otherwise.
- Dine-In vs. Takeout: Most restaurant offers are valid for dine-in only. Exceptions are noted, such as Fazoli’s online ordering.
- Additional Costs: The offers typically cover the cost of the meal or service but do not include gratuity or tax. Patrons should be prepared to pay for these additional costs.
- Limits: There is usually a limit of one offer per person.
Community and Local Events
Beyond commercial offers, Veterans Day in Kansas City is also a time for community tributes and support programs. Local organizations and media outlets often highlight these events. For instance, the Kansas City community uses the day to acknowledge the sacrifices of all service members, including highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of Mexican American veterans from the Vietnam War. Furthermore, organizations like Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph have expanded their veterans programs with additional federal funding, offering support services beyond the holiday. The VFW also uses the day to salute all service members, acknowledge military families, and advocate for veteran support.
Conclusion
Veterans Day in Kansas City presents a significant opportunity for veterans and active-duty military personnel to access a wide range of free meals, services, and admissions. The offers from businesses like Applebee’s, Bonefish Grill, Buffalo Wild Wings, Denny’s, and the Kansas City Zoo serve as a tangible expression of community gratitude. To ensure a smooth experience, veterans should always verify participation with their local establishment, have proof of service readily available, and understand the specific terms of each offer. By combining these commercial freebies with local community events and support programs, Kansas City provides a multifaceted day of honor and appreciation for its veterans.