Veterans Day is a national holiday in the United States, observed annually on November 11, dedicated to honoring all military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. While some brands offer year-round discounts to active duty military personnel and veterans, many retailers, restaurants, and service providers significantly increase their offerings for this specific day. These promotions range from complimentary meals and services to percentage-based discounts on a wide array of products and experiences. For consumers who are veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, National Guardsmen, and their families, Veterans Day presents a unique opportunity to access a variety of freebies and deals. The following guide details the verified offers for Veterans Day 2025, based on information from official brand announcements and reputable deal-tracking sources.
The types of offers available span numerous categories, including food and beverage, retail shopping, automotive services, entertainment, and travel. Eligibility for these promotions typically requires proof of military service, such as a valid military ID, VA card, or DD214 form. Many offers are extended to active-duty personnel, veterans, and in some cases, their spouses and dependents. It is important for participants to note that while many deals are confirmed for national chains, some offers may vary by location, and it is always advisable to call ahead or check with local establishments for specific details and requirements.
Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Discounts
A significant portion of Veterans Day promotions comes from the restaurant industry, with numerous national chains offering free meals or deep discounts to service members. These offers are generally valid for dine-in service on November 11, 2025, unless otherwise specified.
Applebee’s is offering a free dine-in meal from a select menu for active-duty military, veterans, Reservists, and Guardsmen on November 11, 2025. This is a longstanding Veterans Day tradition for the chain.
Another Broken Egg Cafe will provide veterans, active duty, and retired military personnel with a complimentary Patriot French Toast, topped with strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream, paired with Barista House Blend Coffee. This offer is for dine-in only on November 11.
Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar will give veterans a free BD’s Burger with a classic side on November 11, available until 4 PM.
Bandana’s BBQ is offering veterans a free Pork Sandwich Meal with a regular side on November 11.
Biscuit Belly will provide veterans with a free biscuit sandwich from a select menu, along with a drip coffee or fountain drink, on November 11.
Buffalo Wild Wings will offer 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.
Chipotle has a unique offer for November 11: from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. local time, guests who order an entrée in-restaurant and present a valid military ID will receive a second entrée for free. This promotion applies to Chipotle bowls, burritos, salads, and taco entrees.
Texas Roadhouse will provide veterans and military members with a free Texas Roadhouse meal voucher on November 11. This voucher can be redeemed in-restaurant or for carry-out and is valid through May 30, 2026.
Bar Louie offers a free burger (excluding the Big Louie) for veterans and active-duty service members who are dining in on November 10 and 11.
BIGGBY Coffee is providing veterans with any 16-ounce beverage for $1.99 on November 11.
Aroma Joe’s is giving veterans a free 24-ounce drink of their choice on November 11.
Barbeque at Home by Dickey’s is offering veterans a 15% discount on all orders from November 11 through December 31. The discount code is VETERAN15.
It is noted that all restaurant locations are independently owned and operated, and additional Veterans Day offers may be available at different locations. Calling ahead to local franchise locations and arriving early at high-traffic restaurants is recommended.
Veterans Day Retail Discounts
Many major retailers offer special discounts for veterans and military members on Veterans Day. These deals often apply to storewide purchases or specific categories.
Target is offering a 10% military discount through November 11 to all active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. The discount can be used on two separate transactions, both in-store and online.
Walgreens is providing a 20% discount for veterans and military personnel all Veterans Day weekend long.
Academy Sports + Outdoors is offering a 10% discount through Veterans Day.
Kohl’s typically boosts its military discount to 30% for veterans and military on Veterans Day. Throughout the year, Kohl’s hosts Military Mondays, offering military, veterans, and immediate family a 15% discount (in-store only).
Born Primitive offers a year-round 15% military discount. In addition, the company donates 100% of its Veterans Day profits to help pay off medical debt for veterans.
Army & Air Force Exchange Service provides various deals, including 10 cents off every gallon of gas at fuel locations.
Other retailers mentioned offer a 10% discount on Veterans Day, which is often a highlight of their year-round 10% discount for veterans, military, first responders, and families.
Veterans Day Free Services and Automotive Deals
Beyond food and retail, several service providers offer complimentary or discounted services for veterans on Veterans Day.
Great Clips provides a free haircut on Veterans Day. Veterans can also choose to redeem a haircut card for a future visit.
Grace for Vets Car Wash Program offers a free car wash at thousands of locations nationwide. Participants can find a location near them through the program’s website.
Meineke offers a free oil change at select locations on Veterans Day.
Jiffy Lube typically provides a 50% discount on oil changes on Veterans Day, in addition to a 15% military discount year-round (which varies by location).
Valvoline Instant Oil Change usually offers a free oil change on Veterans Day, alongside a 15% military discount year-round.
ZIPS Car Wash provides veterans and active military with a free top car wash when using the code VETS at check-out.
Local barber shops and salons may also offer free or discounted haircuts or other services. It is advisable to check websites, social media pages, or call ahead to find out about local offers.
Veterans Day Entertainment and Travel Discounts
Several entertainment venues and travel providers offer special deals for veterans during the Veterans Day period.
AMC Theatres often offers a free large popcorn on Veterans Day, in addition to a year-round military discount at participating locations.
Regal Cinemas often provides free tickets to veterans and military members for special Veterans Day showings, in addition to year-round discounts available at participating locations.
Amusement Parks & Zoos: * Cincinnati Zoo (Ohio): Offers free admission for veterans on Veterans Day (and on the Fourth of July and Memorial Day), with discounted tickets for family. * Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia): Provides 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): Offers 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): Offers discounted tickets for veterans, military members, and family during Military Tribute Days (Monday through Thursday, Nov. 3–20 and Dec. 1–18).
Lodging: * B&B for Vets: Offers free or discounted accommodations for veterans traditionally around Veterans Day but throughout the year as well. * Red Roof Inn: Veterans can save 15% when booking a stay.
Other Events: * Veterans Homecoming Week: A week of complimentary events, discounts, celebrations, and meals for veterans from November 5 to November 11 in Branson, MO.
Eligibility and Verification Requirements
To access Veterans Day freebies and discounts, proof of service is almost universally required. Most restaurants and retailers will ask for a valid military ID, VA card, DD214, or other official proof of service. Some establishments may accept a uniform, but bringing documentation is the safest option.
The deals are typically available to veterans, active-duty personnel, Guard, and Reserve members. Many offers also extend to spouses and dependents, though this can vary by vendor. It is important to check the specific terms of each promotion.
Conclusion
Veterans Day 2025 offers a wide array of freebies and discounts designed to honor the service and sacrifice of U.S. military veterans and active-duty personnel. The promotions span multiple sectors, from free meals at national restaurant chains to significant retail discounts and complimentary services like haircuts and car washes. For service members and their families, these offers provide tangible benefits and a way for businesses and communities to express gratitude. To maximize these opportunities, veterans should prepare their proof of service in advance, verify offer details with local establishments, and plan accordingly, as popular deals may require early arrival or have specific time limitations.