Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, is a significant date in the United States dedicated to honoring military veterans. For U.S. consumers, particularly veterans, active-duty personnel, reservists, National Guard members, and their families, it represents a key opportunity to access a wide array of freebies, discounts, and special offers. Businesses across the nation—from national restaurant chains and automotive service providers to amusement parks and retail stores—participate in these observances to show appreciation for military service. The following guide, compiled from verified sources and recent announcements, details the types of freebies available, eligibility requirements, and key considerations for accessing these offers in 2025.
Understanding Veterans Day Offers
Veterans Day offers are distinct from Memorial Day, which honors those who died in service. Veterans Day specifically recognizes all individuals who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The offers detailed in this guide are typically available to veterans, active-duty military, reservists, National Guard members, and, in many cases, their spouses and dependents. However, eligibility can vary by business, and proof of service is almost universally required.
Common forms of acceptable identification include a valid military ID, a VA card, a DD214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), or a state-issued driver’s license with a veteran designation. It is strongly advised that individuals bring one or more of these forms of identification when seeking to redeem an offer. Furthermore, many deals are location-specific, particularly for franchise businesses like restaurants and automotive shops. Therefore, calling ahead to confirm participation at a specific location is a recommended best practice. Offers are also often time-sensitive, available only on November 11 or during a specific weekend window, so planning is essential.
Free Meals and Restaurant Discounts
One of the most widespread and anticipated categories of Veterans Day freebies is complimentary meals and discounts at national restaurant chains. Numerous brands offer free entrees, specific menu items, or significant discounts to veterans and active-duty service members on November 11.
Key Restaurant Offers for Veterans Day 2025:
- Applebee’s: Active-duty military, veterans, Reservists, and Guardsmen receive a free dine-in meal from a select menu on November 11, 2025.
- Buffalo Wild Wings: On November 11, the chain offers 10 free boneless wings and fries to veterans and active-duty service members with valid ID. This is available for dine-in or walk-in only.
- Texas Roadhouse: Participating locations 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 through May 30, 2026.
- Chipotle: On 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. The promotion applies to Chipotle bowls, burritos, salads, and taco entrees.
- Bar Louie: Veterans and active-duty service members dining in receive a free burger (excluding the Big Louie) on November 10 and 11.
- Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar: Veterans receive a free BD’s Burger with a classic side on November 11 until 4 p.m.
- Bandana’s BBQ: Veterans receive a free Pork Sandwich Meal with a regular side on November 11.
- Biscuit Belly: Veterans receive a free biscuit sandwich from a select menu and a drip coffee or fountain drink on November 11.
- Barbeque at Home by Dickey’s: Veterans receive a 15% discount on all orders (using code VETERAN15) from November 11 through December 31.
Other chains mentioned in source data include Aroma Joe’s (free 24-ounce drink for veterans on Nov. 11) and BIGGBY Coffee (any 16-ounce beverage for $1.99 for veterans on Nov. 11). The concept of a free meal is widespread, with chains from Applebee’s to Chili’s participating, and local establishments also often offer similar deals. It is important to note that offers may differ between dine-in and takeout; for example, Buffalo Wild Wings' offer is for dine-in or walk-in only, while Texas Roadhouse provides a voucher valid for both.
Automotive and Service Freebies
Several automotive service providers offer free or discounted services to veterans and active military members around Veterans Day. These can range from free car washes to discounted or complimentary oil changes.
Automotive and Service Offers:
- Grace for Vets Car Wash Program: This program provides free car washes at thousands of participating locations nationwide. Veterans can find a location near them.
- ZIPS Car Wash: Veterans and active military receive a free top car wash when using the code VETS at check-out.
- Valvoline Instant Oil Change: This chain usually offers a free oil change on Veterans Day. A 15% military discount is available year-round, though this may vary by location.
- Jiffy Lube: Typically offers a 50% discount on oil changes on Veterans Day. A 15% military discount is also available year-round, varying by location.
- Meineke: Select locations offer a free oil change on Veterans Day.
Entertainment, Travel, and Recreation
Many entertainment venues, including amusement parks, zoos, and museums, offer free or discounted admission to veterans and military members. Some offers are available on Veterans Day, while others are part of broader military appreciation programs that may be active at other times of the year.
Entertainment and Travel Offers:
- National Park Service: Any member of the military, past or present, can enter any national park for free with a military ID, Veterans Affairs ID, or a state-issued driver’s license showing their service. This grants access to over 2,000 sites. An annual park pass can be issued at any park gate. Some parks may require reservations.
- SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment: Through the Waves of Honor program, military members and veterans receive one free ticket and three additional tickets for friends and family via ID.me, plus the option to buy up to six discounted tickets. This is available year-round to current service members (including reservists and National Guard). Veterans can receive free tickets during seasonal promotions, which in past years have included May to September and on Veterans Day. A $99.99 Annual Military Pass is also available for veterans and their families.
- 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 (November 7–11) 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 (November 3–20 and December 1–18).
- Baseball Hall of Fame: While not explicitly detailed in the source text, it is listed as one of the "7 Leading Brands: Exclusive Freebies for Military Members," indicating a free or discounted admission offer for military personnel.
- Veterans Homecoming Week: A week of complimentary events, discounts, celebrations, and meals for veterans from November 5 to November 11 in Branson, MO.
Retail and General Merchandise Discounts
Beyond food and entertainment, Veterans Day is a major retail event where many stores offer percentage-based discounts on purchases. These are often available to military members, veterans, and their families.
Retail Offers:
- Target: Target offers 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, in-store or online.
- Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES): AAFES offers various deals, including 10 cents off every gallon of gas at fuel locations.
Important Considerations and Best Practices
To successfully navigate Veterans Day freebies, consumers should adhere to several key guidelines:
- Proof of Service: Always bring a valid military ID, VA card, DD214, or state-issued veteran designation. This is the most critical requirement for redemption.
- Location Verification: Many offers, especially from franchises like restaurants and car washes, are at the discretion of individual owners. Calling the specific location ahead of time is essential to confirm participation and any unique rules.
- Timing: Most offers are valid only on November 11, 2025, or during a specific weekend. Some, like the Texas Roadhouse voucher, have a later redemption period, but the initial offer is time-bound. Arriving early is advised for popular restaurants to avoid long lines.
- Eligibility Scope: While most offers are for veterans and active-duty personnel, many extend to spouses and dependents. The SeaWorld Waves of Honor program, for example, provides tickets for friends and family. The Colonial Williamsburg offer explicitly includes immediate dependents.
- Verification Status: It is important to note that the availability of offers can change. As of the 2025 planning period, many deals are confirmed, while others are pending final verification from corporate partners and franchise locations. Consumers should check for the most current information as Veterans Day approaches.
Conclusion
Veterans Day 2025 presents a significant opportunity for veterans, active-duty military, and their families to access a broad spectrum of freebies and discounts. The offerings span essential categories including food (free meals at major chains), services (free car washes and discounted oil changes), entertainment (free admission to zoos, aquariums, and amusement parks), and retail (percentage discounts on purchases). The cornerstone of accessing these benefits is proper preparation: carrying valid military identification, verifying offer details with specific locations, and understanding the eligibility criteria for each promotion. By leveraging the information provided by verified sources, eligible individuals can effectively plan their day to honor their service and receive the appreciation offered by participating businesses.