Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, serves as a significant day of recognition for military service members in the United States. While the holiday honors veterans and active-duty personnel, it also presents a unique opportunity for consumers to access a variety of free meals and retail discounts. Numerous brands participate by offering complimentary food items, beverages, and percentage-based savings. Based on recent promotional data, the following guide outlines the specific offers available, eligibility requirements, and redemption methods for Veterans Day 2025.
Restaurant and Food Service Offers
The majority of Veterans Day promotions focus on the food and beverage sector, with many national chains providing free meals to veterans and active-duty military personnel. These offers typically require proof of service, such as a military ID, and are valid only on November 11 unless otherwise specified.
Free Meal and Beverage Promotions
Several restaurants offer entirely free meals, while others provide specific menu items or require a purchase to unlock the freebie.
- Denny’s: Veterans and active-duty military personnel are eligible for a free Original Grand Slam. This offer is valid on November 11 from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
- Applebee’s: Veterans and active-duty military receive a free meal from a select menu on November 11.
- Olive Garden: A free entree from a special menu is available to veterans and active-duty military with an ID on November 11.
- Outback Steakhouse: Veterans and active-duty military can receive a free Aussie 3-Course Meal with valid military ID when dining in. This offer is valid on November 10 and 11 and includes select entrées.
- Cracker Barrel: A free sunrise pancake breakfast is available on November 11.
- IHOP: Veterans and active-duty military will receive a free Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo on November 11 as part of the "Heroes Eat Free" promotion.
- Golden Corral: A free dinner buffet and beverage are available on November 11 from 4:00 PM to close.
- Logan’s Roadhouse: A free meal from a select menu is available on November 11 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- Eddie Merlot’s: Veterans and active-duty service members receive a free Eddie’s Prime Cheeseburger with Fries on November 11.
- Main Event: Veterans and active-duty service members can receive a free double cheeseburger and fries, plus 30 minutes of gameplay, on November 11 only with military ID.
- Perry’s Steakhouse: A free dinner-cut pork chop meal is available with a paying guest, or at half-off if dining alone or with other veterans, on November 11.
- Another Broken Egg Cafe: Veterans, active duty, and retired military personnel receive a complimentary Patriot French Toast topped with strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream, paired with Barista House Blend Coffee. This is dine-in only on November 11.
Free Beverages and Snacks
In addition to full meals, several establishments offer free coffee or lighter fare for veterans.
- Einstein Bros Bagel: Veterans and active-duty military get a free hot or iced coffee (any size) on November 11, redeemable in-store or online using promo code FREECOFFEE.
- Honey Dew: A free coffee is available to all veterans on November 11, limited to one per person.
- Pilot or Flying J: Veterans, military personnel, and families can get a free breakfast sandwich and coffee or lunch item and fountain drink on November 11. This offer requires verification through ID.me in the Pilot app.
- Insomnia Cookies: A free deluxe cookie is available with a $5 purchase starting November 8 through November 11 with valid military ID. This offer is in-store only.
Offers Requiring a Purchase
Some promotions provide a free item contingent on the purchase of another product.
- Firehouse Subs: Buy any size sub and receive a second sub free on November 11.
- Famous Dave’s: Veterans get a free Georgia Chopped Pork Sandwich Lunch with a choice of side on November 11. This can be redeemed online using promo code VETERAN25.
- Dog Haus: A free Haus Dog is available on November 11.
Entertainment and Service-Based Offers
Beyond food, other businesses offer complimentary services or entertainment credits.
- Dave & Buster's: Veterans and active-duty military are invited to enjoy a free entrée (up to $20) and a $10 Power Card for gameplay. This deal is available in-store only on November 11.
- Great Clips: On November 11, veterans and active service members can visit any Great Clips salon to get a free haircut or a free haircut card to use at a later date.
- The Greene Turtle: A free meal up to $15 is available with a valid ID on November 11.
Retail and General Consumer Discounts
While the provided data focuses heavily on restaurant offers, there are also significant retail discounts available around Veterans Day. These deals extend to general merchandise, allowing consumers to save on everyday purchases.
Major Retailers
- Target: Target is offering 10% off two storewide purchases for Veterans Day.
- Walgreens: Shoppers can get 20% off at Walgreens all Veterans Day weekend long.
- Academy Sports + Outdoors: The retailer is offering 10% off through Veterans Day.
- Red Roof Inn: Travelers can book a stay and save 15%.
Conclusion
Veterans Day offers a wide array of benefits for military personnel, ranging from free breakfast items at chains like Cracker Barrel and Denny’s to full dinner entrees at Olive Garden and Outback Steakhouse. To access these offers, individuals generally need to present valid military identification or utilize specific promo codes for online orders. In addition to food, retail discounts at major stores such as Target and Walgreens provide further opportunities for savings. Consumers are advised to verify specific terms, such as dine-in requirements or time restrictions, directly with the participating brands before visiting.