Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, is a significant period for U.S. military personnel, veterans, and their families to access a variety of no-cost offers and discounts. These promotions, often structured as free meals, discounted retail purchases, or complimentary admissions, are typically made available by businesses to honor military service. The following article details verified offers, eligibility requirements, and redemption processes based on information provided by Military.com, which confirms that all featured discounts have been verified through press release or direct company communication.
The availability of these offers is subject to specific terms, which may include location restrictions, required proof of service, and limited timeframes. To access Veterans Day discounts, most businesses require proof of military service. For active-duty military members, reservists, members of the National Guard, or military retirees, the military ID card is the standard form of identification. For veterans who receive Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health benefits, the VA benefits photo ID card should serve as proof of veteran status at most businesses. If a VA benefits card is not available, the VA can provide a Veterans ID Card.
Verified Veterans Day Offers
The following offers have been confirmed for Veterans Day. It is important to note that availability may vary by location, and participants should verify details with local establishments.
Restaurant Discounts and Free Meals
Several restaurant chains offer complimentary meals or significant discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel on November 11. These promotions are typically available for dine-in or carry-out and may have specific hours of operation.
- Buffalo Wild Wings: On November 11, Buffalo Wild Wings offers 10 free boneless wings and fries to veterans and active-duty service members with valid ID. This promotion is available for dine-in or walk-in only.
- Texas Roadhouse: At participating locations, veterans and military members can obtain a free Texas Roadhouse meal voucher on November 11. This voucher is redeemable for in-restaurant dining or for carry-out, and it is valid 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.
Retail and Service Discounts
Retail and service providers also participate in Veterans Day by offering percentage-based discounts or special pricing for military members and their families.
- Target: 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, in-store or online.
- Army & Air Force Exchange Service: The Army & Air Force Exchange Service offers various deals, including 10 cents off every gallon of gas at fuel locations. Specific Veterans Day retail discounts are available through this service.
Free Admissions and Museum Discounts
Museums and historical sites often provide free admission to military personnel and their families during the Veterans Day period, allowing for family-friendly educational and recreational activities.
- Harley-Davidson Museum: On November 11, veterans and active-duty military personnel receive free Museum admission for themselves, one adult guest, and up to four children (under 18) with valid military ID.
- Colonial Williamsburg: Colonial Williamsburg offers free admission from November 7 through 11, to all active-duty military, reservists, retirees, veterans, National Guardsmen, and their immediate dependents. This extended timeframe provides flexibility for planning a visit.
- Colonial Williamsburg (Additional Note): The same free admission offer for military personnel and their immediate dependents is also available from November 7 through 11. This historical site provides an opportunity for families to explore American history at no cost during the Veterans Day week.
Understanding Eligibility and Documentation
A critical component of accessing these offers is understanding and meeting the eligibility criteria. The primary requirement is valid proof of military service or veteran status.
For active-duty personnel, reservists, National Guard members, and retirees, the military ID card is the most straightforward form of identification. For veterans who are not active-duty but receive VA health benefits, the VA benefits photo ID card is generally accepted. If a veteran does not possess a VA benefits card, they can request a Veterans ID Card from the Department of Veterans Affairs. It is advisable for individuals to ensure they have the appropriate identification before attempting to redeem an offer, as businesses typically do not accept alternative forms of proof.
Important Considerations for Participants
When planning to take advantage of Veterans Day offers, consumers should be aware of several key factors. First, offers are often limited to specific locations. Not all franchises or branches of a national chain may participate, so checking with a local establishment beforehand is recommended. Second, promotions may have specific time restrictions, such as the Chipotle offer being valid only between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Third, some offers, like the Texas Roadhouse voucher, have a long redemption period, while others are valid only on November 11.
The list of discounts provided by Military.com is updated frequently, and consumers are encouraged to visit the site daily for the most current information. While the offers detailed in this article are confirmed, new deals may emerge as Veterans Day approaches.
Conclusion
Veterans Day provides a meaningful opportunity for U.S. businesses to extend gratitude to military personnel and veterans through a variety of no-cost offers and discounts. The verified offers from restaurants like Buffalo Wild Wings, Texas Roadhouse, and Chipotle, along with retail discounts from Target and free admissions to sites like Colonial Williamsburg and the Harley-Davidson Museum, demonstrate a broad recognition of military service. To successfully access these benefits, eligible individuals must possess valid proof of service, such as a military ID card or VA benefits card. By understanding the specific terms, locations, and timeframes associated with each offer, veterans and active-duty military members can fully utilize these Veterans Day acknowledgments.