Grandparents Day is an official national holiday in the United States, celebrated annually on the first Sunday after Labor Day. In 2024, the holiday falls on September 11. First established in 1978 after President Jimmy Carter signed it into law, the day provides an opportunity for families to honor grandparents and for businesses to offer special promotions, freebies, and discounts. This article details the types of free offers and promotional deals available to grandparents and their families on this day, based on information from promotional websites and deal blogs.
Where to Find Free Admission and Access
A variety of venues offer free or discounted admission for grandparents on Grandparents Day, often requiring the presence of a paying grandchild or adult family member. These offers are typically available only on the holiday itself or during the surrounding weekend.
Botanical Gardens and Nature Centers
Several botanical gardens across the country provide free entry for grandparents. Examples include: - Agecroft Hall’s Gardens and Grounds in Central Virginia. - Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Southwest Florida (Fort Myers). - The Green Bay Botanical Garden in Green Bay, Wisconsin. - The South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Museums and Cultural Institutions
A wide range of museums offer free admission for grandparents. Participating institutions include: - Charles M. Schultz Museum in Santa Rosa, California. - Discovery Center Museum in Rockford, Illinois. - Monterey County Youth Museum in Monterey, California. - Pretend City Children’s Museum in Irvine, California. - Sauder Village in Ohio. - Science Mill Museum in Johnson City, Texas. - Additional museums mentioned in promotional materials include Evergreen Aviation & Space, Harley-Davidson, Heritage, Historic Adams House and Days of ‘76, James Polk Home, McKinley, and National Civil War Museum.
Theme Parks
Silverwood Theme Park in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, offers free admission for grandparents on Grandparents Day when they are accompanied by a paying grandchild. This promotion was noted for the 2022 holiday, and similar offers may be available in subsequent years, though specific 2024 details were not provided in the source material.
Free Gifts, Services, and Retail Promotions
Local and national businesses often provide free gifts or services to grandparents on Grandparents Day. These offers vary by location and may require a purchase or specific visit.
Free Gifts with Purchase
- Armstrong Garden Centers in California offer free potted plants for grandparents making a purchase.
- Tattered Cover Book Store in Denver, Colorado, provides free tote bags with any purchase for grandparents.
- Powell’s Books in Portland, Oregon, offers free bookmarks or a small book with any purchase for grandparents.
- The Getty in Los Angeles, California, grants free entry and a complimentary art print for grandparents.
- Lakeshore Learning Stores (nationwide) provide free craft kits for grandparents shopping with grandchildren during Grandparents Day events.
- The Popcorn Factory (Chicago, IL) distributes free small popcorn bags during Grandparents Day events in local community centers.
Free Services
- Great Clips (nationwide) offers free haircuts to grandparents who visit on Grandparents Day.
- PetSmart (various locations) provides free pet grooming services for grandparents.
- JCPenney Portraits (nationwide) offers free photo sessions for grandparents and their grandchildren.
- Massage Envy (nationwide) gives free mini massages to grandparents visiting on Grandparents Day.
- Local Senior Centers (various locations) offer free wellness check-ups and fitness classes for grandparents.
Other Retail and Entertainment Offers
- New York Public Library (NY) provides free book rentals and storytime sessions for grandparents and grandchildren.
- Guthrie Theater (Minneapolis, MN) offers free admission to specific performances for grandparents.
- Blue Bottle Coffee (San Francisco, CA) was noted in promotional material, though specific offer details were not provided.
- Local Farmers Markets (Oregon, Washington, and various locations) offer free produce samples for grandparents visiting with their grandchildren.
Restaurant Deals and Free Meals
Many restaurants offer special Grandparents Day promotions, including free meals, desserts, or discounts. These deals typically require dining in with family and may vary by location. It is recommended to confirm participation with local establishments.
Free Meals or Breakfasts
- Denny’s: Free Grand Slam breakfast for grandparents dining in at participating locations.
- Perkins Restaurant & Bakery: Free Magnificent Seven breakfast with the purchase of a grandchild's meal.
- Applebee’s: A free meal for grandparents with the purchase of an entrée by a grandchild.
- IHOP: Free pancakes when dining in with grandchildren.
Free Desserts, Appetizers, or Add-ons
- Cracker Barrel: Free dessert with the purchase of a meal on Grandparents Day, along with 10% off in the gift shop for grandparents.
- Olive Garden: Free dessert with the purchase of two adult entrees.
- Texas Roadhouse: Offers a free side or appetizer with a grandchild’s meal purchase.
- Chili’s: Free appetizer or dessert for grandparents dining with their families.
- Bob Evans: Free slice of pie with the purchase of an entrée.
- P.F. Chang’s: Free appetizer with the purchase of an entrée.
- Red Lobster: Free appetizer with the purchase of an adult entrée.
- Buffalo Wild Wings: Free order of wings with the purchase of a grandchild’s meal.
Discounted Meals
- Golden Corral: 10% off the buffet for grandparents dining with family.
- Outback Steakhouse: 10% discount for grandparents dining with their families.
Special Treats
- Dairy Queen: Buy one, get one free on ice cream treats.
National Park Access and Senior Passes
While not exclusive to Grandparents Day, seniors aged 62 and older can obtain a Senior Pass for discounted or free entry to U.S. national parks and federal recreation sites. The Senior Pass is available for a one-time fee of $80 or an annual fee of $20. It provides lifetime access to over 2,000 sites and may include additional perks like guided tours at some parks. This pass is a valuable resource for grandparents seeking year-round access to natural attractions.
Educational and Craft Freebies for Grandparents Day Activities
For educators and families planning Grandparents Day activities, several free printable resources are available for classroom or home use. These include coloring sheets, craft templates, and interactive activities designed for kindergarten and early elementary students. Examples noted in promotional blogs include: - A Pete the Cat coloring sheet. - A “roll a grandparent” activity (a dice game, not a physical activity). - Illustration activities where children draw themselves as grandparents, featuring grey hair, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs.
These freebies are typically offered through educational blogs and teacher resource sites, often requiring a direct download from a provided link.
Important Considerations for Consumers
When seeking Grandparents Day freebies and deals, consumers should be aware of the following: - Eligibility: Many offers require grandparents to be accompanied by a paying grandchild or family member. Some discounts are specifically for seniors (typically 62+). - Geographic Restrictions: Offers vary by location. National chains may have participating locations, but not all stores or restaurants may honor the promotion. It is advisable to call ahead. - Verification: Promotional offers are often listed on deal blogs and community websites. For the most accurate and current information, consumers should check directly with the official brand websites, local store branches, or restaurant locations. - Timing: Promotions are generally valid only on Grandparents Day (the first Sunday after Labor Day) or during the immediate weekend. Some extended deals may run for several days preceding the holiday. - Purchase Requirements: Many free gifts or services are contingent on a purchase (e.g., free dessert with a meal, free tote bag with a book purchase). Consumers should review the specific terms of each offer.
Conclusion
Grandparents Day provides a meaningful opportunity for families to connect and for businesses to show appreciation through a variety of freebies and promotional offers. These range from free admission to museums, gardens, and theme parks, to complimentary services like haircuts and photo sessions, and special dining deals at national restaurant chains. While the holiday is officially observed on the first Sunday after Labor Day, many promotions are available throughout the weekend. Consumers are encouraged to verify offer details, eligibility requirements, and participating locations directly with the businesses, as promotions can change annually and vary by region. For educators and families, free printable activities are also available online to enhance Grandparents Day celebrations.