Veterans Day is a national holiday in the United States, observed annually on November 11th, dedicated to honoring all military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. In recognition of their service and sacrifice, numerous businesses across the country offer special promotions, free meals, and discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel. These offers span a wide range of industries, including restaurants, retail stores, entertainment venues, and service providers. This article provides a detailed overview of Veterans Day 2024 freebies and deals, with a specific focus on opportunities available in Columbia, South Carolina, as well as broader national offers. The information is compiled from verified sources and official announcements to ensure accuracy for consumers seeking to take advantage of these appreciation programs.
Understanding Veterans Day Offers
Veterans Day promotions are typically available to individuals who can provide proof of military service. Acceptable forms of verification often include a military ID, a state-issued driver’s license with a veteran designation, a VA card, or other official documentation. It is important for veterans and active-duty members to carry appropriate identification when seeking these offers. Many businesses require in-person verification and do not extend offers through online orders or third-party delivery services. Additionally, while some promotions are available on Veterans Day itself (November 11th), others extend over a weekend or a multi-day period. Consumers are advised to confirm offer details with individual establishments, as participation and terms can vary by location.
Veterans Day Freebies and Deals in Columbia, South Carolina
For veterans and active military personnel in the Columbia, South Carolina area, several local businesses have announced specific Veterans Day promotions for 2024 and 2025. These offers provide free meals, discounts, and special events to show appreciation for military service.
Restaurant and Food Offers in Columbia
- Vicious Biscuit: This restaurant will offer a free entrée for all veterans and active-duty military personnel on Veterans Day. Additionally, a 20% discount is available for military members and first responders.
- La Isla Bonita: La Isla Bonita Restaurant is hosting a Veterans Day luncheon to honor Midlands veterans. The event is scheduled for November 11th, 2025, at 1701 Percival Road, Columbia, SC 29223. The luncheon will begin with special recognition of three Vietnam veterans.
- Pizza Inn: Pizza Inn is showing appreciation on Veterans Day with special buffet discounts. At some locations, free buffets are available for all active-duty military and veterans on November 11th.
Entertainment and Attractions in Columbia
- SC State Museum: The South Carolina State Museum announced that veterans and active-duty military will receive free general admission on Veterans Day. This offer allows exploration of four floors of museum exhibitions, including the recently opened changing exhibition, "Shared Sacrifice: SC in World War II," which explores the stories of South Carolina men and women who contributed to the war effort.
National Veterans Day Free Meal and Discount Offers
A wide array of national chains and restaurants offer free meals and discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel. The following list, compiled from various sources, details offers for Veterans Day 2024. Note that offers are subject to change and participation may vary by location. Verification of service is typically required.
Free Meals and Entrees
- Applebee’s: Military veterans and active-duty service members can eat free from the Applebee’s Veterans Day Menu at participating locations across the U.S. on November 11, 2024, with ID.
- Denny’s: Active, retired, and veteran military personnel with ID can enjoy a free Grand Slam from 5 a.m. to noon on November 11th at participating locations.
- Outback Steakhouse: Veterans receive a free Bloomin’ Onion and a choice of any Coke product or a 16 oz domestic draft with the purchase of an adult entrée. This offer is valid from November 9, 2024, through November 11, 2024.
- Kolache Factory: Veterans receive a free Kolache and any size fresh brewed coffee with a dine-in visit and valid ID on November 11, 2024, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que: Veterans receive a free choice of select meals and a $10 thank you card with dine-in and valid ID on November 11, 2024.
- O’Charley’s: Veterans receive a free meal from a special menu with valid ID on November 11, 2024, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Pilot Flying J: Veterans receive a free meal with an app, store visit, and verified proof of service via ID.me through November 11, 2024.
- Baker’s Square: Veterans who present a military ID on Veterans Day receive a complimentary “2-2-2” breakfast.
- Bandana’s Bar-B-Q: Veterans and active military get a free Budget Buster Meal on Veterans Day.
- Bar Louie: Participating locations offer a free craft burger for active duty or military veterans with proof of service.
- Biscuit Belly: Veterans eat free on Monday, November 11, with a choice of Bacon Egg & Cheese, Sausage Egg & Cheese, or Chicken Biscuit Sandwich and a hot drip coffee or fountain drink.
- Claim Jumper: A free meal from a select menu is available for veterans and active military on November 11th.
- Dunkin’ Donuts: Participating locations offer a free donut for active duty military and veterans, redeemable in-store with a military ID (one per person).
- Eureka!: Veterans and active duty members can receive any free burger on Veterans Day at participating locations.
- Farmer Boys: On November 11, 2024, a free Big Cheese burger is offered to all veterans and active-duty military personnel for dine-in only with proof of service (one per service member).
- Famous Dave’s: (Noted as "Stay tuned" for 2023) Historically offered a free Lunch Georgia Chopped Pork Sandwich & choice of side for military personnel.
- Fogo de Chão: (Noted as "Stay tuned" for 2023) Historically offered 50% off for military veterans and active-duty personnel’s Full Churrasco Experience.
Discounts and Special Offers
- Kona Grill: Veterans receive 50% off food with a dine-in visit and valid ID between November 8, 2024, and November 11, 2024.
- La Madeleine: Veterans receive a discount of 30% off with a military ID on November 11, 2024.
- Max & Erma’s: Veterans receive a 25% discount for the entire table with a dine-in visit and proof of service on November 11, 2024.
- Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub: Veterans receive a free lunch from the Veterans Day Menu with the purchase of any entrée and military ID on November 10, 2024, from opening through 5 p.m.
- Piccadilly: Veterans receive a discount of 10% off (ongoing offer).
- Qdoba: Veterans receive a discount of 50% off a regular entrée with military ID on November 11, 2024.
- Rainforest Cafe: Veterans receive 20% off their purchase.
- Aspen Creek Grill: On November 10-12 at 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., a $15 meal voucher is offered to all veterans and active duty military.
Free Admission and Entertainment Offers
Beyond restaurants, several attractions and entertainment venues offer free or discounted admission to veterans and their families.
Zoos and Museums
- Hill Aerospace Museum (UT): Veterans plus one guest receive free admission during Veterans Day weekend (November 9-11, 2024). Veterans also receive a 10% discount on any purchase at the Museum Store.
- Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium (WA): Veterans receive free general admission for Veterans Day weekend from November 9-11, 2024 (valid ID required). Veteran’s immediate family members receive 50% off single-day tickets.
- San Antonio Zoo (TX): Veterans receive free admission for Military Appreciation Month in November 2024 (valid ID required). Up to four additional tickets can be purchased for direct dependents at 50% off from November 1-30, 2024.
National Parks and Recreation Areas
- US National Parks: Everyone gets free admission into U.S. National Parks in honor of Veterans Day on November 11, 2024. Additionally, current U.S. Military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, as well as Reserve and National Guard members) and their dependents qualify for a free National Parks annual pass.
- US National Forest Sites: Everyone gets free admission into U.S. National Forest sites in honor of Veterans Day on November 11, 2024.
- US Army Corps of Engineers Recreation Areas: Free entrance is available on November 11, 2024.
Giveaways and Special Promotions
Some brands host giveaways or special promotions around Veterans Day.
- Tonal: Tonal offers a Veterans Day deal of $1,500 off for military personnel with a promo code, described as their biggest discount ever.
- MilitaryBridge Giveaway: A giveaway features "The Rec Spec," a rugged watch paying tribute to military precision. The giveaway runs from October 28 to November 12, 2024. To enter, one must be active military or a veteran.
Important Considerations for Veterans and Participants
When planning to use Veterans Day offers, it is crucial to consider the following points to ensure a smooth experience:
- Verification Requirements: Always carry acceptable proof of service. This may include a military ID, a VA card, a state-issued driver’s license with a veteran designation, or other official documentation. Some offers, like the one from Pilot Flying J, require verification through ID.me.
- Participating Locations: Not all locations of a national chain may participate in a promotion. It is highly recommended to call ahead or check the specific restaurant or venue’s website or social media for confirmation.
- Offer Timing: Pay close attention to the valid dates and times. Some offers are only available on Veterans Day (November 11th), while others span a weekend or multiple days. Dining hours may be restricted (e.g., lunch only, specific hours).
- Dine-In vs. To-Go: Many free meal offers are valid for dine-in only and cannot be used for takeout, delivery, or online orders. Verify the terms before visiting.
- Family and Guests: Some offers are exclusive to the veteran or active-duty member (e.g., free admission for one veteran plus a guest), while others may extend discounts to family members. Clarify the terms for your party.
- Combining Offers: Most Veterans Day discounts cannot be combined with other coupons, promotions, or discounts. Check the specific terms of the offer.
- Availability: Some offers are "while supplies last." Arriving earlier in the day or during the promotion period can increase the likelihood of availability.
- Updates and Changes: Business offers can be updated closer to the holiday. It is best to verify the current details directly with the business or through official company channels.
Conclusion
Veterans Day 2024 presents a significant opportunity for businesses across the United States, including in Columbia, South Carolina, to express gratitude to military veterans and active-duty personnel through free meals, discounts, and special access to attractions. From national restaurant chains offering complimentary entrées to local museums providing free admission, these promotions serve as a tangible thank you for service and sacrifice. Veterans and active military members should prepare by having valid identification ready, confirm offer details with specific establishments, and be aware of any restrictions regarding timing, location, and dine-in requirements. By leveraging these offers, veterans can enjoy a day of appreciation while exploring a variety of dining and entertainment options.