Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, is a federal holiday in the United States dedicated to honoring all individuals who have served in the U.S. military. In 2025, Veterans Day falls on Tuesday, November 11. Across Indiana and the nation, numerous businesses, particularly in the food and beverage sector, offer complimentary meals, discounts, and special deals as a token of gratitude for veterans and active-duty military personnel. This article compiles a detailed overview of the freebies and deals available in Indiana for Veterans Day 2025, based on verified reports and official announcements. The information is intended to assist veterans, active service members, and their families in accessing these offers, which typically require proof of military service for redemption.
Understanding Veterans Day Operations and Logistics in Indiana
Before exploring specific restaurant offers, it is important to note the operational status of various services and businesses on Veterans Day, as this can affect access to deals. Veterans Day is a federal holiday, which impacts government offices, postal services, and some private businesses.
- Government Offices and Mail Services: All U.S. post offices will be closed on November 11, 2025, and mail delivery will be suspended for the day. In Indiana, all branches of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will also be closed in observance of the holiday. These branches will resume regular business hours on Wednesday, November 12. Residents are advised to plan any necessary transactions, such as banking or visiting the BMV, for Monday, November 10, if possible.
- Package Delivery Services: UPS pickup and delivery services are scheduled to be available on Tuesday, November 11. However, UPS Ground Saver and UPS Mail Innovations deliveries will require one additional business day in transit due to the federal holiday. UPS Store locations will remain open.
- Local Services: For residents in Marion County and the surrounding Indianapolis area, trash pickup services are expected to operate on a normal schedule on Veterans Day.
Veterans Day Meal Freebies and Deals in Indiana
A wide variety of restaurants and food establishments in Indiana offer free meals or significant discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel on Veterans Day. Most of these offers are valid for dine-in service only on November 11, 2025, and require valid proof of military service, such as a military ID, VA card, or discharge papers.
National Chain Restaurants
Several major national restaurant chains have announced Veterans Day deals for 2025. It is important to note that while these chains have nationwide policies, participation may vary by location. It is always advisable to contact your local restaurant to confirm participation before visiting.
- Applebee’s: Applebee’s is offering a complimentary full-size entrée from an exclusive Veterans Day menu to all active-duty military, veterans, reserves, and National Guard members who dine in-restaurant. The entrée options include a 6 oz. Top Sirloin, Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, Chicken Tenders Platter, Double Crunch Shrimp, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Oriental Chicken Salad, and Three-Cheese Chicken Penne. Additionally, guests will receive a $5 “Bounce Back Card” for a future visit. A valid military ID is required for this offer.
- Another Broken Egg Cafe: This restaurant is providing a free Patriot French Toast Combo and coffee at participating locations. The offer is valid for dine-in only and requires a valid military ID.
- Aspen Creek Grill: Veterans and active-duty military members can receive a free meal voucher worth $15. These vouchers will be distributed from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on November 11.
- Bubba’s 33: Bubba’s 33 offers a free meal to all veterans, including active, retired, or former U.S. military personnel, on Veterans Day. A valid military ID or proof of service is required.
- Buffalo Wild Wings: Buffalo Wild Wings offers a free entrée to veterans and active-duty military members. The offer is valid for dine-in only at participating locations.
- City BBQ: City BBQ provides a complimentary meal to all veterans and active service members with a valid ID.
- Fazoli’s: For dine-in service only, Fazoli’s is offering a free Spaghetti with Marinara or Meat Sauce. Customers must use the code VET25 when ordering and present a valid military ID.
- Firebirds Wood Fired Grill: Firebirds honors active military and veterans with a complimentary lunch or dinner when dining with a guest on November 11. The offer is for dine-in only.
- Freddy’s Custard & Steakburgers: On Veterans Day, veterans and active military personnel can receive a card for a free combo meal. This card can be redeemed for any combo meal through December 31, 2025. No purchase is necessary to receive the card.
- Golden Corral: As part of its 25th anniversary of Military Appreciation Night, Golden Corral is offering a free buffet and beverage to all active-duty military personnel and veterans. The offer is valid from 4 p.m. to close on November 11 for dine-in service only. A valid military ID is required, and the offer is not extended to family members or other guests.
- Hacienda Mexican Restaurants: Hacienda provides a free meal to veterans and active-duty military members. A valid military ID is required for this dine-in offer.
- McDonald’s: Select McDonald’s locations will offer free breakfast meals to veterans and active-duty military personnel on Veterans Day. Participation and specific menu items may vary by location.
- Texas Roadhouse: Texas Roadhouse continues its tradition of offering free meals to veterans and active service members. A valid military ID is required for this dine-in offer.
- Wings Etc. Grill & Pub: This establishment offers a free entrée to veterans and active military members at participating locations on Veterans Day.
Fast-Food and Coffee Chains
In addition to full-service restaurants, several fast-food and coffee chains offer smaller complimentary items to veterans.
- Dunkin’: Veterans can receive a free donut at participating Dunkin’ locations. Some locations may offer additional items.
- Einstein Bros. Bagels: Veterans and active-duty military can get a free hot or iced coffee of any size on November 11.
- Starbucks: Starbucks offers a free coffee or tea to veterans and military personnel, with a limit of one per person.
- Taco Bell: A free Beefy 5-Layer Burrito is available for veterans with a valid military ID.
- Wendy’s: Wendy’s provides a free breakfast combo or coffee to veterans. Participation may vary by location.
Local and Regional Establishments
Beyond national chains, many local diners, cafes, and family-owned restaurants in Indiana offer Veterans Day freebies or discounts. These establishments often provide a more community-oriented experience. While specific local deals are not detailed in the provided sources, it is noted that many family-owned diners offer discounts or free meals. Consumers are encouraged to check local community websites or news sources for regional deals in their specific Indiana city or town.
Non-Food Freebies and Deals
While the majority of Veterans Day offers focus on meals, some businesses provide free products or services.
- Great Clips: Great Clips is offering free haircuts to veterans and active military members. A unique aspect of this offer is that non-military customers can also participate by paying for a haircut and receiving a free haircut card to give to a veteran.
- Emagine Theatres: Emagine Theatres is offering free admission to veterans and active military personnel. Each eligible person will receive two tickets to see a movie of their choice on November 11, 2025.
- Kroger: The Kroger grocery chain is providing a 10% discount to active-duty and veteran military service members for both in-store and pick-up shopping.
Important Considerations for Redeeming Offers
To ensure a smooth experience when redeeming Veterans Day freebies, veterans and active-duty military members should keep the following points in mind:
- Proof of Service: The vast majority of offers require some form of valid military identification. Acceptable documents typically include a U.S. Military ID card, a Veterans Affairs (VA) card, a state-issued driver’s license with a veteran designation, or official discharge papers (DD214). It is recommended to carry one of these documents.
- Dine-In Requirements: Many restaurant offers are valid for dine-in service only and may not be available for takeout or delivery. Always check the specific terms of the offer.
- Participation Varies: Not all locations of a national chain may participate in Veterans Day promotions. It is advisable to call the local establishment ahead of time to confirm their participation and any specific requirements.
- Family and Guests: Some offers, such as the Golden Corral buffet, are exclusively for veterans and active-duty military personnel and do not extend to family members or guests. Other offers, like the Firebirds Wood Fired Grill deal, require the veteran to dine with a guest.
- Timing: Offers are typically valid only on Veterans Day, November 11, unless otherwise specified. Some offers, like the Freddy’s card, have a redemption window that extends beyond the holiday.
Conclusion
Veterans Day 2025 in Indiana presents a wide array of freebies and deals as a gesture of thanks to those who have served in the U.S. military. The offerings are predominantly centered around complimentary meals at national and local restaurants, with additional deals available for haircuts, movie tickets, and grocery discounts. To successfully access these offers, veterans and active-duty personnel should be prepared with valid proof of military service and should verify the details and participation of specific locations in advance. By planning ahead and understanding the common requirements, service members can fully benefit from the appreciation shown by businesses across Indiana on this federal holiday.