Minnesota Veterans Day 2024 Free Meals Discounts And Appreciation Offers For Service Members

Veterans Day 2024, observed on Monday, November 11th, presents numerous opportunities for Minnesota veterans and active-duty military personnel to receive free meals, discounts, and special appreciation offers. Across the state, restaurants, attractions, retailers, and organizations have organized events and promotions to honor service members. Most offers require proof of military service, which typically includes military ID, discharge papers (DD214), or being in uniform. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the available opportunities for Minnesota veterans to enjoy recognition and savings during the 2024 Veterans Day season.

Restaurant Free Meals and Discounts

Minnesota veterans and active-duty military personnel can enjoy complimentary meals at numerous establishments throughout the state on Veterans Day 2024. These restaurants demonstrate their appreciation by offering free food items or significant discounts to those who have served.

Applebee's provides one of the most generous offers, inviting veterans to select from eight free meal options as a token of gratitude. In addition to the complimentary meal, veterans receive a $5 Bounce Back Card valid for a future visit within a three-week redemption window. It's advisable to check with individual Applebee's locations, as local guidelines and mandates may affect participation.

Hy-Vee supermarkets are extending their appreciation through a unique combination of offers. Veterans and active-duty military members can enjoy a free buffet-style breakfast on Veterans Day. Additionally, they receive 15% off grocery purchases when they present their military ID at checkout. This dual offer provides both immediate gratification and ongoing savings.

Mason Jar Kitchen in Eagan has prepared an impressive Veterans Day promotion with 21 different entree choices available at no cost to veterans and service members. This extensive menu selection ensures that each veteran can find a meal that suits their preferences.

While not all restaurant offers are explicitly listed as Minnesota-specific, several chains with Minnesota locations are known to participate in Veterans Day free meal programs nationally. These typically include free entrees, appetizers, or other menu items, though specific offerings and participation may vary by location.

Attraction and Entertainment Offers

Minnesota's attractions and entertainment venues are showing their appreciation for veterans through discounted and complimentary admissions during Veterans Day 2024.

The Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley is offering one of the most significant attraction discounts. On November 11th, veterans and active military personnel receive free admission and parking. Their immediate family members (up to six people total) receive 50% off admission. The zoo extends this appreciation through the end of November, offering 50% off admission for veterans, active military personnel, and their immediate family members (up to six people total) from November 12 through November 30. While the discounted admission applies during this extended period, it's worth noting that the special parking offer is only available on November 11th.

The Twin City Model Railroad Museum in St. Paul is participating in Veterans Day recognition by offering free admission to veterans on November 11th. This specialized attraction provides a unique experience for those interested in model railroads and local history.

Beyond Minnesota-specific venues, several national attractions with locations in other states offer Veterans Day discounts that may be of interest to Minnesota veterans planning travel. These include the 911 Memorial & Museum in New York City, which offers free admission to veterans during a five-day "Salute to Service" from November 7-11, with half-price admission for up to three family members.

The Cincinnati Zoo, Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia, Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Knott's Berry Farm in California, and Louisville Zoo in Kentucky all offer special admission rates for veterans on or around Veterans Day. While these require travel, they represent significant savings for Minnesota veterans planning to visit these destinations.

Retail and Service Discounts

Veterans and active-duty military personnel in Minnesota can take advantage of various retail discounts and service specials during Veterans Day 2024.

Red Roof Inn is offering a 15% discount on room rates at all locations nationwide for government employees, military personnel, veterans, and retirees. This accommodation discount can be particularly valuable for veterans planning travel around Veterans Day or at any time throughout the year.

For automotive needs, several service providers offer special Veterans Day promotions:

• Grace for Vets Car Wash Program provides free car washes at thousands of locations nationwide, including numerous Minnesota locations. Veterans can find participating locations through the Grace for Vets website.
• Meineke typically offers free oil changes at select locations on Veterans Day.
• Jiffy Lube usually provides a 50% discount on oil changes on Veterans Day, along with a 15% military discount available year-round (though specifics may vary by location).
• Valvoline Instant Oil Change typically offers free oil changes on Veterans Day, with a 15% military discount available year-round.

Academy Sports + Outdoors is offering a 10% discount on entire purchases for active-duty service members and veterans from October 19 to November 11, both online and in-store. This discount can be combined with other available coupons for additional savings.

Events and Commemorations

Beyond commercial offers, Minnesota is hosting several official Veterans Day events and ceremonies to honor service members:

The State of Minnesota is holding its official Veterans Day event at 10 a.m. on November 11th at the Minnesota National Guard Ben Franklin Readiness Center in Arden Hills. The event includes a breakfast and social period beginning at 8:30 a.m., providing an opportunity for veterans to connect and be recognized.

Central Park in Maple Grove will host a Veterans Day event organized by the city, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, and the Commander of the Osseo-Maple Grove American Legion. This community gathering offers another opportunity for veterans to be honored and for the public to show appreciation.

Stillwater Veterans Memorial will host a ceremony at 11:30 a.m. on November 11th, specifically honoring St. Croix Valley-area veterans. This event provides a solemn setting for remembrance and recognition.

The Pioneers and Soldiers Cemetery in Minneapolis, the city's oldest cemetery, will be open to the public until 3:30 p.m. on Veterans Day. An accompanying exhibit about the cemetery is available at the Hennepin History Museum, offering historical context and additional opportunities for reflection and learning.

Eligibility and Participation Requirements

To participate in most Veterans Day offers, veterans and active-duty military personnel need to provide proof of service. Accepted forms of proof typically include:

• Military ID
• Discharge papers (DD214)
• Being in uniform

The specific documentation required may vary by establishment, so it's advisable to carry multiple forms of verification when planning to take advantage of multiple offers.

Some offers, particularly at restaurants, may be valid only on Veterans Day (November 11th), while others may have extended validity periods. For example, the Minnesota Zoo's discount extends through the end of November, while many restaurant offers are limited to the specific day.

Participation in certain offers may also be restricted to dine-in service or require advance notification. For instance, some restaurants may require calling ahead to verify participation in their Veterans Day program.

It's important to note that while many offers are specifically for veterans and active-duty military, some extend to family members or are available to the general public. For example, National Parks offer free admission to everyone on Veterans Day, not just military personnel.

Conclusion

Veterans Day 2024 provides numerous opportunities for Minnesota's veterans and active-duty military personnel to receive recognition and appreciation through free meals, discounts, and special offers. From complimentary breakfasts at Hy-Vee and diverse meal options at Mason Jar Kitchen to free zoo admission and discounted oil changes, service members have multiple ways to enjoy the holiday.

The variety of offerings spans restaurants, attractions, retail establishments, and service providers, ensuring that veterans can find opportunities that align with their interests and needs. Additionally, the official ceremonies and events across Minnesota provide meaningful opportunities for commemoration and community connection.

When planning to take advantage of these offers, veterans should remember to bring appropriate documentation proving their service status, verify participation requirements with individual establishments, and note any specific time restrictions or limitations. By doing so, they can fully enjoy the tokens of appreciation offered to honor their service and sacrifice.

Sources

1. Twin Cities Frugal Mom: Veterans Day Freebies & Deals 2024
2. KSTP News: Veterans Day 2024 Deals and Events
3. MySavings: Veterans Day Freebies
4. VA Claims Insider: Best Veterans Day Freebies