First Responder Appreciation Freebies Discounts And Perks On National First Responders Day

U.S. first responders, including firefighters, police officers, paramedics, EMTs, and emergency dispatchers, are honored with a variety of freebies and discounts through National First Responders Day, an annual celebration held on October 28. These offers are designed to show gratitude to those who serve and protect communities in times of crisis. Many national and local businesses participate in the event by offering complimentary meals, beverages, clothing discounts, and more. This article provides a detailed overview of the current and predicted offerings in 2026, eligibility requirements, specific brand promotions, and how first responders can access these perks.

Key offerings include free food and entrées at chain restaurants such as Applebee’s, Ford’s Garage, and Krispy Kreme. Retail brands like Academy Sports + Outdoors, Asics, and Dockers also provide year-round and event-specific discounts for first responders. Additionally, digital verification platforms such as SheerID, ID.me, and VerifyPass help streamline access to online discounts by confirming first responder status.

Free Food and Beverage Offers

National First Responders Day features a wide range of free and discounted meals at restaurants across the U.S. These dining promotions are typically date-specific and require valid identification to redeem, emphasizing in-person visits at participating locations.

At Applebee’s, first responders receive 15% off dine-in entrees from October 27 to November 2 during a limited promotional window. On October 28 specifically, they can choose a free Mozzarella Sticks appetizer or a Brownie Bite dessert when dining in. For 2026, Applebee’s is expected to extend a similar promotion, including discounted weeks and day-specific free offerings.

Ford’s Garage honors first responders with a 10% discount on food and a complimentary American Standard Burger on October 28, 2026. The restaurant may also offer meal discounts in other years, but 2026 is anticipated to feature a repeat of the burger promotion as a highlight of the event.

Krispy Kreme rewards first responders with a free doughnut and brewed coffee on October 28 when they present a valid ID or badge at participating stores. The offer is available at drive-thru locations as well, making it accessible to those in uniform or with identification.

Hooters provides a 10-for-10 buy-one-get-one-free wing deal to first responders in uniform or with a valid ID. The offer is typically limited to dine-in only and is expected to return in 2026 as part of the annual celebration.

TGI Fridays is projected to offer free meals from its special menu to first responders on October 28, 2026, replicating a popular event from previous years. Ruby Tuesday is also anticipated to return with a free Garden Bar entree or add-on on First Responders Day, with a specific code to redeem the offer.

Dave & Buster’s includes a 15% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages as a regular perk for first responders, and this discount is expected to remain consistent on National First Responders Day in 2026 and beyond.

Potbelly offers free cookies or fountain drinks with the purchase of an entrée on October 28, available only at in-store locations. The free cookie can include new seasonal variations, such as the Apple Caramel Cookie, and the offer depends on local store participation.

Firehouse Subs offers a free Medium Hook & Ladder sub for Rewards Members who verify their first responder status on ID.me, but this freebee comes with the condition of purchasing another Medium Hook & Ladder sub.

Retail and Fashion Discounts

In addition to food freebies, first responders can access special retail promotions that include clothing, accessories, and household items. These discounts are available at well-known brands and often require in-person or online verification.

Academy Sports + Outdoors provides a 10% season-long discount for first responders, active service members, and veterans. From October 19 to November 11 in 2026, first responders will likely receive this discount both in-store and online, making it a consistent annual offering.

Asics offers up to 30% off on qualifying full-priced clothing and accessories, and 25% off on footwear for first responders. The brand’s website may list specific offers around National First Responders Day, but the standard discount is available year-round.

Dockers includes a 25% discount on apparel for first responders, with the offer available both in-store and online. The discount is not exclusive to National First Responders Day but may receive special highlighting on October 28.

Levi’s provides a standard 10% off merchandise to first responders and medical professionals. While not tied to any specific date, the offer is valid in-store and online for any qualifying purchase.

J. Crew and J. Crew Factory both extend year-round 15% discounts to first responders, with J. Crew Factory offering an extra 15% off in some locations. Verification through a valid ID may be required, and these discounts apply to both apparel and accessories.

Boden, a U.S.-based clothing brand, offers 20% off orders for first responders with free shipping on purchases over $49. The discount is available all year long and does not require a promotional code.

Entertainment and Travel Perks

First responders can also enjoy special entertainment and travel offers, which may include free or discounted admissions to theme parks, amusement centers, and vacation packages. These benefits are designed to provide a break from duty and encourage relaxation.

SeaWorld, located in Orlando, Florida, may offer a free one-day admission ticket via email to first responders during National First Responders Day. This perk is likely to include its sister parks, such as Aquatica Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Adventure Island. Verification through sites like ID.me may be required to access this free admission.

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews, a chain based in Fargo, North Dakota, offers a 20% discount on all meals for first responders daily, not just on October 28. This offer applies to both dine-in and in-store purchases and includes a wide range of menu items, from burgers to beer.

Beverage and Convenience Store Freebies

First responders working long shifts often appreciate small but meaningful perks, such as free beverages at convenience stores and fast-food outlets. These offers are typically redeemed through loyalty programs or direct in-store redemption.

RaceTrac provides RaceTrac Rewards members with the opportunity to receive a free Red Bull by verifying employment with ID.me. Additionally, first responders can enjoy free coffee, fountain drinks, or frozen beverages every day. The free Red Bull promotion is not exclusive to National First Responders Day but is likely to include it as a highlighted offer.

TCBY, a frozen yogurt chain, allows first responders with a valid ID to receive a 6-ounce frozen yogurt on National First Responders Day. The free yogurt is available at participating locations and cannot be combined with other promotions.

Verification and Eligibility

Many first responders must verify their status through specific platforms before accessing online discounts. Three primary verification services commonly used are SheerID, ID.me, and VerifyPass.

ID.me is a widely used digital verification platform that allows users to confirm their first responder status when accessing offers for Firehouse Subs, RaceTrac, and other participating brands. The site requires first responders to upload a valid ID and may ask for employment verification information.

SheerID offers a similar service that confirms first responder eligibility for online-only discounts at various retailers and brands. Verification can take only a few minutes, but access to the platform may be necessary via a brand’s website.

VerifyPass may also be used for similar verification purposes, particularly for offers that apply to medical professionals and essential personnel. First responders who do not have digital verification IDs can still access in-store freebies by showing a valid badge or ID at participating business locations.

Predicted 2026 Offers

Although the full details of National First Responders Day 2026 are yet to be confirmed, some promotional offers are expected to return with similar terms as previous years.

Applebee’s is likely to extend a 15% discount on entrees for first responders throughout the week of October 27–November 2 and offer a free appetizer or dessert on October 28, directly following past trends.

Ruby Tuesday is projected to return with a free Garden Bar entree or add-on on October 28, again using the code FIRST2025 to redeem the offer. TGI Fridays is also expected to provide a free meal from a special menu to those dining in on First Responders Day.

Outback Steakhouse remains a consistent supporter by offering a 10% discount on food for first responders, likely expanding its annual event on October 28 in 2026. Ford’s Garage is also expected to provide a free American Standard Burger or a discount-based entree on First Responders Day.

Hooters’ 10-for-10 BOGO wings deal is likely to return with a limited-time offer for in-person orders. Dave & Buster’s, known for its year-round first responder perks, is expected to continue its 15% off deal on National First Responders Day as well.

Conclusion

National First Responders Day is a key opportunity for businesses to appreciate the service and dedication of those who protect and serve American communities. The event includes a range of free meals, beverages, and retail discounts offered by national and local brands. First responders can access these offers by presenting a valid ID in person or through digital verification platforms like ID.me, SheerID, or VerifyPass.

Key restaurant promotions include complimentary food items from Applebee’s, Ford’s Garage, and Hooters, while retail brands extend discounts on clothing, accessories, and household goods throughout the year. Entertainment and convenience benefits, such as free park admissions, frozen yogurt, and beverages, further expand the list of perks available to eligible first responders.

By planning in advance and visiting participating locations on October 28, first responders can maximize the variety of freebies and discounts offered on National First Responders Day, an event that continues to evolve with each passing year.

Sources

1. National First Responders Day Freebies and Deals
2. First Responder Freebies and Discounts
3. National First Responders Day 2023 Offers