Veterans Day Freebies And Discounts A Practical Guide To Nationwide Offers For Us Service Members

Introduction

Every year on Nov. 11, a broad coalition of national and regional restaurants, food retailers, and select services recognize U.S. service members by offering free meals, individual items, or discounted menus. While offerings vary by brand, location, and channel (dine-in, online, to-go), the consistent thread is straightforward: verification of military service, a short redemption window on the day itself, and an emphasis on convenience. This guide synthesizes nationwide offers and regional programs highlighted in recent coverage, with a focus on practical details—what to expect, how to redeem, and what proof is required—on or around Veterans Day.

The landscape includes large national chains such as Applebee’s, Bob Evans, Buffalo Wild Wings, Chili’s, Chipotle, Cracker Barrel, Hooters, IHOP, Longhorn Steakhouse, Olive Garden, Outback Steakhouse, Red Lobster, Ruby Tuesday, Sheetz, Shoney’s, Starbucks, and TGI Fridays, alongside regional and local operators like Gold Star Chili, Granite City, Hard Rock Café, Huddle House, In-N-Out Burger, Village Inn, Wienerschnitzel, and Wings and Rings. Retailers and service providers sometimes extend discounts or free services, and local veteran-support programs—Veterans Table in Charleston, West Virginia, for example—provide essential food assistance outside of single-day promotions. Below is a comprehensive, step-by-step overview built from the listed sources.

How Free Offers Are Structured and Redeemed

Most Veterans Day offers fall into a few clear patterns:

• Free meal or appetizer from a special menu, often restricted to dine-in and to a specific time window.
• Single free item or combo (e.g., a free slice of cake, a small order of wings, or a specific entrée), sometimes available for takeout or mobile order.
• Buy-one-get-one deals for specific dayparts (Chipotle’s afternoon-to-close window is one example).
• A free breakfast or pancake stack from early morning to early evening (IHOP’s Red, White and Blue pancakes are a notable example).

Verification usually requires proof of service. In practice, that means presenting a valid military ID or, in some cases, an honorable discharge document. Some offers also extend to reservists, the National Guard, and military spouses. Many participating locations are listed as dine-in only, while others allow carryout or drive-thru. Several brands note restrictions for delivery and specify whether online ordering is supported, sometimes with a promo code.

Time-of-day limitations are common. Some offers run for breakfast hours (e.g., Wendy’s small breakfast combo, Village Inn’s all-day 2-2-2 Breakfast), others for lunch (TGI Fridays’ 11 a.m.–2 p.m. free lunch window), and still others for the entire day. Certain chains permit redemption through a voucher or card that can be used later, such as Freddy’s Combo meal cards that are valid through Dec. 31, 2025.

Below, the guide outlines major national chains and then broader participation, followed by regional and local programs, plus tips and eligibility requirements.

Major National Restaurant Chains Offering Free Meals or Items

The following brands provide widely publicized free meals or free items for veterans, active-duty military, and in some cases reservists, National Guard, and spouses. Details reflect the latest published information and can vary by location, so it is prudent to confirm locally.

Detailed Chain Details

• Applebee’s: Free meal from a special menu. Typically dine-in; check local locations for time-of-day limits. Proof of service recommended.
• Bob Evans: Free meal from a select menu. Dine-in; check specific location details. Proof of service recommended.
• Buffalo Wild Wings: Free small order of traditional or boneless wings, with a side of fries. May be limited to dine-in; check for carryout options. Proof of service recommended.
• Chili’s: Free meal from a special menu. Limited to dine-in; verify time window and menu specifics. Proof of service recommended.
• Chipotle: Buy-one-get-one for active duty, Reserves, National Guard, veterans and spouses from 3 p.m. to closing. Valid in participating locations; confirm whether for dine-in, online, or takeout. Proof of service recommended.
• Cracker Barrel: Free slice of double chocolate fudge cake. Dine-in or carryout availability can vary; confirm with your local store. Proof of service recommended.
• Hooters: Free meal from a select menu. Typically dine-in; check time window and menu details. Proof of service recommended.
• IHOP: Free Red, White and Blue pancakes from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Dine-in only. Proof of service recommended.
• Longhorn Steakhouse: Free appetizer or dessert and 10 percent off the party’s meal. Dine-in; verify specifics. Proof of service recommended.
• Olive Garden: Free entrée. Dine-in or carryout availability may vary by location; confirm locally. Proof of service recommended.
• Outback Steakhouse: Free Bloomin’ Onion and beverage, plus 15 percent off meals through Dec. 31. Dine-in; verify the special menu and time window. Proof of service recommended.
• Red Lobster: Free appetizer or dessert. Dine-in; check local details. Proof of service recommended.
• Ruby Tuesday: Free appetizer. Dine-in; check time-of-day and location restrictions. Proof of service recommended.
• Sheetz: Free 6-inch turkey sub, regular-size fountain drink, and car wash. Dine-in and carryout options may be available; confirm whether car wash services apply on the day. Proof of service recommended.
• Shoney’s: Free “All-American Burger.” Dine-in; verify local participation and time window. Proof of service recommended.
• Starbucks: Free tall (12 oz.) hot or iced coffee for veterans, active-duty military, reservists, and military spouses on Nov. 11. Redemption via in-store, mobile app, or online ordering is noted; use code FREECOFFEE for app or online. No purchase required for the coffee. Proof of service recommended.
• TGI Fridays: Free lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dine-in only; some sources indicate an extended window elsewhere; confirm with local stores. Proof of service recommended.

Full List of Participating Chains and Details

The following is a consolidated list across national and regional operators, organized with common details such as time windows, dine-in versus carryout, and any specified redemption codes.

• Einstein Bros. Bagels: Free hot or iced coffee (any size) for veterans and active-duty military on Nov. 11. Available in-bakery, via mobile app, or online using code FREECOFFEE. No purchase required. Proof of service recommended.
• Famous Dave’s: Free Georgia Chopped Pork Sandwich lunch with choice of side on Nov. 11. For online orders, use code VETERAN25 at checkout. Dine-in and online options; verify in-store availability and time. Proof of service recommended.
• Fazoli’s: Free Spaghetti with Marinara or Meat Sauce when dining in on Nov. 11. Code VET25 required; must present valid Military ID or wear a uniform. Dine-in only. Proof of service required.
• Firehouse Subs: On Nov. 11, active-duty and veterans can get any size sub and receive a second sub free with valid military ID. Dine-in, carryout, or drive-thru may apply; confirm at participating locations. Proof of service required.
• Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers: Veterans and active military who visit on Nov. 11 receive a free Freddy’s Combo meal card. No purchase necessary. Cards may be redeemed through Dec. 31, 2025. Dine-in, to-go, and online ordering typically supported; check local participation. Proof of service recommended.
• Friendly’s: Free burger and a beverage on Nov. 11. Available in-restaurant only. Must show military ID or honorable discharge document to receive the offer. Proof of service required.
• Gold Star Chili: Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary meal of their choice on Nov. 11 (up to $12 off with proof of service). Dine-in, carry out, or drive-thru. Proof of service recommended.
• Granite City: Free entrée from a special menu for veterans and choice of non-alcoholic beverage, available 11 a.m.–4 p.m. for dine-in, to-go, and online ordering. Not valid for delivery. If ordering online, use code VETERANS25. Proof of service recommended.
• Hard Rock Café: Free Legendary Steak Burger for veterans and active-duty military on Nov. 11. Dine-in; verify local participation. Proof of service recommended.
• Huddle House: Free MVP breakfast platter for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in only. Proof of service recommended.
• Huey Magoo’s: Free meal for one for veterans and active-duty military when a companion buys a meal for one and two beverages. Dine-in; confirm details and time window. Proof of service recommended.
• Hy-Vee Supermarkets: Free breakfast buffet for veterans and active-duty military. Time window may vary by location; confirm locally. Proof of service recommended.
• In-N-Out Burger (Western states): Free burger, fries, and drink for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in; verify time window and location coverage. Proof of service recommended.
• Krispy Kreme: Free doughnut and coffee for veterans on Nov. 11. Dine-in or carryout availability may vary; confirm locally. Proof of service recommended.
• Longhorn Steakhouse: Free appetizer or dessert and 10 percent off the party’s meal. Dine-in; verify details. Proof of service recommended.
• Outback Steakhouse: Free Bloomin’ Onion and beverage, plus 15 percent off meals through Dec. 31. Dine-in; verify menu specifics. Proof of service recommended.
• Sheetz: Free 6-inch turkey sub, regular-size fountain drink, and car wash. Dine-in and carryout options may be available; confirm car wash redemption. Proof of service recommended.
• Sonny’s BBQ (Southeast): Free pork big deal (sandwich, side, drink) for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in; verify local participation. Proof of service recommended.
• Sullivan’s Steakhouse: Free Sullivan’s Signature Angus Burger with fries for veterans and active-duty service members on Nov. 11. Dine-in; verify local availability and time. Proof of service recommended.
• Taco John’s (Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin): Veterans Day special using promo code on the app. Dine-in, carryout, or drive-thru may apply; confirm via app. Proof of service recommended.
• TCBY: First 6-ounce frozen yogurt free for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in and carryout may be supported; confirm locally. Proof of service recommended.
• Texas Roadhouse: Free meal from a selected menu, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., at participating locations. Dine-in only. Proof of service recommended.
• Teriyaki Madness: Free bowl of choice for veterans and active-duty heroes on Nov. 11. Dine-in or carryout may be supported; confirm locally. Proof of service recommended.
• Thirsty Lion (Arizona, Colorado, Oregon, Texas): Veterans and active-duty military eat for free. Dine-in; verify time window and location. Proof of service recommended.
• Torchy’s Tacos: Free taco and non-alcoholic beverage with valid military ID. Dine-in or carryout may be supported; verify locally. Proof of service required.
• Twin Peaks: Free meal on Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dine-in; verify participation. Proof of service recommended.
• Village Inn (national chain): All day on Nov. 11, free 2-2-2 Breakfast (2 eggs any style, 2 bacon strips or sausage links, 2 pancakes). If ordering online, use code VETERANS25 to redeem. Dine-in, to-go, and online ordering typically supported; check local participation. Proof of service recommended.
• Wendy’s: Free small breakfast combo, no purchase necessary, for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in; confirm time window and local availability. Proof of service recommended.
• White Castle: Free individual combo meal or breakfast combo meal on Nov. 11. Dine-in or carryout may be supported; confirm locally. Proof of service recommended.
• Wienerschnitzel: Free Original Chili Dog, small fries, and small soda for veterans and active-duty military in uniform or with a military ID at participating locations nationwide. Dine-in, carryout, or drive-thru may be supported; verify locally. Proof of service required.
• Wings and Rings (national chain): Free lunch all day for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in only. Proof of service recommended.
• Ziggi’s Coffee: Free 16-ounce drink for veterans at all locations. Dine-in or carryout may be supported; confirm locally. Proof of service recommended.

Regional and Local Programs in Select Markets

In addition to national chains, several regional operators and local organizations provide free meals or discounts on or around Veterans Day. The following markets and operators are highlighted:

• Food City (Virginia, Kentucky): Veterans and active military receive a free meal from the deli hot bar, with a price limit. Dine-in; verify specific location details. Proof of service recommended.
• Sonny’s BBQ (Southeast): Free pork big deal (sandwich, side, drink) for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in; verify local participation. Proof of service recommended.
• TCBY: First 6-ounce frozen yogurt free for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in; confirm local availability. Proof of service recommended.
• Texas Roadhouse: Free meal from a selected menu, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., at participating locations. Dine-in only. Proof of service recommended.
• Thirsty Lion (Arizona, Colorado, Oregon, Texas): Veterans and active-duty military eat for free. Dine-in; verify time window and location. Proof of service recommended.
• Tuscan Brands restaurants: Veterans eat free from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Dine-in; verify local participation. Proof of service recommended.
• Uno’s Pizzeria & Grill: Free entrée for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in only. Proof of service recommended.
• Wienerschnitzel (Southwest, Northwest, Midwest): Free Original Chili Dog, small fries, small soda for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in, carryout, or drive-thru may be supported; verify with location. Proof of service required.
• Wings and Rings (national chain): Free lunch all day for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in only. Proof of service recommended.
• Ziggi’s Coffee: Free 16-ounce drink for veterans at all locations. Dine-in or carryout may be supported; confirm locally. Proof of service recommended.

Local veterans’ organizations, American Legion and VFW posts, churches, Elks lodges, and community nonprofits also host special breakfasts, lunches, and dinners on and around Veterans Day, often with free meals for veterans. Local news listings are typically the best way to discover these events and times.

Non-Restaurant Perks and Services

Beyond dining, several service providers and retail establishments offer free services or discounts for veterans and active-duty military on or around Veterans Day. These include car wash services, lodging, and year-round retail discounts.

• Waters Car Wash and Russell Speeder’s Car Wash: Free car washes to all veterans and active-duty military on Nov. 11. Dine-in and service redemption may be in-person only; confirm local participation. Proof of service recommended.
• B&Bs for Vets: The Association of Lodging Professionals lists B&Bs that offer a free room on Nov. 10 and 11 to veterans and active-duty military, so they can attend Veterans Day observances. Preference is given to those who haven’t participated before. All 50 states are covered; find details via the listed source. Reservations and proof of service typically required.
• Year-round retail discounts: Many retailers, including Target, Home Depot, and Lowe’s, provide ongoing military discounts. These are separate from Veterans Day offers and can be redeemed throughout the year, typically with verification of service.

Local Resource: Veteran’s Table in Charleston, WV

Veterans Table in Charleston, West Virginia, serves veterans by providing essential food assistance through monthly food boxes filled with nutritious and wholesome options. The program is designed to ensure that every veteran, without income restrictions, receives the support they deserve. Veterans can register to access these emergency food supplies at the nearest distribution site, with the goal of making it easier to maintain health and wellbeing. While separate from single-day Veterans Day free meals, such local programs extend support beyond a single observance, offering ongoing assistance for veterans in the community.

How to Prepare for Redemption

Planning ahead helps ensure smooth redemption on Veterans Day. A practical approach includes:

• Check your local participating locations directly, as availability and time-of-day windows vary.
• Prepare proof of service (e.g., military ID, veteran card, or honorable discharge document) in advance.
• Review whether the offer applies to dine-in, carryout, drive-thru, or online ordering; several brands note delivery exclusions.
• Save relevant app promo codes ahead of time when they are provided (e.g., FREECOFFEE, VET25, VETERAN25, VETERAN25). The availability of codes may differ by brand or location.
• Confirm whether family members or spouses are included; many offers extend to spouses and certain categories of service members, but not always.
• Be aware of daypart-specific limits (e.g., free lunch windows, breakfast only, or an all-day free meal) and plan arrival times accordingly.
• Ask whether vouchers or cards issued on Veterans Day can be redeemed later; some brands explicitly allow redemption through a later date (e.g., through Dec. 31, 2025).

Common Eligibility and Proof Requirements

Across brands, the following patterns are common:

• Validation of service is generally required, using a valid military ID or an honorable discharge document.
• Offers often include veterans, active-duty military, reservists, the National Guard, and sometimes military spouses. Coverage can vary by brand and location, so local verification is essential.
• Time-of-day limits are common; some brands confine free items to breakfast or lunch windows.
• Dine-in restrictions apply to several offers; others may allow carryout, drive-thru, or online ordering. Delivery is frequently excluded.
• Codes may be needed for online or app redemption (e.g., VETERANS25, VETERAN25, VET25, FREECOFFEE). Availability differs by brand and location.

Practical Guidance for Finding and Using Offers

The most comprehensive lists of participating brands and locations are available through national media roundups and specialized veteran resources. Checking the brand’s official site and social channels, and calling local restaurants to confirm participation, helps avoid surprises. For online ordering, confirm whether the offer is available digitally and whether a code is required. For carryout or drive-thru, ask whether the free item applies in that channel. For events hosted by local veterans’ organizations and community groups, monitor local news listings for times, locations, and eligibility.

Tips for Maximizing Free Meals and Items

• Start early for daypart-specific offers (breakfast or lunch) to avoid lines.
• Bring the appropriate form of identification; if a spouse is included, verify that the offer extends to them before making plans.
• If a voucher or card is issued, note the expiration date and plan redemption accordingly.
• Use app codes for online ordering when they are provided; confirm whether in-store and app redemption are both available.
• Ask about exclusions (e.g., delivery) and confirm the menu items covered by the special menu.
• Consider combining a local veterans’ organization event with a chain free meal if your schedule and local logistics allow.

How Offers Vary by State and Region

Chain participation is national, but certain offers are limited to particular regions. Examples include:

• In-N-Out Burger: Free burger, fries, and drink for veterans and active-duty military in Western states.
• Wienerschnitzel: Free Original Chili Dog, small fries, and small soda in the Southwest, Northwest, and Midwest.
• Taco John’s: Veterans Day special via app in Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
• Thirsty Lion: Free meals for veterans and active-duty military in Arizona, Colorado, Oregon, and Texas.
• TCBY: Free first 6-ounce frozen yogurt at participating locations nationwide.
• Twin Peaks: Free meal from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in participating locations.

Because regional coverage varies, local confirmation remains essential. In some cases, online ordering can bridge geographic gaps by enabling redemption at supported locations, while in other cases online ordering is explicitly excluded from the offer.

Online Ordering and Codes

Several brands allow online or app redemption with a code:

• Einstein Bros. Bagels: Use code FREECOFFEE via mobile app or online; no purchase required. Free coffee is available in-bakery as well.
• Fazoli’s: Code VET25 required; dine-in only; must present valid Military ID or wear a uniform.
• Famous Dave’s: Use code VETERAN25 at checkout for online orders; free Georgia Chopped Pork Sandwich lunch with choice of side on Nov. 11.
• Firehouse Subs: Second sub free with valid military ID; verify whether app or online redemption is supported locally.
• Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers: Free Combo meal card provided on Nov. 11; no purchase necessary; redemption available through Dec. 31, 2025. Cards may be used for dine-in, to-go, and online ordering; delivery typically excluded.
• Granite City: Use code VETERANS25 for online orders; free entrée from a special menu and a non-alcoholic beverage, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; not valid for delivery.
• Starbucks: Use code FREECOFFEE via app or online for free tall coffee; in-store redemption also available; no purchase required.
• Village Inn: Use code VETERANS25 for online redemption of the free 2-2-2 Breakfast; all-day availability; dine-in, to-go, and online ordering supported where applicable.

When using codes, check for specific windows or limitations, confirm whether dine-in is required, and be aware that delivery may be excluded even if carryout or to-go orders are allowed.

Separating Veterans Day Offers from Year-Round Discounts

Veterans Day deals are distinct from the many year-round discounts that retailers and service providers offer to military members. Examples include Target, Home Depot, and Lowe’s, which maintain ongoing military discount programs. These are separate from the free meals and services offered on Nov. 11 and typically require proof of service at checkout or via a membership program. If a consumer plans to maximize savings, reviewing year-round discount policies alongside Veterans Day offers can help align shopping and dining plans.

Local Events and Community Programs

On and around Veterans Day, local community groups, American Legion and VFW posts, churches, Elks lodges, and nonprofits host meals for veterans. Times, menus, and eligibility vary, and local news listings are the most practical way to discover specific events. The consistent theme across these programs is a welcoming environment for veterans, often with no requirements beyond proof of service. When paired with national chain offers, local events can help veterans and their families plan a full day of meals and support.

Limitations and Variability

It is important to note that offers can change from year to year, and local participation may vary. Time windows may be enforced, and some brands restrict free offers to dine-in only. Delivery is frequently excluded even if carryout or to-go orders are accepted. Proof of service is commonly required, and some brands explicitly note the need for a valid ID or uniform. Because the specifics differ by brand and location, calling ahead and checking official brand resources remains a best practice.

Conclusion

Veterans Day brings a broad array of free meals, single items, and discounts from national restaurant chains, regional operators, and service providers. For many brands, redemption is straightforward: present proof of service, dine in (or use the specified channel) during the stated time window, and follow any posted codes or instructions. Extended redemption through vouchers or cards—Freddy’s Combo meal cards are a clear example—adds flexibility beyond the day itself. Beyond dining, car wash services, lodging programs like B&Bs for Vets, and ongoing retail discounts broaden the range of available benefits. The most effective approach combines preparation, local verification, and awareness of codes and time windows, helping veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard, and spouses take full advantage of the offers.

Sources

1. Restaurants providing Veterans Day "freebies" for American vets
2. Military Money – Veterans Day Deals
3. Veteran’s Table – 7 Cups Listing (Charleston, WV)
4. USA Today – Veterans Day Freebies and Discounts (Nov. 2025)
5. Military.com – Restaurants Veterans Day Military Discounts