Cedar Rapids Veterans Day Events And Community Support For Military Service Members

Veterans Day provides an important opportunity for communities across the United States to honor and thank those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. In Cedar Rapids and surrounding areas, various organizations, restaurants, and businesses demonstrate their appreciation through special events, free meals, and discounts. While specific information about 2018 Veterans Day freebies in Cedar Rapids is not available in the current data, this article provides an overview of Veterans Day celebrations and offerings in the region based on available information.

Cedar Rapids Veterans Day Events

The Cedar Rapids area hosts several events to honor veterans on Veterans Day. According to available information, the War & Remembrance Veterans Day Tribute is scheduled for Saturday, November 11th at 4pm. This free concert features Ethan Elsbernd (baritone) and Sarah Rosales (soprano) with Nathan Carterette (pianist), exploring haunting lyrics and arresting melodies in a performance that honors the men and women who have served the country. The event is free and open to the public, providing an opportunity for community members to come together in remembrance and appreciation.

Additionally, Cedar Rapids offers various community activities that support veterans and military families throughout the year. These initiatives demonstrate the community's ongoing commitment to honoring those who have served, not just on Veterans Day but throughout the year.

Regional Veterans Day Freebies in Iowa

Across Iowa, numerous restaurants and businesses participate in honoring veterans by offering free meals and discounts on Veterans Day. While specific details about 2018 offers are not available, information about 2025 Veterans Day offerings provides insight into the types of recognition veterans might typically receive:

In Dubuque, the Fighting Saints hockey team offers free tickets to military personnel for their November 11th game against the Youngstown Phantoms. This opportunity allows veterans and active service members to enjoy an evening of entertainment as a token of appreciation.

South Clinton hosts a Veterans Network event at the Great Revivalist Brewery on Thursday, November 9th, from 5 to 7pm. This gathering specifically supports local veterans and provides an opportunity for community members to express their gratitude. The event is located at 238 4th Ave South and brings together veterans and supporters in a casual setting.

Malvern organizes a Salute to Veterans on Sunday, November 12th from 5 to 7 pm, which is open to all Mills County Veterans and one adult guest (age 16 & older). The event features a catered dinner by Classic Cafe, patriotic music and videos, and door prizes. This extended celebration allows veterans to be honored beyond the actual Veterans Day date.

Restaurant Freebies and Discounts

Restaurants across Iowa and the nation typically participate in Veterans Day by offering free meals or discounts to veterans and active-duty service members. While specific 2018 information for Cedar Rapids restaurants is not available, the following examples of Veterans Day offerings provide insight into the types of recognition veterans might receive:

Restaurant Offers in Iowa

Applebee's typically offers active-duty military, veterans, reserves, and National Guard a complimentary full-size entrée from a special menu on Veterans Day, November 11th. Additionally, recipients receive a $5 Bounce Back Card that can be redeemed for dine-in, takeout, or delivery within a three-week redemption window. This offer provides not just an immediate free meal but also future dining opportunities.

Buffalo Wild Wings commonly provides veterans and active-duty service members with a free order of 10 Boneless Wings and Fries on November 11th with valid ID. This offer is generally available for dine-in only. The casual dining environment offers veterans a relaxed setting to enjoy their free meal.

National Restaurant Offers

Several national restaurant chains have a history of offering Veterans Day freebies:

Texas Roadhouse typically provides veterans and military members with a free Texas Roadhouse meal voucher on November 11th, redeemable in-restaurant or for carry-out through May of the following year. The extended redemption period allows flexibility for veterans to use their voucher when convenient.

Chipotle usually offers guests who order an entrée in-restaurant and present a valid military ID a second entrée for free between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. local time on Veterans Day. This family-friendly option allows veterans to share a meal with a companion.

Bob Evans typically serves a free farm-fresh meal to all veterans and active-duty military at participating locations. The hearty, comfort food style appeals to many veterans and provides a satisfying dining experience.

Chili's Grill & Bar generally offers veterans and active military a free meal from select menu items on Veterans Day at participating locations for dine-in only. The diverse menu options cater to various tastes and preferences.

Denny's typically offers active and retired military a free Original Grand Slam® from 5 a.m. on Veterans Day. This breakfast option provides an early opportunity for veterans to receive recognition.

California Pizza Kitchen typically offers veterans and active military a free entrée and beverage from its special Veterans Day Menu featuring pizzas, pastas, and salads. The Italian-inspired menu offers a more upscale dining experience.

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf typically offers military families a free drink on Veterans Day, plus a $5 coupon when purchasing a $25 gift card. This offer provides both an immediate benefit and future savings.

Additional restaurant offers that have been available on Veterans Day include:

• Bombshells Restaurant and Bar: offers veterans a free meal and active-duty military 20% off on Veterans Day for dine-in in TX and CO with valid military ID
• Buca di Beppo: veterans and active-duty military can enjoy a free lunch entrée at choosing any pasta from the lunch specials menu with valid ID
• Calhoun's: offers a free meal to honor those who served in the Armed Forces (offer dates and times may vary by location)
• Claim Jumper Steakhouse & Bar: offers veterans and active-duty service members a free meal from its select Veterans Day menu on November 11
• 151 Coffee: veterans and active-duty military can enjoy a free drink of any size by showing a valid military ID
• Cotton Patch Cafe: active and retired military can enjoy a free regular Chicken Fried Steak or Chicken Fried Chicken entrée with valid military ID

Retail and Other Discounts

Beyond restaurants, many retailers and businesses offer Veterans Day discounts and freebies:

Target typically offers a 10% military discount through November 11 to all active-duty military personnel, veterans and their families. The discount can be used on two separate transactions, in store or online, providing flexibility for various shopping needs.

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service offers various deals, including 10 cents off every gallon of gas at fuel locations. This practical benefit helps veterans and military families save on essential transportation costs.

151 Coffee offers veterans and active-duty military a free drink of any size on Veterans Day, providing a small but appreciated perk for those who have served.

Community Support in Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids offers various community events and activities that support veterans and military families throughout the year. While specific Veterans Day 2018 information is not available, the following community initiatives highlight the support available in the area:

The Neighbors' Table provides free meals to community members, offering an opportunity for veterans and their families to access nutritious food without cost. This program demonstrates the community's commitment to supporting those who have served.

Freebie Friday at the ImOn Ice Arena offers free activities, providing entertainment options for veterans and their families. These events create opportunities for community engagement and recreation.

The CR Reads: Summer Reading Challenge encourages literacy and community engagement, offering another way for veterans and their families to participate in community activities.

Community Stem Day, presented by SE Iowa STEM and sponsored by Collins Aerospace, provides educational opportunities that may be of interest to veterans and their families, particularly those with children interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

How to Access Veterans Day Offers

Most businesses offering Veterans Day free meals or discounts require proof of service. Acceptable forms of identification typically include:

• A driver's license with a Veteran designation
• Military ID
• U.S. Uniform Services Retired ID Card

It's important to note that offers may vary by location, and some franchises may have different policies than others. Checking with individual locations before visiting is recommended to confirm participation and specific terms.

Many offers are available for dine-in only, though some may include takeout or carry-out options. Additionally, some offers may have time restrictions, so it's advisable to check the specific hours when the promotion is valid.

For retail discounts, some may require verification through programs like ID.me, while others may accept veteran status cards or other forms of documentation. Understanding the requirements beforehand can help ensure a smooth experience when taking advantage of these offers.

Planning for Veterans Day

Veterans Day typically falls on November 11th, but some businesses and communities extend their offers or events to surrounding days. Planning ahead can help veterans and their families maximize the opportunities available:

1. Research offers in advance: Check websites and social media of favorite restaurants and businesses to confirm participation and specific terms.
2. Gather necessary documentation: Ensure valid military ID or veteran designation is available when planning to use offers.
3. Consider timing: Some offers are available only during specific hours, so planning visits accordingly is important.
4. Group with fellow veterans: Many veterans enjoy celebrating with comrades, so coordinating with others can enhance the experience.
5. Take advantage of multiple offers: Veterans may benefit from several free meals or discounts throughout the day, allowing for a full day of recognition.

The Impact of Veterans Day Recognition

The free meals, discounts, and events offered on Veterans Day serve multiple purposes:

1. Expressing gratitude: They provide tangible ways for businesses and communities to express appreciation for military service.
2. Creating awareness: These offers highlight the contributions of veterans to the community and the nation.
3. Supporting veterans: Beyond recognition, some offers provide practical benefits that can help veterans and their families.
4. Fostering connection: Events and gatherings create opportunities for veterans to connect with each other and with the civilian community.
5. Encouraging support: Veterans Day recognition can inspire ongoing support for veterans beyond November 11th.

Conclusion

Veterans Day provides an opportunity for communities to express their gratitude to those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. In Cedar Rapids, events like the War & Remembrance Veterans Day Tribute offer public opportunities to honor veterans, while restaurants and businesses show appreciation through free meals and discounts.

While specific information about 2018 Veterans Day freebies in Cedar Rapids is not available in the current data, the consistent pattern of community support and business appreciation suggests that veterans in the area had access to various forms of recognition on Veterans Day 2018.

For veterans and active-duty service members, Veterans Day offers not only tokens of appreciation but also opportunities to connect with fellow service members and community members who value their contributions. As communities continue to find meaningful ways to honor those who have served, Veterans Day remains an important occasion for recognition and gratitude.

Sources

1. Veteran's Day Freebies, Deals, and Events Across Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois
2. 2025 Veterans Day Deals, Discounts and Freebies
3. Veterans Day Discounts, Sales, Deals, Free Meals
4. Cedar Rapids Schools Sitemap