Veterans Day 2025 Free Meals And Deals Complete Guide For Military Members And Veterans

Nov. 19, 2025, 1:08 p.m.

Tags: day chicken file veteran

Veterans Day 2025, observed on Tuesday, November 11, presents an opportunity for businesses across the United States to honor military service members and veterans by offering complimentary meals, discounts, and special deals. This federal holiday, celebrated since 1919, marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I and provides a moment for Americans to express gratitude to those who have served in the armed forces.

As Veterans Day approaches, numerous restaurants and businesses have announced their 2025 offerings to thank military personnel for their service. These offers vary by establishment and location, with some requiring valid military identification while others extend benefits to active-duty service members, veterans, and sometimes their families. Participation in these programs often depends on individual franchise decisions, particularly for chain restaurants.

This comprehensive guide details the confirmed and anticipated Veterans Day 2025 free meals and deals available across the United States, organized by restaurant type and category. Information is based on official announcements and verified sources, though readers are encouraged to confirm details with local establishments before planning their visits.

Chick-fil-A Veterans Day Offers

Chick-fil-A has established a tradition of honoring military service members on Veterans Day, though the specific offerings may vary by location due to the franchise-based ownership model. The company operates as a franchise system, meaning individual restaurant owners have discretion regarding participation in Veterans Day promotions.

For Veterans Day 2025, Chick-fil-A restaurants may offer: - Free chicken sandwich or 8-count nuggets (confirmed at Reno and Sparks locations with specific hours: 6:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Sparks / 10 p.m. Reno) - Free chicken biscuit during breakfast hours - Free sandwich during lunch or dinner hours

Participation in these offers depends on individual franchise decisions, as noted in multiple sources. Military personnel and veterans are advised to: 1. Verify participation with their local Chick-fil-A restaurant 2. Bring valid military identification 3. Check if the offer is available for dine-in only or if other service methods are included

Chick-fil-A maintains a store locator on its official website (Chick-fil-A.com) for customers to find their nearest locations and potentially confirm participation in Veterans Day promotions.

Fast Food Chain Offers

Several fast food chains have announced Veterans Day 2025 promotions for military personnel and veterans:

McDonald's

Some McDonald's restaurants are offering free breakfast meals to veterans and active-duty military on November 11, 2025. Specifically, veterans with valid military ID can receive a free Egg McMuffin meal at participating locations. As with many chain promotions, participation may vary by location, so checking with local restaurants is recommended.

IHOP

IHOP has confirmed that it will offer active military and veterans a free Red, White & Blueberry Pancake Combo with valid military ID on November 11, 2025. This offer is available for dine-in only, so takeout or delivery options are not included in the promotion.

Burger King

While Burger King does not list specific Veterans Day 2025 deals or freebies, the fast food chain provides a 10% discount for those enrolled in the WeSalute program at some participating locations. Few locations advertise this offer, so veterans should check their nearest location when ordering and bring their military ID to verify eligibility.

Smashburger

Smashburger has a history of offering veterans and active-duty military members a free All-American Smash on Veterans Day, as they did in 2024. For 2025, the company is likely to offer a similar freebie or deal, though specific details remain unconfirmed. Smashburger maintains a list of "participating locations" for Veterans Day, though it is unclear if these listings are from 2024 or 2025. Interested parties should monitor Smashburger's social media pages, website, or use the location finder at Smashburger.com for updated information.

White Castle

Information about White Castle's Veterans Day 2025 offerings is incomplete in the available sources. The company has participated in previous years' promotions, but specific details for 2025 have not been fully documented.

Circle K

Circle K offers veterans and service members a free medium hot or iced coffee on Veterans Day, November 11, 2025. Participants need only show a military ID at participating U.S. stores to receive this complimentary beverage.

Dairy Queen

Participating Dairy Queen locations offer a complimentary item to veterans and military personnel on Veterans Day. While the specific item may vary by location, this promotion provides a sweet thank-you to those who have served.

Casey's

Casey's extends appreciation to veterans year-round with a complimentary coffee or fountain drink with proof of service. On Veterans Day specifically, this offer remains available to all veterans and active-duty military members, as well as uniformed first responders.

Casual Dining Restaurant Offers

Numerous casual dining restaurants have announced Veterans Day 2025 promotions to honor military service members:

Chili's Grill & Bar

All participating Chili's Grill & Bar restaurants will serve a complimentary dine-in meal to veterans and active-duty military from a special Veterans Day menu on November 11, 2025. A valid military ID or proof of service is required, and the discount is limited to veterans who dine-in. The offer may extend to spouses and dependents, though this varies by location.

Applebee's

Applebee's is offering veterans and active-duty service members a free meal from a special menu on Veterans Day. The available options include: - Classic Bacon Cheeseburger - 6 oz. Top Sirloin - Chicken Tenders Platters - Double Crunch Shrimp - Fiesta Lime Chicken - Oriental Chicken Salad - Three-Cheese Chicken Penne

In some locations, such as those in Reno-Sparks, the offer includes an additional $5 Bounce Back Card good for a future visit. The promotion is typically dine-in only and requires valid military identification.

Buffalo Wild Wings

Veterans and active-duty service members can receive 10 free boneless wings and fries with valid ID on Veterans Day. This offer is available for dine-in or, if ordering from a Buffalo Wild Wings GO location, available for walk-in/orders placed at the counter only.

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse

BJ's is offering veterans and active-duty military members a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie® dessert with no minimum food purchase. This offer is not valid for the Pizookie® Trio or Pizookie® Party Platter and cannot be combined with any other offers or discounts. Participants must present Military ID or other proof of service. The offer does not include tax and gratuity. In some locations, like Reno-Sparks, the offer includes an additional voucher for an appetizer to use later.

Outback Steakhouse

Outback Steakhouse is honoring veterans with a 10% discount on meals and a complimentary Bloomin Onion. This offer requires valid military identification and may vary by location.

Claim Jumper

Claim Jumper Steakhouse & Bar offers veterans a free entrée from a special menu when they show valid ID on Veterans Day. Diners also receive a $5 card for their next visit, providing ongoing appreciation beyond the holiday itself.

Longhorn Steakhouse

Longhorn Steakhouse is providing veterans and active-duty military members with a 10% discount on meals during their Veterans Day celebration.

Glory Days Grill

Glory Days Grill is offering 50% off any entree for veterans and active-duty military personnel who present valid identification.

California Pizza Kitchen

California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) is honoring U.S. veterans and active-duty service members with a complimentary entrée and drink from a prix fixe menu when dining in on November 11, 2025.

Chicken Salad Chick

All locations of Chicken Salad Chick are offering a free meal, with a side and drink, for veterans and active duty military on November 11, 2025. The meal includes one scoop or sandwich, a side and a fountain drink. This offer is available in-restaurant only, with Signature Sandwiches and 3-item meals not included. Service members in uniform or those with a valid military ID or DD214 are eligible.

Bob Evans

Bob Evans is offering veterans and active-duty military members a free, farm-fresh meal on November 11, 2025. The Veterans Day menu features 10 hearty favorites, and the offer is available for dine-in only.

Carolina Ale House

Carolina Ale House locations in North Carolina (and Florida and Tennessee) are offering veterans a free half rack rib platter on November 11, 2025. This promotion is available for dine-in only.

Cracker Barrel

Cracker Barrel is offering a free Sunrise Pancake Special to all veterans and active-duty service members on November 11, 2025, for dine-in guests nationwide.

Farinas Pasta Bar-Veteran Owned

From November 10th through November 17th, 2025, Farinas Pasta Bar will donate 10% of sales from their Southern Fried Chicken Parm, Pistachio Pesto, and Meatball Marinara to Warrior Canine Connection (WCC).

Mission BBQ

Mission BBQ is offering veterans a free sandwich on Veterans Day as a token of appreciation for their service.

Regional and Local Offers

Beyond national chains, numerous regional and local businesses participate in Veterans Day celebrations:

Atlantis Casino (Reno-Sparks)

The Atlantis Casino is offering a free lunch buffet at Toucan Charlie's for veterans and spouses with a Monarch Rewards card and military ID. This promotion runs from November 11-13, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Black Bear Diner

Black Bear Diner is participating in Reno-Sparks with free breakfast or lunch options for veterans in Reno, and breakfast with coffee or tea from a set menu for veterans in Sparks.

Cicis Pizza

Cicis Pizza invites Veterans and Active-Duty Military members to enjoy a free meal on November 11, 2025.

Friendly's

While specific details are limited, Friendly's is among the restaurants offering free meals to veterans and active military members on Veterans Day 2025.

McDonald's (Regional Variations)

Some McDonald's restaurants are offering free breakfast meals to veterans and active-duty military on November 11, 2025. Veterans with valid military ID can receive a free Egg McMuffin meal at participating locations, though participation varies by franchise.

Important Information for Veterans Day Offers

Before heading out to take advantage of Veterans Day promotions, military personnel and veterans should consider the following:

Identification Requirements

Nearly all Veterans Day offers require proof of military service. Acceptable forms of identification typically include: - Military ID card (active duty, reserve, or retired) - DD-214 discharge papers - Veterans designation on driver's license - Other official documentation verifying service status

Some establishments may accept VA veteran IDs in addition to standard military identification.

Participation Variations

For chain restaurants, participation in Veterans Day promotions often depends on individual franchise decisions. What is offered at one location may not be available at another, even within the same chain. This is particularly true for: - Chick-fil-A - McDonald's - Burger King - Other franchise-based establishments

Service Method Restrictions

Many offers are limited to dine-in service only. Some establishments may offer: - Dine-in only - Takeout or carryout options - Drive-thru service - Specific ordering requirements (such as counter service only at certain locations)

Before visiting, it's advisable to confirm whether the offer includes your preferred service method.

Date and Time Restrictions

Most Veterans Day promotions are specifically for November 11, 2025, though some may extend over the weekend or include November 10-12. Additionally, some offers may be restricted to certain meal periods (breakfast, lunch, or dinner) or have specific time windows. For example: - Applebee's: 11 a.m.–midnight - BJ's: 11 a.m.–midnight - Buffalo Wild Wings: 11 a.m.–midnight - Chick-fil-A: 6:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Sparks / 10 p.m. Reno

Accommodations for Spouses and Dependents

Some restaurants extend their Veterans Day offers to include spouses and dependents, though policies vary: - Atlantis Casino: Includes spouses with Monarch Rewards card + military ID - Chili's: May extend to spouses and dependents, but varies by location - Other establishments: Typically limited to the service member only

Regional Differences

Offers may differ significantly by region, with some local businesses participating that aren't part of national chains. The Reno-Sparks area, for example, has numerous local establishments offering Veterans Day promotions not found elsewhere.

Verification of Offers

While many Veterans Day promotions are well-established and repeat annually, businesses may change their offerings from year to year. Some promotions mentioned in this guide are unverified or based on previous years' practices. When possible, verify current offers through: - Official restaurant websites - Direct phone calls to local establishments - Social media announcements from businesses

Etiquette and Appreciation

When taking advantage of Veterans Day offers: - Be patient, as restaurants may be busier than usual - Consider tipping generously to show appreciation for the complimentary meal - Be understanding if a business has run out of promotional items or cannot honor the offer - Thank the staff for their participation in honoring veterans

Conclusion

Veterans Day 2025 presents numerous opportunities for military service members and veterans to receive complimentary meals, discounts, and special deals from businesses across the United States. From fast food chains to casual dining establishments and local businesses, the tradition of honoring those who have served continues to grow.

Chick-fil-A, with its franchise-based ownership model, offers varying promotions by location, with potential options including free chicken sandwiches, nuggets, or biscuits depending on the restaurant. Other major chains like IHOP, McDonald's, Chili's, Applebee's, and Buffalo Wild Wings have established Veterans Day traditions with specific offers requiring valid military identification.

As with any promotional event, participation may vary by location, and some offers may be subject to change. Military personnel and veterans are encouraged to verify details with local establishments before planning their visits, bring appropriate identification, and be aware of any restrictions on service methods or meal periods.

These offers, while small tokens of appreciation, represent the broader gratitude of American businesses and communities for the service and sacrifice of military veterans and active-duty service members. By participating in these promotions, veterans can enjoy a well-deserved thank-you while businesses demonstrate their commitment to honoring those who have protected the nation's freedoms.