Memorial Day 2025 Freebies Discounts And Deals Complete Guide For Military And Consumers

Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May each year, serves as a time when Americans honor the nation's fallen military heroes while also enjoying the unofficial start of summer. Beyond the solemn remembrance, the holiday weekend has become known for numerous freebies, discounts, and special offers across various sectors. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Memorial Day 2025 freebies, focusing on military-specific benefits, restaurant deals, retail discounts, entertainment options, and convenience store promotions.

Military-Specific Memorial Day Freebies and Discounts

Memorial Day offers special recognition and benefits for active duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. Many establishments extend gratitude through complimentary services, meals, and exclusive discounts during this holiday weekend.

For active and retired service members, City Museum is offering General Admission free of charge during Memorial Day Weekend from May 23 through May 26. The museum has also extended a special group discount, allowing accompanying individuals to purchase General Admission for $18, which is $4 less than the regular price of $22. Military identification is required at the time of purchase, and the service member must be present to qualify for the discount.

Caribou Coffee is demonstrating its appreciation for military service by offering free hot brewed coffee of the day to service members, as well as their spouses and families, specifically on Memorial Day. Additionally, the company has committed to donating $0.25 to the American Red Cross Service for every purchase made on May 30, with a maximum donation of $50,000. These funds will support active-duty service members, veterans, and military families.

Several restaurant chains are acknowledging military service with special Memorial Day offers. Applebee's is participating by providing active, retired military service members and their families with a 10% discount on their bills at participating locations. Similarly, Carrabba's extends a consistent 10% discount to military personnel and veterans every day of the year, with no special holiday requirements.

7-Eleven is honoring veterans through its Veterans Advantage program, which offers free coffee or a Big Gulp beverage on Memorial Day. Veterans can also enhance their benefits by linking their 7Rewards and Veterans Advantage accounts to earn extra rewards with purchases.

Restaurant Food Deals and Free Meals

Memorial Day weekend has become a popular time for restaurant promotions, with many chains offering special deals, discounts, and complimentary items to customers. These offers vary by location and may require specific conditions to be met.

Applebee's is running a promotion that extends beyond Memorial Day itself, offering one free Fandango movie ticket to Top Gun: Maverick with the purchase of $25 or more at participating Applebee's locations. This offer is valid for dine-in, takeout, or delivery orders made through the Applebee's website or mobile app, and runs from May 16 through June 12. Customers who spend $50 or more during this period receive two free movie tickets.

For those looking specifically at Memorial Day weekend, Applebee's is anticipated to offer an All-You-Can-Eat meal in 2026, though specific details for the current year are not yet available. The chain typically participates in holiday promotions, so customers may want to check with their local locations for any special Memorial Day offerings.

Cali'flour Foods is providing a 10% discount on low-carb crusts and flatbreads with the code MDW2022, valid between May 25 and May 30. This offer targets health-conscious consumers looking for grilling options during the holiday weekend.

Dickey's Barbecue Pit is expected to offer discounts on Group Packs during Memorial Day weekend when customers use a promo code at checkout online or in-app. While specific details for the current year are not available, this has been a consistent promotion for the chain during the holiday.

Fazoli's is another restaurant chain anticipated to provide a discount during Memorial Day weekend 2026 when customers use a promo code at checkout. The Italian-themed fast-casual restaurant has participated in holiday promotions in previous years.

Gopuff is offering discounts for FAM members on Memorial Day essentials such as ice cream sandwiches, sparkling water, hydration drinks, and popsicles. These discounts are expected to be available to Gopuff's subscription members during the holiday weekend.

Retail Discounts and Offers

Memorial Day weekend has become a significant shopping period, with numerous retailers offering special discounts and promotions. Many of these offers specifically target military personnel and veterans as a token of appreciation for their service.

For Memorial Day 2025, several major brands are providing exclusive military discounts. Academy Sports + Outdoors, Adidas, Crocs, HeyDude, Reebok, Samsung, Sleep Number, Stanley, and Under Armour are among the retailers offering special deals for active duty military, veterans, and spouses. These discounts typically require verified military identification and may be available both in-store and online.

Ford continues its year-round "Ford Salutes Those Who Serve" program, offering special discounts on vehicles for military personnel and first responders. This nationwide program is valid at any time and includes options for leasing, new car purchases, and service on current vehicles. Interested customers can enter their zip code on the Ford website to find the nearest dealer and learn complete program details.

Bonefish Grill in Marysville, Washington, offers a "Heroes Discount" to those who serve the country and community with 10% off their check all day, every day. This discount extends to servicemen and women, veterans, police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and paramedics who present valid service identification.

IHOP is making Family Feasts available at multiple Puget Sound locations, with options for breakfast or dinner that each contain four servings. While not exclusively a Memorial Day promotion, these feasts are modestly priced and available to anyone, making them a convenient option for holiday gatherings. Delivery fees may apply depending on the location.

Entertainment and Family Activities

Memorial Day weekend provides opportunities for family entertainment and activities, with several venues offering special promotions and events. These options range from museums to special dining experiences that embrace the holiday spirit.

City Museum in St. Louis is hosting a special Memorial Day Weekend celebration from May 23 through May 26. In addition to offering free General Admission to active and retired service members, the museum has added a "Badges of Honor" craft activity in Art City available from 10am to 4pm each day. The museum has also expanded its menu at the Rooftop Café to include backyard grill-worthy items such as Burnt End Sausage, Burnt End Brisket Sandwich, Pulled Pork Sandwich, and All-American Hot Dogs. Each entree comes with a 24 oz. drink and two side options including Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad, Coleslaw, Baked Beans, or Chips. For those looking for something sweet, the museum is offering a specialty Bomb Pop Cocktail available at Beatnik Bob's, Cowboy Bar, and Rooftop Café.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the National Parks Service offers the America the Beautiful Pass, which provides access to national parks and federal recreational lands. This pass is available year-round to U.S. military veterans and Gold Star Families, making it an excellent option for Memorial Day weekend outdoor activities.

Food Delivery and Convenience Store Deals

Convenience stores and food delivery services are also participating in Memorial Day celebrations with special deals and limited-time offers. These promotions provide convenient options for those looking to enjoy the holiday without extensive preparation.

7-Eleven is offering several Memorial Day promotions starting May 19. Customers can enjoy $2 deals on popular snacks including Clif Bars, Kellogg's Rice Krispie Treats Big Bars, and Quest Protein Cookies. For those seeking a complete meal, loyalty members can get one value grill item with 7-Select chips and a Big Gulp drink for $4, or two value grill items or one Big Bite Hot Dog with 7-Select chips and a Big Gulp drink for $5. The chain has also introduced a limited-time Summer Sprinkle Donut featuring white frosting and rainbow sprinkles, providing a festive treat for the holiday weekend. Additionally, 7-Eleven is offering a Peace Tea Caddy Shack Slurpee Drink that blends refreshing tea and lemonade flavors, perfect for beating the summer heat.

For those preferring delivery, 7-Eleven's 7NOW app is offering $20 off a $30+ delivery order with the code MONDAY20, bringing celebration essentials directly to customers' doorsteps. Veterans Advantage members can also receive free coffee or a Big Gulp beverage on Memorial Day through the program.

For 2026, 7-Eleven is anticipated to offer a delivery deal through the 7NOW app and a discount on whole pizzas during Memorial Day weekend. These deals have been consistent offerings for the chain during previous holiday periods.

Bubbakoo's Burritos is expected to offer free delivery (with no minimum purchase required) for Memorial Day weekend when customers order online or through the app in 2026. This promotion has been available in previous years, making it a convenient option for those looking to enjoy burritos without leaving home.

Burger King's Royal Perks members can look forward to a week of daily deals through Memorial Day 2026. While specific details for the current year are not yet available, this has been a consistent promotion for the chain's loyalty program during the holiday weekend.

Year-Round Military Benefits

Beyond Memorial Day-specific promotions, many businesses offer year-round military discounts and benefits that service members and veterans can utilize throughout the year. These ongoing programs provide consistent savings and recognition for military service.

Ford's "Ford Salutes Those Who Serve" program offers special discounts on vehicles for military personnel and first responders at any time. This program includes options for leasing, new car purchases, and service on current vehicles. Interested customers can enter their zip code on the Ford website to find the nearest dealer and learn complete program details.

Bonefish Grill's "Heroes Discount" provides 10% off checks for servicemen and women, veterans, police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics with valid service ID, available every day of the year.

IHOP's Family Feasts are available year-round at participating locations, offering convenient meal options for families or groups. Each feast contains four servings with options for breakfast or dinner at modest prices. Delivery fees may apply depending on the location.

The National Parks Service America the Beautiful Pass is available year-round to U.S. military veterans and Gold Star Families, providing access to national parks and federal recreational lands throughout the country.

Conclusion

Memorial Day offers numerous opportunities for consumers to save money while enjoying the holiday weekend. For military personnel and veterans, the holiday brings special recognition through complimentary services, meals, and exclusive discounts at various establishments. Restaurant chains like Applebee's, Carrabba's, and 7-Eleven offer specific military benefits, while retailers provide discounts on products ranging from apparel to electronics.

Beyond military-specific offers, the general public can take advantage of restaurant promotions, retail sales, and entertainment venue specials. Food delivery services and convenience stores also provide convenient options with Memorial Day deals, making it easy to celebrate without extensive preparation.

While many of these offers are available specifically during Memorial Day weekend, some businesses provide year-round military benefits that service members can utilize throughout the year. These consistent programs demonstrate ongoing appreciation for military service beyond the holiday.

As with any promotion, customers should verify offer details with specific locations, as participation can vary. Checking expiration dates, terms and conditions, and any required identification or membership status is recommended to ensure eligibility and avoid disappointment. Memorial Day 2025 provides numerous opportunities for consumers to save while honoring the nation's heroes and enjoying the unofficial start of summer.

Sources

1. The Freebie Guy - Memorial Day Deals and Freebies
2. The Krazy Coupon Lady - Memorial Day Food Deals
3. NBC San Diego - Memorial Day Food Freebies and Dining Deals
4. Greater Seattle on the Cheap - Memorial Day Weekend Freebies and Deals
5. USA Today - Memorial Day 2025 Military Discounts and Free Food
6. City Museum - Memorial Day Weekend Event