Election Day Freebies And Deals Available Across Florida

Election Day has evolved beyond just civic duty to become an opportunity for businesses to offer promotions and freebies to voters. In 2024, numerous companies across Florida are providing incentives for residents to participate in the democratic process. These offers range from complimentary food items to discounted transportation services, with varying requirements regarding proof of voting. The following details the Election Day freebies available to Florida residents, organized by category and business.

Food and Beverage Freebies

Several restaurant and food chains are offering Election Day specials to encourage voter participation. These promotions provide an additional incentive for residents to make their voices heard at the polls.

Doughnut Delights

Krispy Kreme is among the most prominent chains offering Election Day freebies. The North Carolina-based doughnut company will distribute "I Voted" stickers and provide one Original Glazed doughnut free of charge to customers who visit its participating Florida locations on Election Day. Notably, Krispy Kreme does not require customers to provide proof that they have actually cast their ballots to receive their free doughnut. According to brand officer Dave Skena, the promotion aims to "celebrate" participation in democracy.

Milkshake Offers

Johnny Rockets, a 1950s diner-style chain, is offering customers one free shake with any in-store purchase on Election Day at participating Florida locations. To redeem this offer, guests simply need to mention the "Free Shake" promotion at the register. The chain operates multiple locations throughout the state, making this offer accessible to many voters.

Pizza Promotions

Round Table Pizza, with more than 400 locations primarily on the West Coast but also in some Florida markets, is offering $6 off a large or extra-large pizza for dine-in, carry-out, or delivery at participating locations. This discount provides an affordable option for voters to enjoy a meal after casting their ballots.

Frozen Yogurt Treats

Ikea, the Swedish furniture retailer, is offering free frozen yogurt at its Florida locations on Election Day. Unlike some other promotions, this offer requires customers to present either a printed or electronic version of a specific coupon available through the company's website. The promotion aims to "celebrate and support voting rights" according to the company.

Cookie Compliments

4Rivers Smokehouse, which has locations throughout central Florida, is offering a free Patriot-themed cookie to customers who display their "I Voted" sticker at any participating location on Election Day. This promotion encourages civic participation by rewarding voters with a sweet treat.

Drink Discounts

Lazy Dog restaurants, with approximately 50 locations across eight states including some in Florida, are offering a free non-alcoholic drink with any entree purchase to diners who present an "I Voted" sticker. This promotion requires both proof of voting and a qualifying purchase.

At Chili's restaurants, voters can enjoy a $5 Presidente Margarita at participating Florida locations on Election Day. This discounted beverage offer provides a way for voters to relax after participating in the electoral process.

Evening Eats

Boston Market is offering a free slider from 9 p.m. to closing on Election Day for those planning to watch the election results roll in. This promotion is available at participating Florida locations and provides a late-night snack option for engaged voters monitoring the outcomes of the day's voting.

Transportation Deals

Getting to the polls is made easier with several transportation companies offering Election Day discounts and free rides.

Rideshare Discounts

Uber is providing Florida voters with 50% off trips to their polling places, with discounts of up to $10. This promotion is accessible through the "Go Vote!" tile in the Uber app, which also helps users find the nearest polling location. Additionally, Uber Eats is offering 25% off orders up to $15, with a $25 minimum purchase requirement. The Uber Eats discount is available from 6 p.m. local time on November 5 to 7 a.m. local time on November 6.

Scooter and Bike Access

Lime, the electric scooter and bike sharing company, is offering free rides to polling places through Tuesday. Voters can access this promotion by entering the code VOTE2024 at checkout. This service provides an eco-friendly and convenient transportation option for voters who live close enough to their polling places to use scooters or bikes.

Fitness Offers

For those looking to work off Election Day stress or maintain their routines despite the busy day, Planet Fitness is offering free workouts at any of its Florida locations from November 3 to 8. This extended promotion gives voters multiple days to take advantage of the complimentary gym access, allowing them to exercise before or after casting their ballots.

How to Access These Offers

Location Requirements

Most promotions are only available at participating locations, which means availability may vary depending on specific store franchises and regional coverage. For instance, while Krispy Kreme has numerous locations throughout Florida, some smaller chains or regional restaurants may only operate in specific areas like central Florida (as covered by FOX 35 Orlando) or South Florida.

Proof of Voting Requirements

The requirements for proof of voting vary significantly among participating businesses:

• Krispy Kreme does not require voters to prove they cast their ballots
• Johnny Rockets requires only mentioning the promotion at purchase
• Round Table Pizza simply requires making a qualifying purchase
• Ikea requires presenting a specific coupon
• 4Rivers Smokehouse requires showing an "I Voted" sticker
• Lazy Dog requires both an "I Voted" sticker and a qualifying purchase
• Chili's simply requires mentioning the promotion at participating locations
• Boston Market requires visiting during the specified evening hours
• Planet Fitness requires no proof of voting, just visiting during the promotional period

Coupon Requirements

Some promotions require specific coupons or codes:

• Ikea requires a printed or electronic coupon available on their website
• Lime requires entering the code VOTE2024 at checkout
• Uber requires accessing the promotion through the app's "Go Vote!" tile

Florida Election Context

While the focus here is on Election Day freebies, it's worth noting some relevant Florida election information. The Florida Division of Elections has assigned 15 workers to an Election Day hotline to assist voters experiencing problems or witnessing election violations. An additional 20 employees are on standby if call volumes exceed expectations.

Polls in Florida are open until 7 p.m. on Election Day. For voters with mail-in ballots, officials recommend not mailing them on Election Day. Instead, voters should take their mail-in ballots to their precinct, have them voided, and cast a vote using a regular ballot.

Conclusion

Election Day 2024 offers numerous freebies and discounts to Florida voters, ranging from complimentary food items to transportation discounts and free fitness access. These promotions, offered by national chains with Florida locations, provide additional incentives for residents to participate in the democratic process. While availability varies by location and specific franchise participation, voters throughout the state have multiple opportunities to enjoy these benefits. The requirements for proof of voting and coupon usage differ by business, so voters should check the specific terms of each promotion before taking advantage of these offers. Regardless of the freebies, the most important benefit of Election Day participation is exercising one's civic right and responsibility.

Sources

1. CNN - Free Discounts on Election Day
2. Tallahassee - Leon Expects Record Turnout
3. FOX 35 Orlando - Election Day Freebies in Central Florida
4. Palm Beach Post - Palm Beach County School Holidays
5. Forbes - Companies Giving Out Election Day Freebies