Memorial Day 2025 Freebies And Discounts For Veterans And Active Military Personnel

Memorial Day, observed annually on the last Monday of May, is a time to honor and remember those who have died while serving in the U.S. military. In addition to its solemn purpose, Memorial Day has also become a time when many businesses show appreciation for current and former military members by offering special discounts, free meals, and exclusive deals. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the freebies and discounts available to veterans and active military personnel during Memorial Day 2025, based on verified sources across the country.

Restaurant Offers on Memorial Day

Many restaurants participate in Memorial Day appreciation events by offering free meals or significant discounts to military personnel and veterans. These offers typically require proof of military service, which may include a military ID card, DD214 form, veterans organization card, or other official documentation.

Free Meals

Several restaurant chains provide complimentary meals on Memorial Day:

• Applebee's: Veterans and active-duty military receive a free meal from a select menu. This offer has been provided annually for 18 consecutive years according to one source. Dine-in is required, and beverages and gratuity are not included. Proof of military service must be shown.

• Buffalo Wild Wings: Participating locations offer six free boneless wings and fries to veterans and active military with valid ID.

• Chili's: Veterans and active-duty military can enjoy a free meal at participating restaurants, though specific menu options may vary by location.

• Cracker Barrel: The popular restaurant chain offers a complimentary Sunrise Pancake Breakfast to all veterans and active-duty military members who dine in and present proof of military ID. Additionally, they provide a 25% discount on Duke Cannon products and certain military-themed merchandise both online and in stores on Veterans Day.

• Denny's: From 5 a.m. to 12 p.m., veterans and active military can receive a free Original Grand Slam breakfast.

• Golden Corral: The buffet restaurant provides a free dinner buffet and beverage from 4 p.m. to close for veterans and active-duty military.

• IHOP: Participating locations offer a free Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo as part of their "Heroes Eat Free" program.

• Little Caesars Pizza: From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., veterans and active-duty military can receive a complimentary lunch combo that includes four slices of the chain's Detroit-style Deep Dish pizza and a 20-ounce Pepsi beverage. Proof of military service is required.

• Bubba's 33: Veterans can enjoy a free lunch or receive a voucher for a future visit until 4 p.m. A valid military ID may be needed for this promotion.

Buy One, Get One Free Offers

Several restaurants offer special "buy one, get one" deals on Memorial Day:

• Chipotle: From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., veterans and active-duty military who buy one entree in-store will receive the second entree for free. A valid military ID is required for this promotion.

• Firehouse Subs: Customers can buy any size sub and receive a second one free on Memorial Day.

• Logan's Roadhouse: Veterans and active military can receive a free meal from a select menu starting at 11 a.m.

Regular Military Discounts

Some restaurants offer ongoing military discounts that may be available on Memorial Day:

• Bob Evans: Generally offers a 10% discount for active duty, veterans, and retired military every day. While they've offered special menus in the past, specific Memorial Day offerings may vary by location.

• Café Rio: Participating locations provide a 25% discount nationwide to veterans from Tuesdays through Sundays with a military ID. Locations in Virginia and Maryland offer additional 50% off on Military Mondays.

• Cici's Pizza: Offers military and veterans' discounts at participating locations, though the specific discount amount varies by restaurant.

• Dairy Queen: Certain locations offer military and veterans discounts, with some providing up to 50% off select items or orders.

• TGI Fridays: Has offered a 25% discount on all family meals and platters during the Memorial Day weekend in previous years.

• Wendy's: Members of Veterans Advantage receive special coupon savings on patriotic holidays, including Memorial Day, as well as qualify for other Wendy's discounts throughout the year.

Retail Discounts on Memorial Day

Many retailers offer special discounts to military personnel and veterans during Memorial Day weekend. These discounts typically apply to both online and in-store purchases, though participation may vary by location.

Apparel and Accessories

• Adidas: Military personnel, veterans, first responders, teachers, medical professionals, and nurses can receive 30% off at Adidas online or in-store, as well as 20% off at Adidas factory outlet stores after verifying their status.

• Alpha Industries: Offers 30% off for active duty, reserve, and retired military personnel. Some exclusions may apply.

• Armitron: The watch company provides active duty, veterans, and dependents with 10% off an online purchase. Customers must verify their status online and receive a single-use code via email that can be applied at checkout.

Sports and Outdoors

• Academy Sports + Outdoors: Offers a 10% discount online and in stores to military members and first responders through July 4th.

Entertainment and Attractions

Many entertainment venues and attractions offer free admission or special discounts to military personnel and veterans on Memorial Day. These offers often extend to immediate family members.

Museums and Historical Sites

• Colonial Williamsburg: Servicemembers and veterans, along with up to three "direct dependents," are eligible for free single-day admission over Memorial Day weekend. They also receive discounted admission throughout the year.

• National World War I Museum and Memorial: Located in Kansas City, Missouri, this museum offers free admission to veterans and active duty servicemembers from May 24-27.

Zoos and Wildlife Parks

• Cincinnati Zoo: All military members—active or retired—receive free admission on Memorial Day, July 4th, and Veterans Day. They can also purchase up to six half-price admission tickets for immediate family members.

• Indianapolis Zoo: Current and former military members receive free admission on Memorial Day, as well as $2 off general admission for up to two tickets per visit.

• Birmingham Zoo: In previous years, this zoo has offered veterans, retired, and active military personnel, along with up to six family members, free admission throughout Memorial Day Weekend.

Theme Parks and Resorts

• Legoland: Parks in California, Florida, and New York offer special military deals on admission and hotel rooms. Military personnel should check their local park for specific promotions.

• United Parks and Resorts: Servicemembers and veterans can qualify for free admission (with up to three guests) at Busch Gardens, SeaWorld, Sesame Place, and other United Parks and Resorts properties nationwide. Programs vary by location.

• Vail Resorts: Servicemembers, military retirees, and their dependents can qualify for a $185 Military Epic Pass for the 2025/2026 ski season, providing access to dozens of resorts across the U.S. Discounted passes are also available for veterans and their families.

Other Memorial Day Offers for Military Personnel

In addition to restaurants, retail stores, and attractions, various other businesses and organizations offer special deals on Memorial Day:

• Circle K: Provides free hot or iced medium coffee to veterans and active military.

• Dunkin' Donuts: Veterans receive a free donut while supplies last, in-store only.

• Insomnia Cookies: Offers a free deluxe cookie with a $5 purchase from November 8-11 with a valid military ID, available in-store only. While this appears to be a Veterans Day offer rather than Memorial Day, it's worth noting as it's a popular promotion.

• The Barbershop: Some locations host annual events offering free haircuts and services to men and women who served in the armed forces.

• Brown County Rifle Range: Offers free admission for veterans to the Reforestation Camp Rifle Range, which is normally $7 per gun/bow or shooter. They also provide free gun and archery sighting for veterans and active-duty military members from 8 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

Tips for Accessing Military Freebies and Discounts

To make the most of Memorial Day offers for military personnel and veterans, consider these tips:

1. Bring Proper Identification: Most offers require proof of military service, which may include:

   • Military ID card (active duty, reserve, retired)
   • DD214 discharge papers
   • Veterans organization card (American Legion, VFW, etc.)
   • Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES)
   • Citation or commendation
   • Wearing military uniform or providing a photo in uniform

2. Call Ahead: Participation in these offers may vary by location, so it's advisable to call your local establishment to confirm they're participating and to understand any specific requirements.

3. Check Dates and Times: Many offers are only available during specific hours on Memorial Day or the surrounding weekend. Some may be extended through Memorial Day weekend.

4. Understand Restrictions: Some offers may have limitations, such as:

   • Maximum number of guests
   • Specific menu items
   • In-store only
   • While supplies last

5. Look for Year-Round Benefits: Some businesses offer ongoing military discounts that aren't limited to holidays. These may provide additional savings throughout the year.

Conclusion

Memorial Day offers numerous opportunities for veterans and active military personnel to receive free meals, discounts, and special recognition from businesses across the country. From complimentary breakfasts at popular restaurants to free admission at museums and theme parks, these gestures of appreciation provide meaningful benefits to those who have served.

While many of these offers are available on Memorial Day specifically, some businesses extend their gratitude through Veterans Day in November and other holidays throughout the year. Military personnel and veterans should take advantage of these opportunities while ensuring they have proper identification and understand the specific terms of each offer.

As Memorial Day approaches, businesses continue to find new ways to honor military service members. Veterans and active military personnel are encouraged to check with their favorite establishments to see what special offers may be available in their area, as participation and terms may vary by location.

Sources

1. US Veterans Magazine - Memorial Day Freebies and Discounts for Veterans and Servicemembers

2. WSET - List Places Offering Veterans Day Freebies and Discounts

3. KSAT - Places in San Antonio Offering Freebies to Veterans

4. MOAA - Military Appreciation Month Discounts

5. WBAY - Veterans Day Freebies, Discounts and Donations