Current Shopping Freebies And In-Store Deals Across The Us

Consumers across the United States have access to numerous freebies and in-store deals spanning food, retail, and services. From weekly promotions at major fast-food chains to special offers for veterans, these opportunities provide value to shoppers across various categories. This article examines the current landscape of shopping freebies and deals available through different channels, highlighting both everyday promotions and limited-time offers.

Food and Beverage Freebies

Fast-food chains and restaurants continue to offer regular promotions that provide complimentary items to customers. McDonald's has implemented an ongoing "Free Fries Friday" promotion where customers can receive a free medium fries with any purchase of $1 or more made through the McDonald's app. This weekly offer provides consistent value to app users throughout the year.

Taco Bell has extended a promotion through December 31 that rewards members of their loyalty program. By placing an order through the Taco Bell app and using Venmo for payment, customers receive a free Cantina Chicken Soft Taco that can be claimed on a future order. This promotion combines digital ordering with payment flexibility to deliver value to rewards members.

Arby's has offered free medium fries with any online order of $10 or more for Rewards members during specific periods. This promotion requires both membership enrollment and a minimum purchase amount, making it accessible to regular customers who engage with the brand's digital platform.

Krispy Kreme has provided free original glazed doughnuts on specific dates, such as August 9, as a limited-time promotion. This type of offer generates excitement and foot traffic to locations without requiring a purchase, serving as a marketing tool to attract new and returning customers.

Corner Bakery has implemented several promotions including free coffee with any purchase and a free Funfetti Bundt Bite on October 3 for World Smile Day. Their most generous offer includes providing the first 20 guests at each location with a free Smiley Mug and free coffee for a year, with no purchase necessary. Additionally, the bakery has offered buy-one-get-one-free deals on Baby Bundt or Bundt Bite items on specific dates like November 15.

MyPanera members have access to a free bakery treat with any minimum delivery order placed through November 16. This promotion encourages loyalty program participation and delivery service usage, while also providing value to regular customers.

Potbelly has implemented Kids Eat Free Weekends, allowing children to eat for free after 3 p.m. on weekends. This family-friendly promotion targets parents and caregivers looking for affordable dining options.

Chipotle has provided special offers for the military community, allowing customers to receive a second entrée for free with any purchase between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. on November 11. This limited-time offer recognizes military service while driving traffic during specific hours.

Retail Store Promotions

Lime, a company offering e-scooter and e-bike rentals, has operated a "More Store" concept that functions as "a corner store on a bike." This mobile retail operation has given away free snacks, rides, and Lime merchandise around Dupont Circle between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. on specific Fridays. This experiential marketing approach combines product sampling with brand engagement.

Uniqlo's reopening at Tysons Corner Center included a multi-day promotion (November 14-19) featuring free goodie bags, free breakfast for early shoppers, and free Japanese Taiko drum performances. This grand reopening strategy combines product giveaways with entertainment to create excitement around the store's relaunch.

Chicken Salad Chick's grand opening at a new location on Elden Street in Herndon implemented a tiered promotion strategy. The first 100 people in line received freebies on November 18, followed by giveaways with purchase for early visitors from November 19-22. This approach creates urgency and rewards early supporters while encouraging subsequent visits.

Several retailers have implemented tax-free shopping periods to stimulate consumer spending. Maryland has designated August 10-16 as Tax-Free Week, during which consumers do not pay sales tax on clothing and shoes priced at $100 or less. The first $40 of the cost of backpacks and bookbags are also tax-free during this period. Similarly, Virginia has implemented sales tax holidays for back-to-school shopping and hurricane preparedness, providing additional savings on eligible items.

National retailers have offered specialized promotions for specific groups. For instance, The InActive Company has provided 30% off and free shipping for military personnel with code VETERAN30 during November 11-12. LoveSac has offered 40% off modular couches or chairs with a verified military ID through November 6. These targeted promotions provide savings to specific communities while demonstrating brand support.

Veterans Day Special Offers

Veterans Day has prompted numerous businesses to offer special discounts and free items to military personnel and their families. These expressions of gratitude take various forms across different industries and service sectors.

Automotive services have shown their appreciation through complimentary offerings. Waters Car Wash and Russell Speeder's Car Wash have provided free car washes to all veterans and active duty military personnel on November 11. This practical benefit addresses a routine need while recognizing service.

Fast-food chains have implemented substantial meal deals for veterans. Wienerschnitzel has offered a free Original Chili Dog, Small Fries, and Small Soda to veterans and active-duty military in uniform or with military ID. White Castle has provided free individual combo meals or breakfast combo meals on November 11. These meal promotions provide substantial value to military members.

Restaurant chains have created specialized offers for military personnel. WOB Bar & Kitchen has offered complimentary 2-piece Smash Burger Sliders to veterans and active-duty service members on November 11. MOD Pizza has provided 50% off a MOD-size pizza or salad for veterans, active duty military, or their spouses. Ojos Locos Sports Cantina has offered 20% off all food items for veterans and active-duty military at all locations. These restaurant promotions recognize military service while encouraging dining out.

Retail establishments have implemented significant discounts for military members. AutoNation has provided a 20% discount in-store from November 10 to November 15. Tender Greens has offered 50% off any order for Veterans and their family members, up to 8 people, on November 11. These retail promotions provide substantial savings on various products and services.

Seasonal and Holiday Deals

Seasonal events and holidays prompt numerous special promotions and free offerings. Halloween has inspired several festive promotions, including free outdoor movie screenings such as Disney's "Halloweentown" at The Yards in D.C. These family-friendly events provide entertainment while stimulating local foot traffic.

Pet-focused seasonal promotions have also emerged. The "Howl-O-Ween Bar(k) Crawl" at The Yards in D.C. on October 15 offered dog-themed food and drinks for purchase, along with "pup perks" including free dog treats, toys, and bandannas while supplies lasted. This pet-friendly promotion acknowledges the growing market for pet-related products and experiences.

Holiday season promotions have begun to emerge as well. National Harbor has lit its 60-foot-tall holiday tree and offers nightly light and sound shows every half hour from sunset until 9 p.m. through December 27, with additional fireworks on Saturday nights. These holiday attractions draw visitors to the area and create opportunities for adjacent retail and dining experiences.

Back-to-school shopping periods have prompted tax-free events in multiple states. Maryland's Tax-Free Week (August 10-16) eliminated sales tax on clothing and shoes under $100, as well as the first $40 of backpack and bookbag costs. Virginia has implemented similar sales tax holidays for back-to-school and hurricane preparedness shopping. These tax-free periods provide significant savings on essential items.

Community Events and Promotional Activities

Beyond traditional retail promotions, community events have incorporated free elements to attract participants and build goodwill. The 17th Street High Heel Race in the Dupont Circle neighborhood has been running for 38 years, featuring a parade of costumed drag queens at 6:30 p.m. followed by the race itself at 9 p.m. These cultural events create community engagement while promoting local businesses.

Art on the Avenue in Alexandria celebrated its 30th year on October 4, combining artistic experiences with promotional opportunities. Similarly, the National Mall of Pickleball events have offered free participation opportunities, with interested individuals able to sign up for notifications about how to join the events scheduled for September 19-21. These community-focused events promote healthy activities and social engagement.

Specialty businesses have offered promotional discounts to attract new customers. The DRIPBaR, which offers IV vitamin and hydration therapy, provided 50% off the first IV drip and a free B12 shot for visits booked before October 11 for its new Georgetown location. This introductory offer encourages trial of a specialized service.

Conclusion

The current landscape of shopping freebies and in-store deals offers numerous opportunities for consumers to save money and try new products. From regular promotions like McDonald's Free Fries Fridays to limited-time offers like Corner Bakery's free Smiley Mug giveaways, these deals span various categories and industries. Veterans Day promotions demonstrate how businesses show appreciation to military personnel through complimentary services and significant discounts. Seasonal events and holidays inspire specialized promotions that align with the time of year, while community events incorporate free elements to encourage participation. Tax-free shopping periods provide substantial savings on essential items, particularly during back-to-school seasons. By staying informed about these offers through various channels, consumers can maximize value and take advantage of the diverse array of freebies and deals available across the United States.

Sources

1. WTOP Friday Freebies
2. Deals Today
3. Krazy Coupon Lady Freebies
4. USA Today Veterans Day Freebies