Veterans Day 2025 is here, and businesses across the country are rolling out the red carpet for America’s heroes. From free meals at top restaurants to deep discounts at major retailers and even complimentary admission to national parks, this year’s lineup of Veterans Day freebies is more generous—and creative—than ever.
Restaurants Go All-Out: Free Meals and Treats Galore
If you’re a veteran or active-duty service member, prepare to eat well this November 11.
Applebee’s is once again leading the charge, offering a free full-size entrée from a special menu to anyone with a military ID.
Denny’s is serving up its iconic Original Grand Slam breakfast for free until noon, while
Buffalo Wild Wings is handing out complimentary boneless wings and fries.
Craving something sweet?
Dunkin’ is giving away free donuts, and
Starbucks is pouring free tall coffees or teas—not just for veterans, but for military spouses too.
Red Robin is offering a free Tavern Burger and fries for dine-in guests, and
Little Caesars is giving away lunch combos from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Here’s a quick look at some of the standout restaurant deals:
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Applebee’s: Free entrée from a select menu
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Denny’s: Free Original Grand Slam (open–noon)
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Buffalo Wild Wings: Free boneless wings and fries
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Red Robin: Free Tavern Burger and fries
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Starbucks: Free tall coffee or tea (includes military spouses)
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Dunkin’: Free donut
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Little Caesars: Free lunch combo (11 a.m.–2 p.m.)
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Shake Shack: Free Big Shack burger for veterans and active military
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Sheetz: Free half turkey sub, fountain drink, and car wash at select locations
Most offers require proof of service, so bring your military ID or wear your uniform.
Retailers and Brands: Deep Discounts for Vets
It’s not just about food—major retailers are offering serious savings for veterans and their families.
Kohl’s is slashing
30% off qualifying purchases,
Target is offering
10% off, and
Under Armour is giving a whopping
40% off to military members and spouses.
Amazon is joining in with a
20% discount, and
Samsung is matching Kohl’s with 30% off select products.
Other notable deals include:
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Ashley Furniture: 10% off at participating stores
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Food Lion: 10% off in-store purchases
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IKEA: 15% off home furnishings (up to
$3,000)
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Walgreens: 20% off, including military family members
Free Admission: Parks, Museums, and More
Looking for an adventure? Veterans and their families can enjoy
free admission to all National Park sites on Veterans Day. Museums are also joining in: the
Country Music Hall of Fame,
Monticello,
Mount Vernon, and the
National WWI Museum are all waiving entry fees for veterans.
Theme parks and attractions are getting in on the action, too:
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Knott’s Berry Farm: Discounted admission for veterans and up to five guests
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Six Flags Discovery Kingdom: Free admission for veterans, discounted tickets for family
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Mammoth Mountain: Free lift ticket for veterans
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Zoos nationwide: Many offer free or discounted admission—check your local zoo for details
Local Deals and Special Offers
Many local businesses, from car washes to coffee shops, are offering their own Veterans Day perks. For example,
Sheetz is giving away not just food but also a free car wash at locations with that service.
Scooter’s Coffee is offering a free medium drink to veterans.
What This Means: A Nation’s Gratitude in Action
These freebies and discounts are more than just marketing—they’re a tangible way for businesses and communities to say “thank you” to those who have served. The sheer variety and value of this year’s offers reflect a growing recognition of veterans’ sacrifices.
Tips for Veterans and Families
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Bring proof of service: Most deals require a military ID, VA card, or other proof.
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Check participation: Not all locations may honor national deals—call ahead.
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Look for local offers: Many small businesses offer unadvertised deals.
The Bottom Line
Veterans Day 2025 is shaping up to be a banner year for freebies and discounts. Whether you’re craving a burger, planning a family outing, or looking to save on holiday shopping, there’s something for every veteran and military family. It’s a small but meaningful way for America to give back to those who’ve given so much.
Sources
1. Veterans Day Discounts & Freebies 2025
2. Stopgap deal signals end to shutdown but renews ...
3. 2025 Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Deals ...
4. PeerGalaxy Calendar of Peer Support, Recovery ...
5. Veterans Day Free Meals and Discounts in 2025 (Verified)
6. Veterans Day meals 2025: Eat free at Applebee's, ...
7. Top 100 Veterans Day Military Deals and Discounts for 2025
8. In-N-Out, Starbucks and Veterans Day food deals ...
