Veterans Day 2026 deals: Where veterans can get free meals and discounts

Veterans Day is celebrated each year to honor the men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. To honor and thank veterans for their service and sacrifice, many businesses offer discounts and special deals.

The history of Veterans Day  

Originally known as Armistice Day, it was established to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in World War I when the conflict officially ended on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.  

Armistice Day was declared a federal holiday in 1938 and, following both World War II and the Korean War, a movement started to honor all American Veterans and in 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation designating November 11 as Veterans Day.  

Tips for Making the Most of Veterans Day dining deals and discounts

To maximize these offers, veterans and active-duty military members should remember the following:

• Bring proof of service as it is typically required to redeem offers, so make sure to bring a military ID, VA card, or other documentation.
• Check Participation: Some offers are available only at participating locations, so call ahead or check online to ensure the location near you is honoring the deal.
• Verify Offer Times: Most promotions are available on Nov. 11, but times vary, and some restaurants have specific hours for their offers.

Veterans Day 2026 food deals

Applebee's

Applebee's is offering veterans and active-duty military service members a special Veterans Day meal on Wednesday, November 11.  The offer is for dine-in only and does not include beverage and gratuity. Veterans and active-duty military simply show proof of military service. Proof of service includes U.S. Uniformed Services ID Card, U.S. Uniformed Services Retired ID Card, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), Veterans organization card (i.e., American Legion, VFW), photograph of yourself in uniform, wearing uniform, DD214 and citation or commendation. Limit 1 meal per U.S. Veteran or Active-Duty Military.

Bar Louie

At Bar Louie, veterans and active-duty military receive a free burger November 10 to 11, excluding the Big Louie. Upgrade to the Impossible Burger for $4. Must show military ID to receive offer. Available for dine-in only.

Biscuit Belly

At Biscuit Belly, enjoy your choice of Bacon Egg & Cheese, Sausage Egg & Cheese, or Chicken Biscuit sandwich plus hot drip coffee or fountain drink; dine-in only, all locations. 

BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse  

On Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11, BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse is thanking current and former military members with a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie with dine-in at all locations. The thank-you continues from November 12 through December 14 with a free appetizer with the purchase of any regular-priced entrée. 

Bob Evans 

Bob Evans is honoring those who serve.  On Veterans Day, November 11, 2026, veterans and active-duty military receive a free meal from their special Veterans Day menu. The offer is dine-in only and is not valid with other offers, discounts or coupons.  Beverages and gratuity not included. Tax additional where applicable.

Veterans and active duty military show proof of military service, which includes: 

• US Uniformed Services ID Card
• US Uniformed Services Retired Card
• Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES)
• Veterans organization card (e.g., American Legion, VFW)
• Photograph of yourself in uniform, wearing uniform
• DD214 and citation or commendation

Bombshells

At Bombshells on Veterans Day, Nov 11, veterans eat free and active-duty service members get 20% off, dine-in only. To redeem the offer, simply present one valid form of military identification, such as a U.S. Uniformed Services or Retired ID Card, a current Leave and Earnings Statement, a veterans organization card (like the American Legion or VFW), or a military discharge form (DD214). 

Bonefish Grill  

Bonefish Grill is inviting veterans, active-duty and retired military members, first responders and their families to join them for dinner on November 11 and make the evening a little more special for those who give so much.

As a thank-you, guests can enjoy a complimentary order of our signature Bang Bang Shrimp and a nonalcoholic beverage at any Bonefish Grill location. 

Chili's 

At Chili's on November 11, 2026, all veterans and active military members can get a free meal. Available in-restaurant only for select items. Please call ahead to your local Chili's if you have any questions. 

Chipotle 

On Veterans Day, Chipotle is honoring active-duty service members and veterans with free chips and their choice of guac, Queso Blanco or salsa with a $5 purchase. Guests can choose between Chipotle’s classic chips or new Chili Lime Chips. Must show valid proof of military or veteran status — valid military ID, VA-issued veteran ID/health ID, a state-issued ID with a Veteran designation or discharge paperwork — at checkout. 

Circle K  

At Circle K, veterans and current armed service members can get a free medium hot or iced coffee on Nov. 11, 2026 with a military ID.

Dave & Buster's

Veterans and active-duty military personnel can enjoy unlimited gameplay all day at Dave & Buster's with a valid military or veteran ID. Gameplay does not earn tickets and excludes purple swipe games. Veterans and active-duty military personnel can enjoy a complimentary dessert during their visit and, beyond Veterans Day, Dave & Buster’s offers veterans and active-duty military personnel 15% off food and beverages every day, all year long. 

Denny's

On Veterans Day, November 11, Denny's is offering active, non-active, and retired military personnel a free Original Grand Slam in honor of those who have served the nation.  Free Original Grand Slam on Nov. 11, 2026 from 5am-noon local time. Includes active, non-active and retired military personnel. Dine in only. Must show valid Military ID or DD-214. At participating Denny’s restaurants. Selection and prices may vary. Not valid for online orders. While supplies last. Beverage not included. No substitutions. 

Einstein Bros. Bagels

Einstein Bros. Bagels is offering veterans and active-duty military a free coffee and bagel & shmear, all day on Wednesday, Nov. 11, in honor of Veterans Day. The offer includes any size hot or iced coffee and any bagel with any shmear at participating Einstein Bros. Bagels locations. Guests must mention the offer when ordering in the bakery. Valid in bakery only, no loyalty membership, reward or digital offer required.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill  

On Veterans Day, November 11, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill is thanking active and retired military guests with a Buy One, Get One Free entrée offer, available in restaurants only. Guests can enjoy signature wood-fired favorites like Roasted Garlic Sirloin, Firebirds Roasted Chicken, Baby Back Ribs, Wood Grilled Salmon, and Shrimp & Grits.  

Firehouse Subs   

For Veterans Day, Firehouse Subs is offering an in-store-only BOGO: Buy any sub, any size, and get one free sub deal for all veterans and active-duty military personnel with a valid military ID. Firehouse Subs was founded by firefighters, and its Public Safety Foundation also supports military veterans 

Ford's Garage 

Ford's Garage is honoring U.S. military veterans and active-duty service members with a complimentary meal at participating restaurants nationwide on November 11, 2026, at participating Ford's Garage locations for dine-in only. Valid state or federal service identification required. One offer per eligible veteran or active-duty military member.  
Eligible guests can enjoy their choice of:

• A free American Standard Burger entrée, a classic Ford's Garage favorite.
• Up to $16 off any other entrée on the menu.

Golden Corral 

Golden Corral is honoring veterans with a Military Appreciation Night.  On Wednesday, November 11, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until close at participating Golden Corral restaurants, all veterans, active duty, reserves, and National Guard members will receive a free "Thank You" dinner.  Dine-in only. 

Honey Dew Donuts

On Wednesday, November 11, Honey Dew is once again proud to honor the brave men and women who have served our country with a small gesture of gratitude, a free coffee (any size) for all Veterans, available at Honey Dew locations on Veterans Day. Find a Location Near You

Hot Dog on a Stick 

On Veterans Day, Hot Dog on a Stick is honoring those who have served by offering a free 16 oz. Original Lemonade for veterans and active-duty military members at participating locations nationwide.  The offer can be redeemed in-store with a valid military ID. No purchase is necessary.

In-N-Out Burger  

On Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11, In-N-Out Burger will is showing its appreciation for all Veterans, Active Duty Military, Reserves, and National Guard, by offering a complimentary meal, including any burger, fries, and beverage on In-N-Out Burger’s menu. All current and former members of the U.S. military will also receive a special-edition Veterans Day decal.

U.S. veterans and active duty military are respectfully asked to present proof of military service to receive the complimentary made-to-order meal of choice offered at all In-N-Out Burger locations.

Lazy Dog Restaurants  

On November 11, Lazy Dog is honoring active-duty military, veterans, retirees and reserve and National Guard members with a complimentary Fireside Favorites entrée, personal-sized dessert and soda. Guests can choose from six entrées: Fried Chicken Dinner, Grilled Shrimp Tacos, Fettuccine Alfredo, All-American Burger, Mediterranean Chicken and the new Honey Miso Chicken.  

Logan's Roadhouse   

Logan's Roadhouse is saving a seat for those who've served this Veterans Day, and lunch is on the house. On Wednesday, Nov. 11, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., veterans and active-duty military members can enjoy a free entrée from a special five-item menu featuring mesquite-grilled Steak Tips, BBQ Grilled Pork Chop, Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders, Chopped Steak and the All-American Cheeseburger. The offer is valid for dine-in only with military ID or proof of service at participating corporate-operated restaurants.

LongHorn Steakhouse

On Nov. 11, LongHorn Steakhouse is thanking veterans and active-duty service members with a special thank-you: 10% off your meal plus a free appetizer or dessert. No coupon to print and no code to enter — just show valid military ID and the discount is applied to your check at participating locations.  Find the closest location at LongHornSteakhouse.com.

Metro Diner  

Metro Diner is showing its appreciation on Veterans Day with 50% off a meal for active-duty and retired military members with a valid military ID. Guests can enjoy home-style favorites like Iron City Meatloaf, Chicken Pot Pie and the diner's famous Fried Chicken & Waffles. Metro Diner also honors veterans year-round with a 10% discount.

Miami Grill  

Miami Grill is saluting veterans and military service members with 20% off their meal at participating locations. Guests can enjoy signature favorites, including Philly cheese steaks, juicy burgers, crispy wings and more. Proof of military service required. Discount applies to the eligible military member's meal only. Not valid for delivery, app or online orders

Pluckers

On Wednesday, November 11, veterans and active-duty military can enjoy a free meal at all 34 Pluckers locations across Texas. The meal includes an entrée and side, up to a $17 value, with a valid ID.

Potawatomi Casino Hotel  

On Wednesday, November 11, Potawatomi Casino Hotel in Milwaukee invites all active-duty military personnel and veterans to enjoy a complimentary drip coffee and pastry at Cream City Coffee Co. located near the skywalk, along with one free order of street tacos from Taco Spot located in Marketplace. Eligible guests must show proof of service to redeem the offer.

Red Robin  

Red Robin is thanking veterans and active-duty military this Veterans Day with a complimentary meal. Veterans and active-duty military members with a valid military ID or proof of service can receive a Red’s Big Tavern Burger with a bottomless side on Nov. 11, at participating Red Robin locations with valid military ID for dine-in only.

In addition, throughout November, guests can participate in Red Robin’s "Buy a Veteran a Gift Card" program by purchasing a gift card at participating restaurants, which will be donated to local veteran organizations to provide meals for veterans in communities across the country.

Ruby Tuesday

At Ruby Tuesday, U.S. veterans and all active-duty, Reserve and National Guard service members get a free Everyday Fresh Meal by showing proof of military service. That includes a choice of one of 13 select entrées + The Garden Bar + a bottomless drink. Valid Wednesday, November 11, 2026, for dine-in only at participating locations.

Smoothie King

At Smoothie King, veterans and active-duty military personnel who present a valid active military ID can enjoy a FREE 20 oz. delicious and nutritious smoothie of their choice from three fan favorites: Strawberry X-Treme, Blueberry Heaven or Vanilla Slim-N-Trim.

Sonny's BBQ 

In honor of Veterans Day, Sonny’s BBQ is showing its appreciation for those who have served by offering veterans a FREE Pork Big Deal on November 11. The meal includes a pulled or sliced pork sandwich served on a bun or garlic bread, a choice of Sidekick (side dish), and a drink.

Yardbird  

To honor veterans for their service, Yardbird is offering a complimentary appetizer to any veteran who dines in on November 11 with a valid military ID. 

Veterans Day 2026 Discounts  

Academy Sports

From Oct. 30 to Nov. 11, 2016, at Academy Sports + Outdoos, military and first responders can take 10% off their entire purchase online or in‑store. To redeem the offer, you must verify your status with ID.me.  The discount is not valid on YETI products, deer corn, clearance, hot deals, licenses, services, gift cards, sales tax, shipping & handling, exchanges, store credit, previous purchases, and more.  

All Seasons Uniforms

All Seasons Uniforms, a leading provider of uniforms and professional apparel across a wide range of industries, is offering military veterans a 10% discount on everything from corporate apparel to workwear. 

Great Clips  

Each year on Nov. 11, Great Clips provides veterans and active service members a free haircut, or a free haircut card for a future visit. Service members and veterans can visit any U.S. Great Clips salon for a free haircut and non-military customers can visit a salon on November 11 and receive a free haircut card to give to a service member or veteran as a way of saying thank you. Find a salon

Legoland Florida 

LEGOLAND Florida Resort is offering military, veterans, law enforcement officers, emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, EMTs, firefighters, FREE entry to LEGOLAND Florida.  In addition, save 50% on tickets for up to 6 guests visiting with the service member. 
The offer is valid for visits from October 1–November 30, 2026.

Target

From Nov. 5–11, Target is offering military community members 20% off store wide.  To use the offer, you must verify your military status through the Target Circle Military Appreciation program.

Tractor Supply

On Veterans Day, November 11, Tractor Supply Company's Hometown Heroes Days recognizes military service members and veterans with a 10% discount in stores and online.  The Hometown Heroes extends beyond these special days. Through Tractor Supply’s Neighbor’s Club rewards program, verified military service members, veterans and first responders receive automatic Preferred Plus Neighbor status, including 2% back on everyday purchases, free shipping on orders over $29 and three quarterly reward credits that can be used toward a delivery, trailer rental or pet wash.

Walgreens

In celebration of Veterans Day, Walgreens is proud to recognize veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families with 20% off eligible regular-priced items in-store nationwide.  This offer is available in stores Nov. 8 – 11 for customers with a valid military ID or proof of service who are members of myWalgreens.   

On Veterans Day, Nov. 11, Walgreens stores and pharmacies will operate during their regular business hours. Customers can visit Walgreens store locator to confirm hours for their local store and pharmacy. 

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