Veterans Day 2025: Businesses Celebrate with Free Meals and Discounts

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, honors the service and sacrifice of veterans from the U.S. Armed Forces. This year, numerous businesses across the country are offering special deals, discounts, and complimentary meals to show their appreciation for the sacrifices made by servicemen and women. These gestures continue a long-standing tradition of recognizing the contributions of those who have served in the military.

Originally known as Armistice Day, this holiday was established to commemorate the end of World War I on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. In 1938, Armistice Day was declared a federal holiday, and after both World War II and the Korean War, the holiday evolved to honor all American veterans. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation officially designating November 11 as Veterans Day.

Many restaurants and businesses are participating in this year’s observance by offering complimentary meals and discounts. For instance, Applebee’s is providing a free full-size entrée from a special Veterans Day menu to all active-duty and veteran military personnel dining in. This marks the 18th consecutive year that Applebee’s has celebrated Veterans Day in this manner, having served over 12.3 million free meals since the program’s inception.

Another Broken Egg Cafe is also joining the effort by inviting veterans and active-duty military personnel to enjoy a complimentary Patriot French Toast, served with Barista House Blend Coffee. This offer is valid for dine-in guests who present a valid military ID on November 11.

BJ’s Restaurants & Brewhouse will honor military members with a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie® on Veterans Day, while Bombshells Restaurant & Bar is offering free entrees to veterans across its Texas and Colorado locations, along with a 20% discount for active-duty military.

On the other hand, Bonefish Grill is providing veterans with a complimentary Bang Bang Shrimp and a non-alcoholic beverage. Buca di Beppo will offer a free lunch entrée from its specials menu to all veterans and active-duty personnel with valid identification.

Buffalo Wild Wings will give veterans and active military members 10 free Boneless Wings and Fries. Additionally, California Pizza Kitchen is inviting service members to enjoy a complimentary entrée from a special prix fixe menu, along with a buy-one-get-one bounce-back offer for future visits.

Many other establishments are contributing to the celebrations. For example, Denny’s is offering a free Original Grand Slam® from 5 a.m. to noon local time, while Texas Roadhouse will distribute meal vouchers for free meals from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., which can be redeemed through May 31, 2026.

These acts of gratitude extend beyond restaurants. Retailers such as Target and Publix are offering discounts to veterans and active military personnel during the Veterans Day weekend. Target is providing a 10% discount on all purchases from October 27 to November 11, while Publix is offering a similar discount on grocery purchases.

Starbucks has also pledged to support the military community by donating $200,000 to organizations like the USO and Wounded Warrior Project while offering veterans a free tall brewed coffee on November 11.

As Veterans Day approaches, these initiatives reflect a collective effort to honor the brave individuals who have served their country. The offers serve not only as a gesture of thanks but also as a reminder of the sacrifices made by many for the freedoms enjoyed today.