Veterans Day 2025 Freebies & Free Meals: What’s Happening Today and How to Claim the Best Deals

Bassyonni

ago 2 hours

Veterans Day 2025

Veterans Day is today, Tuesday, November 11, 2025—a federal holiday honoring U.S. military veterans. That means government offices, banks and post offices are closed, while most restaurants and retailers remain open and many are offering Veterans Day 2025 freebies and free meals for veterans and active-duty service members. Below is a clean, up-to-the-minute guide to the most notable Veterans Day deals and how to use them quickly and confidently.

When is Veterans Day 2025 and who is it for?

Date: Today, Nov. 11, 2025 (observed on the calendar date every year).
Who qualifies: Typically veterans, active-duty, Reservists, National Guard, and often military spouses (spouse eligibility varies by brand).
Proof of service: Bring a military ID, VA card, state ID with veteran designation, or DD-214. Some locations accept a uniform, citation, or other proof—bring more than one form if you can.

Headline Free Meals & Drinks (Nationwide Chains)

Availability and hours vary by location; dine-in vs. takeout rules differ. Check local participation before you go.

Applebee’s – Free full-size entrée from a Veterans Day menu for dine-in with proof of service.
Chili’s – One free meal from a select Veterans Day menu, dine-in only.
Olive Garden – Free entrée from a special Veterans Day menu for dine-in; beverages and gratuity not included.
IHOP – Free Red, White & Blueberry Pancake Combo, generally 7 a.m.–7 p.m. for dine-in at participating locations.
Dunkin’ – Free donut for veterans and active-duty at participating shops (usually one per guest, while supplies last).
Krispy Kreme – Free doughnut and coffee in shop at participating locations (no purchase required).
Starbucks – Free tall brewed coffee (hot or iced) for veterans, service members, and military spouses at participating U.S. cafés.
Chipotle – BOGO entrée for veterans and active-duty, typically 4–8 p.m. in-store with valid ID.
Buffalo Wild Wings – 10 free boneless wings (offer details vary; many locations require dine-in).
Texas Roadhouse – Free meal voucher distributed today (Nov. 11) for veterans and service members; vouchers can be redeemed through spring 2026 for dine-in or carry-out at participating restaurants.

More popular stops offering freebies or specials

Denny’s – Many locations offer a free Original Grand Slam for dine-in during morning hours.
Red Robin – Free Big Tavern Burger with bottomless side for dine-in at participating locations.
California Pizza Kitchen, Chicken Salad Chick, Cicis, Smoothie King, Firehouse Subs, White Castle – Numerous offers ranging from a free entrée or buffet to select free items or BOGO. Ask in-store for local details.

“Near Me” tips: finding the closest free Veterans Day meals fast

Call ahead: Even when a chain is participating nationally, franchisees may set different hours or menu limits.
Ask about eligibility: Some offers extend to military spouses; others are service-member only.
Confirm dine-in vs. takeout: Quite a few deals are dine-in only.
Go early: Popular promotions run out—especially donuts, coffee and breakfast items.
Bring ID + backup: A second proof (e.g., VA card and state ID with “Veteran”) speeds verification.
Tip well: Gratuity isn’t covered by promotions; consider tipping on the full pre-discount value.

Frequently searched today

Is today Veterans Day? Yes—Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025.
Is Veterans Day a federal holiday? Yes. Government offices, banks, and USPS are closed; most restaurants and retailers are open.
What time do restaurants serve Veterans Day menus? Varies widely. Breakfast deals often end by noon; many lunch/dinner offers run standard hours or have windows (e.g., 4–8 p.m.).
Can family eat free too? Usually no—most deals apply only to the eligible veteran or service member (some exceptions exist; ask locally).
Do I need to be in uniform? Not required at most places, but proof of service is.

Quick plan for maximizing Veterans Day 2025 freebies

Breakfast: Hit IHOP for the free Pancake Combo or grab a free donut at Dunkin’ and a free coffee at Krispy Kreme or Starbucks.
Lunch: Choose a sit-down free entrée at Olive Garden or Chili’s.
Afternoon/Early evening: Use Chipotle’s BOGO window (4–8 p.m.) to cover dinner for two.
Anytime today: Stop by Texas Roadhouse to pick up your meal voucher for later use if your schedule’s tight.

To every veteran and military family: thank you. If a location is crowded or a staff member isn’t sure of the policy, patience helps—today’s surge can be intense. With proof of service in hand and a short plan, you’ll be able to make the most of Veterans Day 2025 freebies and free meals near you.