Americans across the nation will come together on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, to observe Veterans Day, a federal holiday dedicated to honoring all who have served in the US military. What began as a commemoration of the World War I armistice has evolved into a day of gratitude for both past and present military personnel.
Restaurant Offers and Free Meal Deals
Numerous restaurant chains and service providers are showing their appreciation by offering special promotions exclusively for veterans and active-duty military personnel. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of what's available:
Another Broken Egg Cafe is serving complimentary Patriot French Toast and coffee for veterans and active-duty personnel on November 11. This offer requires proof of service and is valid for dine-in customers only.
Applebee's provides a special Veterans Day menu where military personnel can select one free entrée. Options include the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger and Double Crunch Shrimp. The restaurant also offers a unique opportunity for customers to pre-purchase beer pints for veterans, with unclaimed pints benefiting local veterans' charities.
Krispy Kreme welcomes veterans and active-duty military with one free doughnut and a small hot or iced coffee. No purchase is necessary, and the offer is available both in-store and through drive-thru services, limited to one per person.
Texas Roadhouse takes a different approach by distributing free meal vouchers on Veterans Day that can be redeemed until May 30, 2026. These vouchers are valid for both dine-in and carry-out options at participating locations.
Yard House offers a complimentary appetizer for military personnel on November 11, with no purchase required. This dine-in exclusive is limited to one per eligible guest.
Hooters allows veterans to choose one free menu item from selected options including 10 Original Wings, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, Cheeseburger, or Chicken Caesar Salad, accompanied by a drink purchase for dine-in customers.
California Pizza Kitchen provides one free entrée from a special menu for veterans and active-duty personnel, requiring proof of service and available for dine-in only.
Outback Steakhouse celebrates both the US Marine Corps Birthday on November 10 and Veterans Day on November 11 by offering a free Aussie 3-Course Meal to those with valid military ID, exclusively for dine-in guests.
Panera Bread joins the tribute by offering free pastry or bakery items and coffee at over 145 locations, excluding loaves and not applicable for delivery or online orders.
Service and Retail Discounts
Beyond food establishments, several service providers are offering special deals for military community members:
AutoNation provides a 20% discount on automobile services for veterans, active-duty personnel, and their spouses, valid through November 16, 2025.
Great Clips offers veterans either a free haircut or a free haircut card that can be shared with another veteran.
Take 5 Oil Change extends a year-round 25% discount on oil changes for veterans and active-duty military at participating locations.
Veterans Day Parade and Historical Significance
The Department of Veterans Affairs notes that Veterans Day marks the anniversary of the World War I armistice that occurred at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. This historical significance continues to shape how Americans observe the day.
New York City will host the annual Veterans Day Parade beginning at 11 am ET along Fifth Avenue. The 2025 parade holds special importance as it commemorates the 250th anniversary of the US military, making it an especially significant celebration.
For those planning their day, Costco confirmed they will maintain normal business hours on Veterans Day, remaining open for shoppers.
The evolution of Veterans Day from commemorating the end of a specific war to honoring all military service members reflects the nation's enduring gratitude toward those who have served in uniform. The widespread participation of businesses and communities across America demonstrates the deep respect and appreciation for military personnel that continues to define this important national holiday.
