Veterans Day Free Meals 2024 | Military, Retirees, Restaurants

Veterans Day free meals are a way many restaurants honor and thank active duty and military veterans for their service.

Veterans Day is celebrated on Monday, November 11, 2024 and is a federal holiday. Veterans Day should be a 3 day weekend for most federal employees, including military servicemembers.

Veterans Day celebrates the service and sacrifice of all U.S. military veterans. Whether you are retired, separated, active duty, guard, reserves – this day is for you! Thank you for answering the call of a grateful nation.

Many restaurants and companies thank our veterans and active duty military personnel for their service with a free meal or discounts. This year Veterans Day falls on a Friday.

Other military discount include:

• Veterans Day Deals Near Me
• Veterans Day free meals from restaurants like Applebee's, Chili's, Dunkin', and TGI Friday's
• How to get Veterans Day free meals and freebies
• Target Veterans Day Discount

Best Veterans Day Free Meals for Active Duty & Veterans

Many thanks to all the restaurants and companies who choose to offer free meals, discounts, and deals to America's veterans. On behalf of all US military servicemembers, thank you for your tangible support!

Here is a huge list of all the 2024 Veterans Day freebies I could find.

Please share with your friends and family so they can enjoy a Monday Veterans Day free meal!

Printable List of Veterans Day Free Meals 2024

I will make the 10 page PDF printable list of Veterans Day free meals available when we get closer to Veterans Day weekend.

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza

No update in 2024. On November 11, 2023, veterans and active duty military recieved a free 12″ cheese pizza.

Applebee's Veterans Day Free Meals for Veterans

For the 17th consecutive year, Applebee's is offering Veterans and Active Duty Military a special Veterans Day meal on Monday 11/11/24, where they can select from delicious entrées at Applebee’s across the country (Dine-in only). Stay tuned for news and updates.

Biscuit Belly

Veterans Eat Free on Monday, November 11, 2024 with choice of Bacon Egg & Cheese, Sausage Egg & Cheese, or Chicken Biscuit Sandwich and a hot drip coffee or fountain drink. All Biscuit Belly locations are participating, dine in only. 

Free Veterans Day Meal at Biscuit Belly- Honoring Our Heroes

BJ's Restaurants

On Saturday, November 11, 2024, receive a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie® for dine-in only on 11/11/2024

Must present Military ID or other proof of service.

Current and former military who dine with us on 11/11/2024 can receive a free appetizer coupon on their next visit.†

More info on BJ's Restaurant Veterans Day Deal.

Bob Evans

Bob Evans is providing a comforting meal to veterans and active-duty military. On November 11, 2024 they are offering a special menu of seven homestyle favorites available to veterans and active duty military FREE* at their local Bob Evans Restaurant. See menu and full details here.

Bone Fish Grill

Year round, Bonefish Grill offers a 10% off “heroes discount” to service members, veterans and first responders.

Boston Market

No update for 2024. Last year, Boston Market offered a buy one individual meal with a drink and get a second free deal at all U.S. locations; coupon (but no I.D.) is required and available at BostonMarket.com.

Available for all Veterans, service members and their families. No ID required.

Bruegger's Bagels

As a token of our appreciation, active duty service members, reservists, veterans, and military spouses with valid ID are invited to enjoy a FREE bagel with cream cheese on Monday, November 11th, 2024.

At participating bakeries only. No purchase necessary.

Buffalo Wild Wings

No official update for 2024. Last year, Buffalo Wild Wings offered a free order of 10 Boneless Wings and Fries on Nov. 11.

Buffalo Wings & Rings

No update for 2024 yet.

California Pizza Kitchen

California Pizza Kitchen is honoring U.S. veterans and active-duty service members this Veterans Day with a complimentary entrée and drink from a prix fixe menu available only on Monday, November 11, 2024 when dining in.

You'll need to come in uniform or bring your military ID or another proof of service to redeem this offer.You'll need to come in uniform or bring your military ID or another proof of service to redeem this offer.

Casey's

In November, Casey’s is holding a giving campaign benefiting veteran’s organizations Hope For The Warriors and Fallen Patriots, and each year we are humbled by the overwhelming gratitude and response from our team members and guests. We also provide a free cup of coffee to veterans when they shop in our stores on Veterans Day, and free car washes where available.

And starting last year, Casey’s extends the same offer year-round to active military personnel and on-duty, uniformed first responders – including law enforcement, fire and EMS.   

Chick-Fil-A

No official update for 2024 yet. Because each restaurant is owned and operated by local franchise owners, any available discounts are at the discretion of the Operator and vary by location. Please contact your local Chick-fil-A^® restaurant for more information. You can find their contact information using the restaurant locator.

Chili's

Chili's is offering a FREE* Veterans Day meal as a small way to honor your service and the sacrifices you’ve made for our country.

Valid only on 11/11/2024. Military ID required to redeem offer. No substitutions. Cannot be combined with other offers. Offer only available for dine-in from limited menu. Beverages and gratuity not included.

Chipotle

No official update for 2024.

Cici's PIzza

Veterans and Active-Duty Military eat free this Veterans Day 11/11/2024! See full details.

Cracker Barrel

No official update for 2024. Cracker Barrel offered multiple deals last year for U.S. veterans, active duty military and supporting guests, including a complimentary slice of Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola® Cake with in-store purchase.

Denny's

Denny’s invites active and retired military personnel to America’s Diner to enjoy a complimentary Original Grand Slam® breakfast at participating locations nationwide*.The iconic favorite, featuring two delicious and fluffy buttermilk pancakes, two crispy strips of our new and improved thicker, crispier applewood smoked bacon, two all-pork sausage links, and two eggs cooked to order, will be served dine-in only, from 5 a.m. (store open) to noon on Monday, November 11, 2024.

Veterans and active-duty military can present with a valid military ID or DD 214 to receive this offer.

Dickey's BBQ Pit

No official update for 2024. Last year, Dickey's offered veterans and active-duty military get a free Pulled Pork Sandwich!

Dunkin'

No official update for 2024. Last year, Dunkin' Donuts gave away free donuts to active duty military and veterans.

Be sure to check participation at your local Dunkin’ Donuts!

Famous Dave's

No official update for 2024 yet. Last year, the Veterans Day free meal at Famous Dave's was a Georgia chopped pork sandwich plus one side.

Farmer Boys

Farmer Boys is proud to honor the men and women who have served our country and on Monday, November 11th, Farmer Boys is thanking veterans for their service and dedication by offering a FREE Big Cheese® burger to all veterans and active duty military personnel.

The Big Cheese® features a ¼ lb fresh, never frozen beef patty, American cheese, crisp lettuce, freshly sliced tomato, dill pickles, diced onions, and house-made thousand island dressing on a locally baked premium brioche bun. The offer is valid for dine-in only with proof of service and is limited to one per service member.

This Veterans Day special will be available at participating locations while supplies last and cannot be combined with any other discounts, coupons, or advertised specials. For over 40 years, Farmer Boys has been dedicated to delivering fresh-cooked, made-to-order meals using the highest quality ingredients sourced from local farms. In addition to their award-winning burgers, they also offer all-day breakfast, hand-chopped salads, and delicious sandwiches. It’s a perfect opportunity for you to enjoy a fresh meal and celebrate Veterans Day with Farmer Boys.

Food & Fire BBQ Taphouse

Any active, inactive, or retired personnel can enjoy a hearty 50% off on ALL meals!

Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers

Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers^® will honor our nation's Veterans and current military personnel on Veterans Day, Monday, November 11, 2024 with a free Freddy's combo meal card that is suitable for any combo meal. No purchase is necessary to receive this special offer. Cards may be redeemed through December 31, 2024. See details.

Friendly's

No official update for 2024 yet. Last year, Friendly's offered a free all-American meal on Veterans Day between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. The meal includes an All-American Cheeseburger, a side of fries, and a drink. A valid military ID is required.

Golden Corral

Golden Corral© is proud of the U.S. military members who defend our country and our rights. We honor them every year with a special thank you dinner on our Military Appreciation Night.

To date, we have served over 6 million free meals to our active duty and retired military heroes. But our commitment does not stop there. Over the past 20 years, Golden Corral© restaurants and their guests together have raised over $17.5 million dollars for Disabled American Veterans.

We’re proud to have honored our active and former military members for over 20 years through Military Appreciation Night, and are looking forward to the celebration this year! 

Military Appreciation Night will be held on Monday, November 13 from 5pm – close. We will once again be honoring our military heroes with a free “thank you” meal.Military Appreciation Dinner– free meal for anyone who served in the US Military (retirees, veterans, active duty, National Guard or Reserves). More info

Hooters

All active and retired military can choose a complimentary meal from our special menu on 11/11. 🫡

Offer valid on November 11, 2024 at participating locations only. Military ID or proof of service required. Dine in only.

Houlihan’s

No official update for 2024 yet. Last year, Veterans, active duty military and military families got $10 off a $30 food purchase at participating locations on November 11. This offer is valid for in restaurant dining or for carryout.

Hoss’s Steak and Sea House

Hoss’s Steak and Sea House locations will offer veterans and active-duty military personnel a free soup, salad, bread, nacho, and dessert bar and iced tea on Nov. 11. This applies to dine-in only. In addition, veterans will receive a $10 off $40 voucher to be used on a future visit in the month of November, while supplies last. Patrons must show proof of military service to be eligible. See details.

Visit the Hoss's Steak and Sea House for locations.

IHOP

Veterans and Active Military, enjoy a FREE Red, White, & Blueberry Pancake Combo on Monday, November 11, from 7AM-7PM.

Dine-In only, 1 per guest. Restrictions apply. Military ID or proof of service required. See details.

Joe’s Crab Shack

No official update for 2024 yet. Last year, veterans enjoyed 20% off their meal when they dined-in.

Krispy Kreme

No official update for 2024 yet. Veterans and active-duty military got a free breakfast at Krispy Kreme that includes a doughnut of choice and a small coffee.

LongHorn Steakhouse

No official update for 2024 yet.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants

Veterans of the U.S. Military, National Guard, Gold Star Parents, Gold Star Spouses and Active Military can enjoy a select half-priced entrée on Sunday, November 10, 2024. See full menu and make reservation here.

McDonalds

All former, active duty, and military families can receive a Free Breakfast Combo during breakfast hours on Monday, Nov. 11. 

The offer includes one Free Breakfast Combo, including a Hash Brown and Any Size Soft Drink, Tea, or Premium Roast Coffee during breakfast hours. The offer is valid with military ID.*

HAWAII- McDonald’s of Hawaii is thanking all veterans and active duty military by providing a FREE breakfast sandwich of their choice. Hawaii’s veterans and active duty military members need to present their valid military ID to receive the offer. Active duty military in uniform can also receive the offer without an ID. The offer is specific to McDonald’s of Hawaii.

The offer is only valid during breakfast hours on Veterans Day, Monday, Nov. 11 via the drive-thru and takeout at McDonald’s of Hawaii restaurants. It is not available via McDelivery or the McDonald’s app. No purchase is necessary. Must be present to receive the offer

McGrath Fish House

No official update for 2024 yet. On Veterans Day, McGrath's Fish House offered a free meal to veterans and active-duty military. Patrons must present a valid military ID or proof of service to qualify. The offer applies only to items on a special menu.

Mission BBQ

On November 11, Mission BBQ salutes all veterans and active duty military, remembering their proud history and continued duty to keep Our Country free.

This Veterans Day come in for a FREE Sandwich as a small thank you for your service. Be there at noon for their live rendition of Our National Anthem!

MOD Pizza

No official update for 2024 yet.

Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub

This Veterans Day, Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub invites all veterans and active duty military to enjoy a complimentary lunch as a thank-you for their service.

On November 11, from opening to 5 p.m., veterans and active duty military can receive a free lunch from the Veterans Day menu with purchase of any entree. See full menu and details.

Alongside this special Veterans Day offer, veterans and active-duty military personnel can enjoy a special 10% discount simply by presenting a military ID whenever they enjoy a meal at the Nines.

Olive Garden

No update for 2024 yet. Last year, Olive Garden offered a free entrée from a special menu. Entrées are served with unlimited soup or house salad and garlic bread sticks.

On the Border

No update for 2024 yet. Last year, veterans and current service members received a free Pick-2 Combo Meal.

Dine-in only, proof of service required. Participating locations only.

Outback Steakhouse

No official update for 2024 yet. Last year, Outback Steakhouse offered active and retired military members a free Bloomin' Onion and beverage with the purchase of an adult entree.

Pilot Flying J

No official update for 2024 yet. Last year, servicemembers and their families verified through ID.me in the myRewards Plus app will received a free meal credit, valued up to $12. 

Red Lobster

Red Lobster is offering FREE Veteran’s Shrimp & Chips* – featuring six Walt's Favorite Shrimp, served with cocktail sauce and ketchup, as well as crispy French Fries and Coleslaw – on Monday, November 11^th. Guests only need to show a valid military ID or proof of service to redeem this dine-in only offer.

Additionally, Red Lobster shows appreciation for Veterans every day by offering 10% off their check** when dining in-restaurant, with proof of service or valid Military ID.

Red Robin

Dine in at Red Robin on Veterans Day 11/11 and you'll get a FREE* Red’s Big Tavern Burger featuring our NEW thicker, juicier burger, topped with Red’s Secret Tavern Sauce, American cheese, lettuce and tomato on a toasted brioche bun — served with Bottomless Steak Fries!

Romano's Macaroni Grill

No official update for 2024 yet. Free Mom’s Ricotta Meatballs and Spaghetti for Veterans and current military members. Must show proof of service.

Ruby Tuesday’s

Ruby Tuesday's is offering a choice of a Free American Smashed Burger, Ruby’s Cheeseburger, or Endless Garden Bar Entree per U.S. Veteran or Active Duty Military by simply showing proof of military service. Valid Monday, 11/11/24 for DINE-IN ONLY with code HERO24.

Valid only at participating locations. Excludes Guam, Hawaii, and airport locations.

Shoney's

U.S. Veterans and active-duty military get ready to indulge in our FREE Breakfast Fresh Food Bar OR All-American Burger this Veterans Day! 🎉 See details.

Choice of one free meal per guest on November 11. ​

Smashburger

No official update for 2024 yet. Last year, Smashburger offered a FREE Burger or Sandwich when you show a valid military ID in store on November 11th.

Sonny's BBQ

Veterans can enjoy a free Pork Big Deal* on Veterans Day, which is Monday, November 11, 2024. A Pork Big Deal comes with a pulled or sliced pork sandwich on garlic bread or a bun, and you get to add on your pick of a Sidekick and drink. 

We’ve partnered with ID.me for this Veterans Day Offer, so all you need to do is head to the special page on our website. We’ve got everything you need to know there for you, including a link to Verify with ID.me. There are also helpful links to check your eligibility. 

Starbucks Veterans Day

Starbucks is honoring those who have served with a free tall (12-ounce) brewed coffee (hot or iced) for Veterans, military service members and military spouses at participating U.S. Starbucks stores and licensed locations.*

In addition, Starbucks is donating $200,000, shared evenly, to the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and Wounded Warrior Project to support the Veteran and military communities.

Sugarfire Smoke House

No official update for 2024 yet. Last year, Sugarfire Smoke House offered active-duty and retired military members a free cheeseburger special.

Tap House Grill

No official update for 2024 yet. Complimentary meal on Veterans Day. For service members and Veterans with proof of service. Dine-in only.

Texas de Brazil

No official update for 2024 yet. Last year, Texas de Brazil offered 25% off for up to 6 Veterans or active duty military per table/reservation. Restrictions apply. See websites for participating dates and locations.

Texas Roadhouse

Veterans and active-duty service members can choose from a select menu of delicious entrees from 11am-2pm, including the 6 oz. USDA Choice Sirloin Steak, Country Fried Chicken, Pulled Pork Dinner, and more, all served with two sides and a soft drink, tea, or coffee. It’s a heartfelt gesture from Texas Roadhouse to express gratitude and respect for the men and women who have served our country.

TGI Friday's

No official update for 2024 yet. Free lunch for active duty military and Veterans on Veterans Day. Valid ID or proof of service required. Dine-in only at participating locations.

Be sure to contact your local T.G.I Friday’s for details.

Toby Keith's I Love This Bar and Grill

No official update for 2024 yet.

Twin Peaks

Dine-in on November 11th and receive a free lunch from 11am-3pm. The lodge loves our current and former military members, and you can feast on four epic options free of charge.

• Cheeseburger & Fries
• Smoked Chicken Street Tacos
• Chicken Tenders & Fries
• Chicken or Shrimp Caesar Salad

Village Inn

No update for 2024 yet.

Wendy's

Wendy’s salutes those who served or are currently serving in the U.S. military with a free Breakfast Combo, no purchase required*, during breakfast hours on Monday, November 11.   

Choose from any of Wendy’s breakfast combos like a savory Sausage Egg & Cheese English Muffin, a hearty Breakfast Baconator, or a craveable Honey Buddy Chicken Biscuit Combo! Each combo comes complete with small seasoned potatoes and a beverage. 

Fans can visit participating Wendy’s location on Veterans Day, Monday, November 11 during breakfast hours and receive their free breakfast combo by notifying the crew member at the register or showing their WeSalute+ card, no military ID required! 

Through WendyMail, WeSalute members enrolled in VetRewards are eligible to receive our exclusive offers for patriotic holidays, including Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Patriot Day and Veterans Day. In addition to our current WendyMail printable coupons, our new offers will provide WeSalute members extra savings year-round.

Yard House

Veterans and active duty military will receive a complimentary appetizer on November 11, 2024! Dine-in only.

Credit Cards that Waive Annual Fees for Active Duty Military

Did you know Chase waives the annual fees on their best credit cards for US active duty servicemembers and military spouses? They do this every day, not just on Veterans Day.

This annual fee waiver includes ultra exclusive cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® Card.

Chase Sapphire Reserve^® Card
Learn how to apply on our partner's secure site

• $550 annual fee waived to $0 for US military + spouses with Chase MLA policy
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually.
• 3x Points on other Travel (airfare, hotels) after earning the $300 travel credit
• 3x Dining restaurants, takeouts, delivery
• Chase Ultimate Reward Points redeemed through Chase Travel℠ are worth 1.5 cents, a 50% bonus.
• Priority Pass lounge and restaurant access with over 1300+ airport lounges worldwide
• Up to $120 application fee credit for Global Entry every 4 years
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Primary coverage with Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• No foreign transaction fees, Member FDIC
• Learn more in the Chase Sapphire Reserve review

If you're going out to dine out this Veterans Day, why not get a card that earns 3x points on restaurants, delivery, and takeout.

I can teach you how to maximize your military credit card fee waivers in my 100% free Ultimate Military Credit Cards Course course.

If you want me to email you the details on American Express military benefits, drop in your email below. I'll just send you one email only. No spam, no newsletter. Just one email with all the details.

You can also check out the best credit cards for military veterans.

How to Get Veterans Day Free Meals

Before you go, remember four things.

1. You will need some form of ID. Most companies require some form of military ID before giving you the discount. Usually a military ID card (Common Access Card, or CAC), Retired ID card, VA ID Card, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) pay stub, drivers license with veterans designation, DD214, discharge paperwork, veterans organization card (i.e., American Legion, VFW), photograph of yourself in uniform, a citation or commendation, or going in uniform while be sufficient.
2. Not all locations participate. While the overall franchise or corporation may offer a Veterans Day free meal or discount, a specific location may not participate. It never hurts to call ahead and ask before you're seated so you are not surprised when the check comes.
3. Leave a nice tip! Tipping is the worst and tipping culture is sexist, racist, and classist, but that's an argument for another day. Until I complete my life long goal to get rid of tipping in the US, it's important to tip based on what the meal would have cost you before the discount.Don't stiff your waitress or waiter, they're still working just as hard whether your meal cost $100 or $0. Thank them with a nice tip!
4. This isn't a right or a privilege, but a gesture of thanks. Yes, we're all thankful for your service. If a corporation or restaurant chooses not to participate in the Veterans Day discounts or doesn't have the item you wanted available, don't throw a hissy fit. Please act like an adult. Be gracious and thankful that some organizations and companies are giving you a discount and celebrating your service on Veterans Day.

Please don't abuse this great benefit of military service that private organizations, companies, and business owners choose to give to us.

If you act entitled to perks like this, people will soon sour on giving them away. Be grateful, kind, and generous when you tip!

History of Veterans Day Free Meals

Veterans Day meals started as a tradition shortly after September 11, 2001 as a way to directly support, honor, and say “thanks” to America's military veterans.

Now, every November many companies and resturant offer freebies to active duty military and veterans. Free food for active duty, veterans, and military retirees is an easy way restaurants can give back to the military community. Enjoying a free meal on November 11th was a nice treat when I was a young lieutenant not making very much money.

Companies other than restaurants often offer a special early November military discount or freebies around November 11th. Veterans Day falls just a few weeks before Black Friday and only 6 weeks before Christmas. Companies are getting ready for the end of year sales.

A full list of the restaurants that give veterans free meals on Veterans Day 2023 include

• Applebee's
• BJ's Restaurants
• Bob Evans
• Bone Fish Grill
• Boston Market
• Bruegger's Bagels
• Buffalo Wild Wings
• California Pizza Kitchen
• Chili's
• Chipotle
• Cici's Pizza
• Cracker Barrel
• Denny's
• Dunkin'
• Famous Dave's
• Fogo de Chao
• Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers
• Freedbirds World Burrito
• Friendly's
• Golden Corral
• Hooters
• Houlihan’s
• IHOP
• Joe’s Crab Shack
• Krispy Kreme
• Krystal
• LongHorn Steakhouse
• McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurants
• McGrath Fish House
• Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub
• Olive Garden
• On the Border
• Outback Steakhouse
• Pilot Flying J
• Red Lobster
• Red Robin
• Romano's Macaroni Grill
• Ruby Tuesday’s
• Sonny's BBQ
• Starbucks
• Tap House Grill
• Texas de Brazil
• Texas Roadhouse
• TGI Friday's
• Toby Keith's I Love This Bar and Grill
• Twin Peaks
• Village Inn
• Yard House

Frequently Asked Questions