Veterans Day 2025 is set to bring a wave of exceptional deals and discounts. With offers spanning various categories, this year promises significant savings and benefits for veterans and their families.
Big Brands Are Giving Back
One of the biggest highlights of Veterans Day is the free food—and not just small bites or symbolic gestures. Some of the most popular restaurant chains across the country are offering real, satisfying meals at no cost, all to say thank you for your service.
Applebee’s leads the charge again in 2025, offering a free full-size entrée from a select Veterans Day menu. It’s available for both veterans and active-duty military. This is more than just an appetizer or dessert—it’s a proper meal you can sit down and enjoy. Just show proof of military service, and you’re good to go. It’s the kind of thank-you that doesn’t feel rushed or limited.
At Starbucks, military appreciation comes in the form of caffeine. You’ll get a free tall hot or iced coffee on November 11, whether you’re a veteran, active-duty member, or even a military spouse. That’s a welcome gesture, especially if you’re planning to stop in before hitting a parade, ceremony, or family event.
Buffalo Wild Wings is also stepping up with a great offer: a free order of boneless wings and fries for veterans and military personnel. Whether you’re dining in or just grabbing a bite between errands, this one’s a fan favorite year after year—and for good reason. It’s a legit meal, not just a sample-size portion.
Retail Discounts You Can Actually Use
It’s not all about the food—some of the biggest savings this year are happening in retail, with nationwide stores offering military-exclusive discounts on everything from home improvement supplies to health essentials.
Lowe’s continues its long-standing support for veterans through its Military Discount Program. This deal gives you 10% off your purchases in-store and online, but you do need to register through Lowe’s website to get verified. Once that’s done, the savings are automatic. Whether you're upgrading tools, tackling home repairs, or picking up seasonal décor, that 10% can go a long way.
Tractor Supply Co. is another great stop. On Veterans Day only, they’re offering 10% off in-store purchases to military members and veterans. It’s a straightforward discount, no hassle, and it works on everything from workwear to pet supplies.
Walgreens is joining in with one of the better offers in the pharmacy space—20% off regular-priced in-store purchases for veterans and military families. The deal runs from November 8 through November 11, giving you a few days to plan your trip and avoid the crowds. All you need is a myWalgreens account and proof of service.
Travel, Oil Changes & More Surprises
Veterans Day isn’t just about quick perks—it’s also a chance to lock in bigger value for travel and services you might already need.
Many national auto service centers like Meineke, Jiffy Lube, and even smaller local garages are offering either free or heavily discounted oil changes for veterans on November 11. This one’s often overlooked, but it’s a huge saver—especially when routine maintenance costs can creep up. Be sure to call ahead and ask if your local shop is participating.
Planning to get away for the weekend? Major hotel brands including Hilton, Marriott, and IHG have discounted rates specifically for military families. These aren’t just for Veterans Day either—many of them are available year-round, but this time of year is when they highlight it the most. Booking early can help you combine this with loyalty points or other promotions for even better value.
Some museums, national parks, and attractions also offer free admission on Veterans Day. If you’re looking for a day trip, check out your nearest science center, zoo, or historic site. Many of them participate in military appreciation days—just bring ID and ask.
Dining Deals Beyond the Big Chains
While Applebee’s and Starbucks get a lot of attention, don’t sleep on the local gems and mid-sized chains joining in with great food offers.
IHOP often offers free pancakes or breakfast combos on Veterans Day. Golden Corral, famous for its buffet, has a long-standing tradition of hosting a free “thank you” dinner for veterans—usually on or around Veterans Day. Cracker Barrel typically offers a free dessert or beverage with your meal if you're a veteran.
Other places like Chili’s, Red Robin, and Outback Steakhouse also usually roll out Veterans Day menus or discount days. Even fast food joints like Dunkin’ and Wendy’s have offered free coffee or breakfast sandwiches in past years, and 2025 is expected to follow that pattern.
The key here? Check the fine print. Some offers are dine-in only, some are limited to certain hours, and a few require an online coupon or app download. But if you plan ahead, it’s entirely possible to eat free all day—from breakfast to dinner.
Here’s What to Know Before You Go
Claiming these deals is usually easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind so your day goes smoothly.
First, always bring valid proof of military service. This can be a military ID, VA card, DD214, or even a driver’s license with a veteran designation. Most places are pretty flexible, but having something official will help you avoid hassle at checkout.
Second, not every location of a national chain is required to participate. Many franchises decide individually whether to offer the promotion, so it’s smart to call ahead and ask. The last thing you want is to show up and hear “we’re not doing that here.”
Lastly, timing matters. Some offers are only good on November 11, while others stretch across a few days. Walgreens, for example, is doing a four-day deal from the 8th to the 11th. That flexibility helps, but it also means you should double-check your dates so you don’t miss out.
It’s More Than a Meal
Veterans Day in 2025 is shaping up to be more than just a day of recognition—it’s a full day of actual value. From free meals and hot coffee to serious discounts on tools, travel, and car services, the deals this year are worth making time for.
Whether you’re heading out for breakfast, treating the family to dinner, or picking up necessities at Walgreens or Lowe’s, you can enjoy genuine discounts simply for your service.
You dedicated your time, commitment, and strength. Let today be the moment when the nation shows its appreciation by giving something meaningful in return.