Veterans Day 2024 is a cherished national holiday that honors the bravery and sacrifice of veterans across the United States. Every year on November 11, businesses and restaurants come together to express their gratitude by offering special deals, including free meals, coffee, and more, to veterans and active-duty military personnel. This year, Veterans Day falls on a Saturday, making it an ideal opportunity for communities to come together and celebrate. Here’s a detailed guide on the meaning of Veterans Day, how it’s celebrated, and 24 top food deals available to veterans in 2024.
What is Veterans Day?
Veterans Day is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring the individuals who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Unlike Memorial Day, which remembers those who have died in service, Veterans Day celebrates all veterans, living and deceased. Established in 1919 as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, it was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to honor all U.S. military veterans.
When is Veterans Day Celebrated?
Veterans Day is observed every year on November 11. This date was chosen because it marks the anniversary of the end of World War I in 1918. The “eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” symbolizes the moment the armistice with Germany went into effect, effectively ending the war. If Veterans Day falls on a weekend, it is still celebrated on November 11, though federal offices and banks may observe it on the closest weekday.
How is Veterans Day Celebrated?
Veterans Day is celebrated in various ways across the country:
- Parades and Ceremonies: Many towns and cities hold parades and memorial services, including wreath-laying ceremonies at war memorials and military cemeteries.
- Moments of Silence: Often, a moment of silence is observed at 11 a.m. to honor those who served.
- Discounts and Free Meals: Many businesses, especially restaurants, offer free meals or discounts as a gesture of appreciation. This has become a widely recognized and anticipated tradition for veterans and their families.
24 Veterans Day 2024 Food Deals: Free Meals, Coffee, and More
To show appreciation, many restaurants are offering special food deals for veterans on Veterans Day. Here’s a look at some of the best food deals, with details about what’s included:
- Applebee’s
Veterans can enjoy a complimentary full-size entrée from a specially curated menu that includes favorites like the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, Fiesta Lime Chicken, and Oriental Chicken Salad. Additionally, Applebee’s often provides a $5 coupon for the next visit. - Buffalo Wild Wings
Veterans and active-duty military personnel can stop by for a free order of 10 boneless wings and fries. The offer is available for dine-in only, and proof of service is required. - Cracker Barrel
Veterans can receive a complimentary slice of Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola Cake with a meal purchase. Cracker Barrel also offers discounts on retail items as part of their Veterans Day celebration. - Chili’s Grill & Bar
Veterans are invited to choose a free meal from a select menu that includes dishes such as Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas, Just Bacon Burger, and Oldtimer with Cheese.
- Denny’s
Denny’s is offering a free Build Your Own Grand Slam breakfast to veterans. This classic breakfast includes choices like pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, and hash browns. - Golden Corral
Golden Corral provides a complimentary “thank you” dinner for veterans and active-duty personnel. Known for its buffet-style dining, Golden Corral allows veterans to enjoy a wide selection of dishes, from roasted meats to fresh salads. - IHOP
Veterans and military members can stop by IHOP to receive a free stack of Red, White & Blueberry Pancakes. This patriotic-themed stack is topped with strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream. - Outback Steakhouse
Veterans receive a free Bloomin’ Onion appetizer and a non-alcoholic beverage. Additionally, Outback extends a 10% discount on future purchases for veterans throughout the year. - Olive Garden
Veterans are welcome to enjoy a free entrée from a special menu featuring Olive Garden classics like Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Chicken Parmigiana, and Fettucine Alfredo, served with unlimited soup or salad and breadsticks. - Starbucks
Veterans and active-duty military members can enjoy a free tall (12 oz) hot brewed coffee. The offer is also extended to military spouses. - Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse hands out meal vouchers for veterans to enjoy a future dine-in meal. These vouchers are typically handed out in the restaurant parking lots on Veterans Day. - Red Lobster
Red Lobster offers veterans a free appetizer or dessert, such as Crispy Green Beans, Mozzarella Cheesesticks, or Vanilla Bean Cheesecake. - Red Robin
Veterans can enjoy a free Red’s Tavern Double Burger, complete with Bottomless Steak Fries. - Little Caesars
Veterans can pick up a free Hot-N-Ready Lunch Combo, which includes four slices of pepperoni pizza and a 20-ounce Pepsi product. - California Pizza Kitchen
Veterans are invited to enjoy a complimentary entrée and can choose from popular items like The Original BBQ Chicken Pizza, Mushroom Pepperoni Sausage Pizza, or a California Veggie Pizza.
- Krispy Kreme
Veterans and active military members can grab a free doughnut and coffee. - Hooters
Veterans can enjoy a free meal from a select menu that includes Hooters’ famous wings and other American favorites. - Bob Evans
Veterans can choose a free meal from a special menu that includes dishes such as Country Biscuit Breakfast and Brioche French Toast. - Red Lobster
Veterans can select a complimentary appetizer or dessert on Veterans Day, with choices like Lobster & Langostino Pizza and Chocolate Wave dessert. - Bonefish Grill
Veterans receive a complimentary appetizer, such as Bang Bang Shrimp or Imperial Dip. - MOD Pizza
Veterans can receive a free MOD-size pizza or salad with the presentation of military ID. - TGI Friday’s
Veterans can receive a free lunch and choose from popular items like Cheeseburgers, Chicken Sandwiches, and Caesar Salads. - Friendly’s
Friendly’s is offering veterans a free All-American meal, which includes a burger and a drink. - Einstein Bros. Bagels
Veterans can enjoy a free hot or iced coffee with their choice of any bagel.
FAQ on Veterans Day Food Deals
1. Do I need proof of service to claim these offers?
Yes, most restaurants will require proof of service, such as a military ID, discharge paperwork, or VA card.
2. Can family members of veterans enjoy the free meals?
Typically, these offers are exclusive to veterans and active-duty military. However, some restaurants may extend discounts to family members.
3. Are these offers available for takeout?
Policies vary by restaurant. Many offers are dine-in only, but check with individual locations for takeout options.
4. Can I use multiple Veterans Day deals in one day?
Yes, veterans are welcome to take advantage of as many offers as they like, provided they meet each restaurant’s requirements.
This Veterans Day, don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy these special food deals as a token of gratitude for your service. From breakfast classics to hearty dinners, these offers cover a wide range of delicious meals for veterans and active-duty military members alike.
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