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Veterans Day 2024 Freebies and Discounts

Veterans Day 2024 Freebies and Discounts: Honoring Those Who Served

Veterans Day is a special day to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have worn the uniform in service to our country. Many businesses and restaurants across the nation honor veterans with special offers, ranging from free meals to discounts on products and services. While no promotion can repay their dedication, these gestures are a small way to say, “Thank you.”

Below, you’ll find a roundup of some of the best Veterans Day 2024 discounts and freebies, along with tips on what identification to bring and other things to keep in mind.

Tips to Make the Most of Veterans Day Offers

Here are some reminders to keep in mind before heading out:

  • Bring Valid ID: Most businesses require valid identification to confirm your veteran or military status. This may include a VA card, a driver’s license with a veteran designation, a military ID, or discharge papers. Check in advance to see what’s accepted at each location.

Retiree or Military Identification Card

VA Benefits Card

Veterans ID Card

If you’re currently on active duty, in the Guard or Reserve, or a military dependent, the simplest way to verify your veteran status is by presenting your official military ID card.
If you receive VA health benefits, you likely have a VA benefits photo ID card, which can serve as proof of veteran status at many businesses.
In 2017, the VA launched a free ID for honorably discharged veterans to help them show businesses they served, though it’s not an official federal ID. The program faces a major backlog.

DD-214

State Identification Card

Proof Online

Veterans who have access to their form DD-214 documents can use that as proof of service at many businesses. The VA’s new veteran ID card program is meant to eliminate the need to carry this form.
Some states offer the option of a veteran designation on driver’s licenses. Ask your state driver’s license office whether this is an option for you.
Many online businesses offer veteran discounts, often using programs like ID.me, which require a one-time registration and proof of veteran or other affiliations. Businesses then verify users through ID.me to apply discounts.
  • Check the Dates and Times: Not all deals are available all day or on the same day. Some businesses run promotions before or after Veterans Day, so confirm the timing to avoid missing out.
  • Ask Ahead: If you’re unsure whether a specific business participates, it’s always a good idea to ask. Many local businesses may also offer discounts not widely advertised, so don’t hesitate to inquire!

1. Free Meals & Dining Discounts

Several popular restaurant chains offer complimentary meals to veterans and active-duty military on Veterans Day. Here are a few that you might enjoy:

  • Applebee’s: Veterans and active-duty military can enjoy a free meal from a special Veterans Day menu.
  • Army & Air Force Exchange Service — On November 11, Army & Air Force Exchange Service offers various deals, including 15% off food purchases at participating restaurants for MILITARY STAR cardmembers.
  • Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar — Veterans and active-duty military get a free 5 oz. BD’s All American Burger with cheese and choice of side on November 11. Offer available with valid military ID from 11am to 3pm. 
  • Bandana’s BBQ — Veterans and active-duty military members get a free pulled pork sandwich with choice of one side on November 11 with a military ID or proof of service. Dine in only.
  • Bar Louie — Veterans and active-duty military receive a free burger from November 10 to 11. Excludes the Big Louie. Upgrade to the Impossible Burger for $4. Must show military ID to receive offer. Available for dine-in only.

2. Retail Discounts

Many stores extend exclusive discounts to veterans on and around Veterans Day, making it a great time to shop for gifts, clothing, or home essentials:

  • 4Patriots — 4Patriots is offering veterans and active-duty military its best-selling $29 72-Hour Survival Food Kit for free on November 11. To receive the free food kit, veterans and active military must register on the 4Patriots Veterans Day Celebration Event page on November 11 only.
  • Academy Sports + Outdoors — Active-duty service members and veterans get 10% off the entire purchase online or in-store from October 20 to November 11.
  • Amazon — Amazon offers a 20% discount on select items for Veterans Day, no military ID required.
  • Ashley Stewart — Get an additional 20% off your entire purchase from November 1 through 11. Cannot be combined with other offers.
  • Brides Across America — Brides Across America holds a wedding gown giveaway for military in partnership with bridal salons across the country in November. Qualifying brides register to attend the event at a participating bridal salon by completing the registration form. There is a $99 tax-deductible donation required when registering for the event. Attend the event and select one of the designated gowns on display. Visit the Brides Across America website for more details.

TIP: Some retail discounts are available online, but it’s wise to confirm if the offer applies online or in-store, and be ready to verify your eligibility through ID.me or other military verification systems.

3. Recreation & Entertainment Offers

Enjoy the day with family or friends with free access to some memorable activities:

  • National Parks: Admission is free for everyone on Veterans Day, so it’s the perfect time to explore the great outdoors with your loved ones.
  • AMC Theatres: Some locations offer veterans a free or discounted movie ticket on Veterans Day.
  • Museums and Zoos: Many museums and zoos around the country provide free entry to veterans and military personnel. Check with local attractions to see if they have a Veterans Day offer.

4. Service & Product Discounts

For veterans needing services, from car maintenance to haircuts, some of these perks might come in handy:

  • Army & Air Force Exchange Service — The Army & Air Force Exchange Service offers various deals, including 10 cents off every gallon of gas at fuel locations. Plus, Exchange stores will be handing out free challenge coins to veterans on November 11.
  • AutoNation — Military personnel, veterans and their spouses get a 20% discount on all services in-store at AutoNation-branded locations nationwide and at your preferred location via AutoNation Mobile Service from November 11 through 16.
  • Grace for Vets — Car washes from around the world who join this program offer free car washes to veterans and service members on November 11.
  • Great Clips – On November 11, veterans and active military service members can go to any U.S. Great Clips salon and get a free haircut or a card for a free haircut that can be redeemed during a future visit. 
  • Jacksons Car Wash — Veterans and active-duty military get a free full service ($21.99) or Express ($20) car wash for all November 9, 10 and 11.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Veterans

As we reflect on these gestures of appreciation, it’s essential to remember that no discount, free meal, or special offer can truly convey the depth of gratitude our nation feels for its veterans. Veterans Day is more than just a day of deals and discounts; it’s a time to honor the courage, resilience, and sacrifice each veteran embodies. Your service—whether it meant time away from family, enduring challenging environments, or carrying the weight of profound responsibility—has helped safeguard the freedoms and values that shape our country.

We recognize that your commitment doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. Many of you continue to serve in your communities, lending your leadership, compassion, and strength in ways that inspire us all. Veterans bring unique insight and tenacity to civilian life, building bridges, helping others, and working tirelessly to make a difference.

The appreciation shown on Veterans Day is just a small token of what we owe you. We understand that this respect and gratitude should be expressed not just on November 11, but every day. Through your service, you’ve demonstrated an extraordinary dedication to a cause larger than yourself, and for that, our nation is forever grateful.

So while these offers are just small gestures, we hope they serve as a reminder that you are valued, respected, and never forgotten. To all veterans: thank you for your service, your sacrifices, and your unwavering commitment.

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