Veterans Day 2026 falls on Wednesday, November 11. Every year, dozens of restaurant chains thank veterans and active-duty service members with a free meal, free coffee or a big discount. Most chains confirm their offers in the first week of November — this page tracks them and is updated as 2026 deals are announced.
Restaurants that gave free meals to veterans last year (2025)
These are the offers chains ran on Veterans Day 2025. Most repeat every year, but details can change — check the restaurant’s app or website before you go.
| Restaurant | 2025 Veterans Day offer | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Applebee’s | One free entrée from a special Veterans Day menu | Dine-in |
| Chili’s | Free meal for veterans and active military | Selected menu |
| Olive Garden | Free entrée from a special menu | Veterans and active duty |
| Bob Evans | Complimentary meal | Veterans and active duty |
| Buffalo Wild Wings | Free 10 boneless wings and regular fries | Dine-in or walk-in, military ID |
| IHOP | Free Red, White & Blueberry Pancake Combo | Participating locations |
| Chipotle | Buy one entrée, get one free | 4–8 p.m., valid military ID |
| Mission BBQ | Free sandwich | Veterans Day only |
| Firehouse Subs | Free combo | Participating locations |
| Dairy Queen | Complimentary medium Blizzard | Participating locations |
| Starbucks | Free tall hot or iced brewed coffee | Veterans, military and spouses |
| Dunkin’ | Free donut | Active and retired military |
| Krispy Kreme | Free small coffee and any doughnut | Participating shops |
| Wawa | Free coffee | Veterans, active duty and families |
| Insomnia Cookies | Free Deluxe cookie with $5 purchase | Show military ID |
Source: 2025 Veterans Day offer roundups published by U.S. news stations. Participation is decided by each location — many are franchises.
What counts as proof of service?
Most restaurants accept any one of these:
- Veteran ID Card (VIC) or VA Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- Military ID (active duty, reserve or retiree)
- DD-214 (a copy or photo is often accepted)
- A driver’s license or state ID with a veteran designation
- Membership card from a veterans organization (American Legion, VFW, etc.)
- At some places, a photo of yourself in uniform
Don’t have a Veteran ID card? Eligible veterans can request one online through VA.gov.
Tips to actually get your free meal
- Go early or late. Lunch rush on November 11 is packed — 10:30 a.m. or after 2 p.m. is calmer.
- Check dine-in rules. Many free-meal offers are dine-in only and not valid with delivery apps.
- Call your local branch. Franchise locations can opt out.
- Tip your server on the full value — they’re working a very busy shift.
- Look beyond restaurants: many local businesses, barbershops and car washes run their own Veterans Day thank-yous.
Help for veterans beyond Veterans Day
- Homeless or at risk of homelessness: call the VA’s National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838 (24/7).
- Crisis support: call 988 and press 1.
- Food help any day of the year: see how to find a food pantry near you.
- Rent trouble: see how to get rent assistance near you.
Frequently asked questions
When is Veterans Day 2026?
Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
Do active-duty service members get free meals too?
Usually yes — most chains include active duty, and some include reservists, National Guard and military spouses.
Can I order my free Veterans Day meal online?
Usually not. Most offers are dine-in only so staff can check ID.
Want to give back? Read how to find volunteer opportunities near you.
Last updated: October 2026. UrMission is an independent information site, not a charity, shelter or government agency. Programs, hours and offers change — confirm details with the provider before you go.