WASHINGTON — Saturday marks Veterans Day, an annual celebration honoring those who have served in the U.S. military.
The federal holiday on Nov. 11 is linked to the end of World War I and wasn't officially called Veterans Day until 1954.
In 2023, because Veterans Day falls on a Saturday, federal employees and some organizations will observe the holiday the previous day, Friday, Nov. 10, and many services from the government will also be closed that day.
Several large chains across the U.S. are honoring veterans with special deals and discounts for former or active servicemembers on Friday or Saturday.
Below you'll find several options, be sure to check with local locations to make sure they are participating.
Applebee's Veterans Day free meal
On Nov. 11, veterans and active-duty members of the military can get one of eight free entrée options at Applebee's, and will receive a $5 Bounce Back Card that can be used at any participating location within three weeks.
Denny's free Veterans Day breakfast
Any active or retired military personnel will be able to get a free Original Grand Slam Breakfast at participating Denny's locations on Friday, Nov. 10, from 5 a.m. to noon with a valid military ID or DD 204.
Pilot Flying J Veterans Day meal
Service members and their families verified through ID.me in the myRewards Plus app can get a free meal credit valued up to $12 at Pilot Flying J. The Veterans Day offer can be claimed November 10-12, 2023, through the myRewards Plus app.
iHop Veterans Day free pancakes
Veterans and active duty military personnel can get a free stack of red, white, and blueberry pancakes at iHop on Saturday, Nov. 11, from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Dunkin' Veterans Day free donut
Each year, all retired and active military members can get a free donut of their choice at any participating Dunkin’ restaurants nationwide on Veterans Day.
Golden Corral Buffet Military Appreciation Night
Those who served in the military can get a free dinner at participating Golden Corral Buffet locations during Military Appreciation Night on Monday, Nov. 13, from 5 p.m. – close.
Starbucks Veterans Day free coffee
The world's largest coffee chain is offering a free tall hot or cold brewed coffee for veterans, active military service members and military spouses who visit participating U.S. Starbucks stores on Saturday, Nov. 11.
California Pizza Kitchen Veterans Day free entrée
Veterans and active duty military in uniform or with military ID receive a free California Pizza Kitchen entrée and drink on Saturday, Nov. 11, from a special Veterans Day Menu. Other guests dining with a veteran or active duty military member will receive a Buy one Get one free, pizza, pasta or a salad coupon to come back between November 12th-November 21st.
Chili's Veterans Day free meal
All veterans and active military members can get one of four free meal options on Saturday, Nov. 11, at all participating Chili's locations. The choices include an Old Timer with Cheese, Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas, Three-Piece Crispers with fries, Chili or Soup with a side salad.
Krispy Kreme free donut Veterans Day
Veterans and active military members can visit any participating Krispy Kreme store in the U.S. for a free doughnut and a free small coffee on Saturday, Nov. 11.
Hooters Veterans Day free meal
Hooters will give all veterans & active military members one of five free meal options on Saturday, Nov. 11, at all participating locations. The choices include 10-Piece Boneless Wings, Hooters Burger, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich and Buffalo Chicken Salad.
Red Robin Veterans Day free burger and fries
Red Robin is offering veterans and military members a free Red's Big Tavern Burger and fries at participating locations on Saturday, Nov. 11.
BJ's Restaurant Veterans Day free dessert
Veterans with a valid military ID will be able to get a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie at BJ's Restaurant locations when they buy anything worth at least $9.95 for a dine-in meal.