WASHINGTON — Monday is Veterans Day in the U.S., an annual holiday to honor those who have served in the military.
The federal holiday, which falls on Nov. 11 each year, is linked to the end of World War I and wasn't officially called Veterans Day until 1954.
Because it's a federal holiday, many government-related offices will be closed, including the post office and banks. But businesses typically remain open, and some are offering discounts or freebies to veterans as a way of showing thanks.
As always, be sure to double check whether stores in your area are participating.
Here are some of the best deals for Veterans Day 2024
Applebee's - Veterans and active duty military personnel can receive a free meal from a select menu by dining in at a participating location on Nov. 11.
BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse - On Nov. 11, veterans who dine in at BJ's can get a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie as a dessert with no minimum purchase, as well as a coupon for a free appetizer.
California Pizza Kitchen - All veterans and active military service members are eligible for a free meal from a select menu on Nov. 11, as well as a BOGO offer for a pizza, pasta or salad that can be used on a future visit.
Round Table Pizza - All guests can get 15% off their order through Nov. 11 at participating locations. Valid for dine-in, carry-out and delivery.
Chili's - The restaurant chain is offering free meals to veterans at participating restaurants. To redeem, just show a valid military ID.
Denny's - Veterans can get a free Original Grand Slam on Nov. 11 from 5 a.m. to noon by presenting their valid military ID or DD214.
Outback Steakhouse - Active-duty military and veterans get a free Bloomin’ Onion and beverage with the purchase of an adult entree when dining in on Nov. 11.
Dunkin' - Want a donut? Dunkin' is offering active and retired military personnel a free donut on Nov. 11, with a limit of one per guest while supplies last.
Golden Corral - All current U.S. service members, retired military and veterans, will receive a free buffet and drink from 4 p.m. until close at all Golden Corral locations on Monday, Nov. 11.
Charleys Cheesesteaks - All active and retired military members get a free regular-sized Gourmet Fry on Nov. 11. Military ID or proof of service required. No purchase necessary.
Fazoli's - All active military and veterans can get a free Spaghetti with Marinara or Meat Sauce at participating locations with proof of service when dining in or via the online code, "Vet24" on Nov. 11.
Hooters - All retired and active-duty military, who present proof of service or a military ID, with purchase of a beverage, may order one free meal from a special Veterans Day menu. The offer is valid for dine-in only at participating Hooters locations.
Olive Garden - In the mood for some Italian? Olive Garden is offering those that dine-in on Nov. 11 a complimentary entrée from a special menu.
IHOP - The International House of Pancakes is celebrating Veterans Day by giving free Red White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo meals to any veterans who come in on Nov. 11 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Little Caesars - Veterans can snag a free Lunch Combo, which includes four slices of deep dish pizza and a 20-oz drink, anytime between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Nov. 11.
Qdoba - 50% off entrees for veterans and active duty military at participating locations with military ID, dine-in only.
Red Robin - The burger chain is offering veterans and active duty military members a complimentary "Red's Big Tavern Burger" and a bottomless side when dining at participating restaurants on Nov. 11.
Johnny Rockets - Veterans with an ID or in uniform can get a free single burger with the purchase of a drink or shake at participating locations. Valid only for dine-in customers.
Cracker Barrel - Veterans and active-duty service members get a free "Sunrise Pancake Special" at all locations, available for dine-in guests. Cracker Barrel is offering 25% off military-themed apparel in-store and online through Nov. 11.
Starbucks - Veterans and military spouses can go to any participating Starbucks location on Nov. 11 for a free tall coffee, either brewed or iced.
Menchie's - Veterans and active-duty military members get 6 oz of froyo free with valid ID on Nov. 11.
Wendy's - Veterans and active duty military personnel can get a free Breakfast Combo on Nov. 11 during the restaurant's breakfast hours at participating locations.
In-N-Out Burger - Veterans, active-duty military, reserves and National Guard members receive a complimentary meal, including any burger, fries, and beverage on In-N-Out Burger’s menu. Customers must present valid proof of service.
