Veterans Day 2024, which falls on Monday, November 11, offers a moment to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. For many, it’s also an opportunity to enjoy a long weekend, attend a local remembrance event, or take advantage of the discounts and freebies offered to veterans. But while some places are open and operating normally, others close their doors in observance of this federal holiday. Here’s a look at what’s open, what’s closed, and where veterans can find deals and complimentary meals on Veterans Day 2024.
What’s Open on Veterans Day 2024?
Retail Stores: Major retailers like Walmart, Target, and grocery chains (Kroger, Safeway, etc.) will be open.
Restaurants & Coffee Shops: Most dining establishments, including chains like Starbucks, McDonald’s, and local eateries, will be open with regular hours.
Transportation Services: Public transit (buses, subways) will run as scheduled, and ride-share services like Uber and Lyft will be operating normally.
Stock Markets: The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will be open for trading.
Liquor Stores: Typically open in most areas, though some states may have restrictions—check local regulations.
What’s Closed on Veterans Day 2024?
Government Offices: Federal, state, and local offices, including the DMV, will be closed.
Post Offices: USPS locations will be closed, and there will be no regular mail delivery. FedEx and UPS are open, though some services may have modified hours.
Banks: Most major banks (Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Chase) will be closed, though ATMs and online banking services remain available.
Schools and Libraries: Most public schools and libraries will be closed, though local variations may apply—check with your district or local library.
Trash Collection: Trash and recycling schedules may be adjusted; check with your local municipality for any changes.
Veterans Day Freebies and Discounts
Restaurant Deals
Texas Roadhouse: Free meal vouchers for veterans and active-duty military.
Applebee’s: Free meal from a select menu for veterans.
Cracker Barrel: Complimentary “Sunrise Pancake Special.”
Wendy’s: Free breakfast combo during breakfast hours for veterans.
Dunkin’: Free donut for veterans and active-duty military.
IHOP: Free Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo.
Buffalo Wild Wings: 10 free boneless wings and fries.
Golden Corral: Free meal from 4 p.m. to close.
Outback Steakhouse: Free Bloomin’ Onion and beverage with entrée purchase.
California Pizza Kitchen: Free meal from a select menu plus a BOGO offer.
Bob Evans: Free meal from a select menu.
Firehouse Subs: Free medium sub with a purchase.
Bonefish Grill: Free Bang Bang Shrimp with a soft drink.
Red Lobster: Free Walt’s Favorite Shrimp with sides.
Denny’s: Free Original Grand Slam from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Retail Discounts
Target: 10% discount for veterans and active-duty military from November 1–11.
Kohl’s: 30% off in-store purchases for veterans and families during Veterans Day weekend.
IKEA: 15% off in-store home furnishings purchases from November 10–22.
Academy Sports + Outdoors: 10% discount on in-store and online purchases for veterans.
Travel and Recreation Discounts
National Park Service: Free admission to National Parks for veterans on Veterans Day.
TravelCenters of America: Free meal at participating locations for veterans.
Main Event: Free double cheeseburger and 30-minute Fun Card for veterans.