PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Veterans Day is Wednesday, and businesses across the Valley are saying thank you to veterans and military members with free meals, discounts and other offers.
Here’s a look at some of the deals available this year, along with local events honoring those who served.
Food and drink
Applebee’s
Veterans and active-duty military members can choose a free entrée from a special seven-item menu at participating restaurants. The offer is dine-in only, and proof of service is required.
Backyard Taco
Veterans and active-duty military members can get a free meal worth up to $15 at any Backyard Taco location with a valid military ID. Valley locations include Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek and Laveen.
Benihana
From Nov. 9 through 11, active military members, veterans, first responders and Gold Star families can receive a free five-course hibachi entrée with the purchase of an appetizer. The offer is dine-in only, and ID or proof of service or employment is required.
Buffalo Wild Wings
Veterans and active-duty military members can get 10 boneless wings and fries with a valid military ID. Check with your specific location about participation and any purchase requirement.
Chili’s
Veterans and active-duty military members can get a free entrée from a limited menu at participating restaurants. The offer is dine-in only.
Chipotle
This year, veterans and active-duty U.S. service members can get free regular-size chips and a choice of guacamole, queso blanco or salsa with a purchase of at least $5. The offer is available in restaurants only at participating locations, and proof of service is required.
Firehouse Subs
Veterans and active-duty military members can buy one sub and get a second one free. The offer is in-store, and a valid military ID is required.
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Veterans and active-duty military members can visit Freddy’s on Nov. 11 to receive a card for a free combo meal. No purchase is necessary to get the card, which can be redeemed through Nov. 25, 2026. Bring a valid military ID.
Golden Corral
Veterans, current service members and military retirees can enjoy a free buffet and beverage from 4 p.m. to closing. The offer is dine-in only. The free meal does not extend to family and friends.
In-N-Out Burger
Veterans, active-duty service members, reservists and National Guard members can get a complimentary burger, fries and beverage, plus a Veterans Day decal. Proof of service is required.
Outback Steakhouse
On Nov. 10 and 11, active and retired U.S. military members and veterans can get a free Bloomin’ Onion and a Coca-Cola product or eligible domestic draft beer. The offer is available for dine-in or phone takeout orders. Eligible guests who dine in and use or join Dine Rewards can also receive a Hero’s Meal reward for a later visit.
Red Robin
Veterans and active-duty military members can get a free Red’s Big Tavern Burger and bottomless steak fries. The offer is dine-in at participating locations, with ID or proof of service. No purchase is necessary.
Shake Shack
Veterans and active-duty military members can get a free single ShackBurger at participating locations. Order with a team member inside the Shack and show proof of service.
Starbucks
Veterans, military service members and their spouses can get a free 12-ounce hot or iced brewed coffee at participating stores.
Wendy’s
Veterans and active-duty military members can get a free Dave’s Single at participating restaurants.
Cobblestone Auto Spa
Veterans and active-duty U.S. military members can receive a free Polish & Shine wash and a free basic oil change at participating Arizona Cobblestone locations. Oil changes aren’t available at every location, so check the location finder and call ahead for service availability and proof requirements.
Great Clips
Veterans and active-duty military members can receive a free haircut on Nov. 11.
Phoenix Zoo
Active and retired military members and veterans can get free daytime admission on Nov. 11. Family and friends in their party receive $10 off admission. Present a valid military ID and photo ID at the ticket window; the zoo also accepts a DD214 as military ID. The zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sport Clips
Participating locations are offering free haircuts to veterans and active-duty service members on Nov. 11. Check with your local salon to confirm participation.
Valley Veterans Day events
Phoenix Veterans Day Parade
The free parade steps off at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, with a new route: It travels north on Third Street from McDowell Road to Indian School Road. Organizers say spectators should not go to the former route along Central Avenue, Camelback Road or Seventh Street. The parade typically ends around 1 p.m. Check the route and parking page before leaving.
Heard Museum: American Indian Veterans Day Art Market and Sunset Tribute
The Heard Museum in Phoenix will host an art market and daytime program from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., followed by a tribute and reception from 5 to 7 p.m. Veterans and active-duty military members with valid ID receive free museum admission for themselves and one guest.
Gilbert Veterans Day Ceremony and Car Show
The free community event at Water Tower Plaza runs from 3 to 6 p.m. on Nov. 11. The car show is scheduled from 3 to 5 p.m., followed by the ceremony from 5 to 6 p.m.
Note: Offers and event details may change, so check with the restaurant, business or event organizer before you go.…