With Veterans Day upon us, many local businesses and national chains are saying “thank you” to veterans and active military members by offering freebies and deals on food, drinks, activities, and merchandise. Just remember many require a military id, so be sure to bring yours in order to participate.
Columbia Mom thanks you for your service and the important role you play in our community and beyond. Thank you for fighting for our freedom and rights, and we hope you take time for yourself, especially today, to celebrate and honor your service!
46th Annual Veterans Day Parade
Join the City of Columbia for one of the Southeast’s largest Veterans Day Parade. It will feature more than 85 elements from Fort Jackson, the South Carolina National Guard, Shaw AFB, various veterans’ organizations along with local schools and universities to help us thank those men and women who have and continue to answer our nation’s call to service. The parade will begin at the corner of Sumter and Laurel Streets.
Time: Monday, November 11 at 11 a.m.
Location: Downtown Columbia – the parade begins at the intersection of Sumter and Laurel streets, and travels southbound on Sumter Street, ending at Pendleton Street near the State House.
Riverbanks Zoo
All military veterans (persons who have served or are serving in the United States Armed Forces) will receive free admission to the Zoo and Garden in honor of Veterans Day. Simply present your military ID at the gate for complimentary entry.
Time: Monday, November 11 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210
Great Clips
On Veterans Day, customers who come in for a haircut at any U.S. Great Clips salon will receive a free haircut card to give to an active, inactive, retired, disabled and reserve members from any military branch, including the National Guard. Military members can also come in on Veterans Day for a free haircut or to pick up a free haircut card to use, with proof of service.
Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse is once again offering a free Bloomin’ Onion and Coca-Cola product (or 16 oz domestic draft — one beverage for military personnel and one for their spouse) on Veterans Day 2024 when they purchase an adult entree. You can also get a $10 off coupon good for a future visit.
The chain also supports military members and veterans with an everyday 10% “HEROES discount” to military service members, veterans, police, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and other first responders – along with their immediate family members.
Chili’s
You must dine in, and the free food is from a limited menu. Beverages and gratuity are not included. Veterans and active duty military members must simply show proof of military service to take advantage of this offer.
Dunkin’
On Saturday, Dunkin’ will give all retired and active military a free doughnut of their choice at participating Dunkin’ restaurants nationwide.
Another Broken Egg
Active and retired service members, enjoy a Patriot French Toast Combo and coffee on Veteran’s Day. Available for dine-in at specific cafes.
Applebee’s
FREE MEAL. There will be seven different meal options to choose from. Military members and veterans will also receive a $5 coupon to be redeemed on additional food and beverages or for a later time.
IHOP
Veterans and Active Duty Military can enjoy three of IHOP restaurant’s hot-off-the-griddle, world famous Buttermilk Pancakes with glazed strawberries, blueberry compote and whipped topping for free at participating U.S. locations. Veterans and Active Duty Military simply show proof of military service to receive their free Red, White & Blue Pancakes.
Beef O Brady’s
Free BYOB (Build Your Own Burger) and Fries for veterans on Monday (offer good at participating locations).
Sonic
The fast-food chain is celebrating Veterans Day by giving all customers half price shakes in any size and flavor, including both Classic and Master Shakes.
Taziki’s
Taziki’s is giving FREE Grilled Chicken Gyros to all U.S. Veterans and donating $1 from every gyro sold to the Wounded Warrior Project. Valid for dine-in only.
Texas Road House
The restaurant offers active-duty military, veteran, and retired military members a choice between dining in or receiving a meal voucher from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Veterans will receive a meal voucher to use for dine-in or carry-out at a later time. Vouchers are valid until May 30, 2025. A form of military ID is required.
Chicken Salad Chick
Service members in uniform and/or those who present a valid military ID at the register on Monday will get a free Chick Meal + drink (meal includes either a scoop or a sandwich, plus one fresh side, and a regular fountain drink).
Cici’s Pizza
Active and retired military with a valid military ID on Monday can have a complimentary Adult Buffet.
Cracker Barrel
Along with the complimentary dessert for veterans, Cracker Barrel guests may purchase the Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola® Cake on November 11, or select retail items from the Red, White & Blue collection from November 1-11, and 10 percent of all proceeds will be donated to the USO. The retail items include God Bless America and Colossal Flag Tervis, Land of Free Word Block, Peg Game, Flag Cookie, All American Mix, and Camo and Pink Camo Jelly Bellies.
Fazoli’s
All active military and veterans can enjoy 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 November 11.
Golden Corral
Veterans, active and retired U.S. military get a free “thank you” buffet and beverage Monday from 4 p.m. until closing time (no purchase or military ID required). Representatives from Disabled American Veterans will be on site accepting donations, too.
BJ’s Brewhouse
All current and former military personnel with a valid military ID get a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie with no minimum food purchase purchase. They also get a bounce back coupon for a free appetizer, redeemable November 12-December 31 for dine in or take out.
Dave & Busters
D&B is giving a savory salute to our veterans & active duty military. Enjoy a FREE Entrée + $10 Power Card® on Veterans Day. Valid 11/10-11/11 with military ID.
