What’s Open On Veterans Day 2016 And Where Can Vets Get A Free Meal On Friday?
Veterans Day is observed every year on November 11, and just like on other federal holidays, people are never quite sure what’s open and what’s closed on Friday. Although there are a number of federal offices and local business that will be closed, rest assured that restaurants will be open and many of them will be serving up a free or discounted meal to veterans.
Whether you have the holiday off or you’re working, find information below about the holiday hours for banks, retail stores like Walmart and Target, and the U.S. Post Office, as a list of Veterans Day restaurant freebies and deals offered on a day that was created to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
According to International Business Times, all U.S. Post Office locations will be closed and there will be no mail delivery on Friday, but you’re in luck if you are expecting a package from UPS or FedEx — both delivery services will be open at regular business hours on Veterans Day.
The Office of Veterans Affairs reports that it’s not mandatory for state offices to close on Veterans Day, but most federal offices will be closed. However, many states observe the federal holiday calendar, so expect your local Department of Human Services, Department of Motor Vehicles, public schools, and libraries to close for the day on November 11.
Veterans Day is a bank holiday, so that means you may have to use the ATM or your mobile app to do your banking. However, there are a few banks that will be open on Friday, including TD Bank in the Northeast. It’s always a good idea to call ahead before you go or check your bank’s operating hours online.
If you have shopping to do on Friday, most big box stores like Walmart, Target, and Kmart will be open, as well as most malls, supermarkets, and liquor stores.
Most chain restaurants and many local eateries will be open on Friday. Every year, restaurants across the nation are honor veterans as well as active members of the U.S. Military with free or discounted meals on Veterans Day, with some extending the offer throughout the weekend.
Some restaurants will be offering a full breakfast, lunch, or dinner with a proper ID to say “thanks for your service.” Others will give a discount or free appetizers, desserts, or simply a free cup of coffee.
We love to serve those who served us! All military eat FREE on Veteran's Day, Nov. 11th! #VeteransDay pic.twitter.com/xdhPlZAgMJ
— Hootie (@Hooters) October 31, 2016
One thing is for sure — veterans can expect long lines for the freebies on Friday, but it’s worth the wait for some of the offers and it’s likely you will be in line with other veterans who would be more than happy to share their stories with you.
Every year, the most popular Veterans Day free meals are offered by popular chains including Olive Garden, Applebee’s, TGI Fridays, Boston Market, Hooters, Golden Corral, and Cracker Barrel. Keep in mind, you’ll need a valid ID that indicates that you are a vet, although some restaurants will allow you to come in uniform to get your freebie.
According to The Military Wallet, dozens of restaurants are participating this year and they’ve come up with a printable page of free meals and deals that may come in handy if you’re out and about looking to score a good meal for free — or at least a restaurant that offers a Veterans Day discount.
Whether you’re in search of a quick breakfast or a complete meal, it won’t be hard to find a number of chain restaurants that will honor our nations’ veterans this Friday with a free Veterans Day meal.
[Featured Image by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images]
