Veterans Day is about more than free meals and discounts. It’s a day to recognize the men and women who have served our country, honor their sacrifices, and show our appreciation in meaningful ways.
And here in Omaha, Bellevue, Papillion, and the surrounding communities, local businesses are stepping up to say thank you.
As a retired Navy veteran, Veterans Day holds a special place in my heart. This year, I’m especially excited because I’m teaming up with Wyatt Robertson of Veterans United Home Loans to provide free meals to veterans at Luigi’s Italian Restaurant in Bellevue on November 11!
But that’s just one of the ways our community is celebrating.
From free restaurant meals and retail discounts to local events and businesses giving back to organizations like Moving Veterans Forward, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate Veterans Day in Omaha in 2026.
I’ve rounded up the best Veterans Day freebies, discounts, events, and local offers in the Omaha area to help you make the most of the day.
And while you’re exploring, don’t forget about the veteran-owned businesses right here in our community that deserve our support all year long.
Let’s see what’s happening for Veterans Day 2026!
Table of Contents
FREE Veterans Day Meal at Luigi’s Italian Restaurant in Bellevue
Wednesday, November 11, 2026 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
This Veterans Day, I’m teaming up with Wyatt Robertson of Veterans United Home Loans to treat local veterans to a free meal at Luigi’s Italian Restaurant in Bellevue!
As a retired Navy veteran myself, I know how much our military community means to the Omaha area. Wyatt and I wanted to do something to show our appreciation, and what better way than sharing a good Italian meal?
Veterans can choose a FREE meal from the following menu:
- Spaghetti with marinara or meat sauce
- Pasta Sampler
- Manicotti
- Chicken Parmigiana
- Chicken or Shrimp Alfredo
Where: Luigi’s Italian Restaurant, 11507 S. 42nd St., Suite 107, Bellevue, NE 68123
When: November 11, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
What to bring: Military ID
The meals are purchased by Veterans United Home Loans and me – Justin Ogburn from Revel Realty.
Whether you’re a longtime Bellevue resident or recently arrived at Offutt Air Force Base, we’d love to help make your Veterans Day a little more special.
Thank you for your service!
Sprinkle Joy Frozen Custard: Veterans Day Treats Supporting Moving Veterans Forward
November 10–15, 2026
Here’s a Veterans Day deal that does a little extra good in our community!
Sprinkle Joy Frozen Custard in La Vista is offering a special promotion for veterans and active-duty military members.
Present an active-duty military ID or veteran ID and receive one certificate for a FREE regular-size custard for every $25 in gift cards purchased.
That means:
- Buy $25 in gift cards and receive one free custard certificate.
- Buy $50 in gift cards and receive two.
- Buy $75 in gift cards and receive three.
Each certificate can be redeemed for any regular-size custard.
And here’s the part we especially love: Sprinkle Joy donates 5% of its sales each month to a rotating charity. For November 2026, the beneficiary is Moving Veterans Forward, a local nonprofit that helps veterans transition into stable housing and rebuild their lives.
That means 5% of Sprinkle Joy’s November sales, including gift card purchases, will support Moving Veterans Forward.
Location: 9635 Giles Road, La Vista, NE
Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday–Thursday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Friday–Saturday: 9 a.m.–8:30 p.m.
- Sunday: 9 a.m.–8 p.m.
If you’re planning to purchase gift cards for the holidays anyway, this is a great opportunity to support a local business, enjoy a little frozen custard, and help veterans in our community.
National Chains Offering Free Veterans Day Meals and Discounts in 2026
Looking for a free breakfast, lunch, or dinner this Veterans Day? Several national restaurant chains are thanking veterans and active-duty military members with complimentary meals, special discounts, and other perks on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
Here are the announced 2026 Veterans Day restaurant offers worth checking out around Omaha, Bellevue, Papillion, and the surrounding area.
Free Meals and Restaurant Deals
- Applebee’s – Free full-size entrée from a special Veterans Day menu for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in only. Guests also receive a $5 Bounce Back Card for a future visit, expiring November 29.
- Buffalo Wild Wings – Free 10 boneless wings and fries for veterans and active-duty service members at participating locations.
- Chili’s Grill & Bar – Free meal from a special Veterans Day menu for veterans and active-duty military. Dine-in only.
- Denny’s – Free Original Grand Slam breakfast from 5 a.m. to noon. Dine-in only with proof of service.
- Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers – Free combo meal card distributed on November 11, redeemable through November 25, 2026.
- Golden Corral – Free buffet and beverage for veterans and military members during Military Appreciation Night, November 11, from 4 p.m. until closing.
- IHOP – Free Red, White & Blueberry Pancakes for veterans and active-duty military from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Olive Garden – Free entrée from a special Veterans Day menu at participating restaurants.
- Outback Steakhouse – Free Bloomin’ Onion and beverage on November 10–11, with additional military appreciation promotions available.
- Red Lobster – Free Shrimp & Chips entrée for veterans, active-duty military, and reservists. Dine-in only.
- Red Robin – Free Red’s Big Tavern Burger with Bottomless Steak Fries. Dine-in only with proof of service.
- Starbucks – Free tall (12-ounce) hot or iced brewed coffee for veterans, service members, and military spouses at participating locations.
- Texas Roadhouse – Free meal voucher distributed from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on November 11. The voucher is for a future visit, not a free meal served that day.
Additional Veterans Day Offers
- Bonefish Grill – Free Bang Bang Shrimp entrée and nonalcoholic beverage for eligible military guests with identification.
- Chipotle – Free chips with a choice of guacamole, queso blanco, or salsa with a $5 purchase at participating locations.
- Ruby Tuesday – Free meal from a select menu, valued up to $17.99, including the Garden Bar and a bottomless drink.
- Smashburger – Free All-American Smashburger for veterans at participating restaurants.
- Yard House – Free appetizer for veterans and active-duty military.
Before you go: Most restaurants require military identification or other proof of service, and many offers are dine-in only. Participating locations, eligible menu items, and hours may vary. Call your local restaurant before heading out, especially if you’re planning to visit during the busy lunch or dinner hours.
Veterans Day 2026 Retail and Shopping Discounts
Veterans Day savings aren’t limited to restaurants! Several national retailers are offering special discounts for veterans, active-duty military members, and eligible military families. Whether you’re shopping for holiday gifts, clothing, or everyday essentials, these offers are worth checking out.
- Kohl’s – 30% off qualifying in-store purchases November 10–11 for veterans, military members, and eligible family members. Valid identification required; exclusions apply.
- Target – 20% off one qualifying purchase November 5–11 for verified military community members through Target Circle. Verification required.
- Walgreens – 20% off eligible regular-priced merchandise in stores November 8–11 for veterans, active-duty military, and immediate family members. myWalgreens membership and proof of service required.
- Tractor Supply Co. – 10% off on November 11 for eligible military members and veterans verified through the Hometown Heroes program.
- Rack Room Shoes – 20% off in-store purchases on November 11 for veterans, active-duty military, and eligible dependents with valid ID.
- Five Below – 10% off November 9–15 for eligible military shoppers.
- Academy Sports + Outdoors – 10% off eligible purchases in stores and online through November 11 for military members and first responders.
- Office Depot / OfficeMax – 20% off qualifying purchases online and in stores with military verification through December 31, 2026.
Year-Round Military Shopping Discounts
You don’t have to wait until Veterans Day to save! These retailers also offer ongoing military discounts:
- Home Depot – 10% off eligible purchases for verified veterans, active-duty service members, and spouses, subject to an annual discount limit.
- Lowe’s – 10% off eligible purchases for verified military members, veterans, and spouses.
- Under Armour – 20% off eligible purchases online and at Brand House stores, with different discounts at Factory House locations.
- Kohl’s – 15% off qualifying in-store purchases every Monday for eligible military members, veterans, and their families.
- Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s – 10% off eligible merchandise through the Legendary Salute military discount program.
Shopping tip: Bring proof of military service and check each retailer’s exclusions before making a special trip. Some discounts require advance online verification or membership in a free rewards program.
Check out this local list that we made – and if you know of more, please let us know. This is a living document and there are so many!
Omaha Military Discounts That Truly Matter
Services:
Great Clips – Free haircut on Nov 11 or receive a free haircut card for later.
Sport Clips – Free haircuts at participating locations.
True Rest Float Spa – Free float for veterans and active-duty military every 11th of the month.
Entertainment & Travel:
AMC Theatres – Military discounts vary by location (check listings).
Disney World – Discounted 4-, 5-, and 6-day Military Salute Tickets through Dec 19, 2025.
Legoland – Free and discounted tickets for military families.
National Parks – Free annual or lifetime pass for veterans and Gold Star Families.
Regal Cinemas – Up to 25% off with WeSalute+ ID.
Six Flags – 20% off general admission, up to 40% off with select promo.
Spare Time Omaha – $20 game card.
These are great ways to enjoy Veterans Day discounts in Omaha and beyond if you’re planning a family outing or trip.
Omaha-Area Events
Veterans Day at Memorial Park
📍 Omaha | Nov 11 | 11 a.m.
Ceremony followed by lunch at Post #1.
Lincoln’s Veterans Parade
📍 Downtown Lincoln | Nov 16 | 2 p.m.
These community events pair perfectly with the Veterans Day discounts in Omaha listed throughout this guide.
Omaha-Area Local Freebies on Veterans Day
Hy-Vee – Free breakfast 6–10 a.m., plus 15% off groceries
The Durham Museum – Free admission + hot dog meal for veterans and families.
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo – Free admission for veterans, active duty, and families (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Scooter’s Coffee – Free medium drink for veterans and active duty with ID.
IQ Car Wash – Free car wash for veterans.
Pottawattamie Conservation Parks – Free entry for vets and families all weekend.
Sugar’s Lounge & Diner – Free meal for vets 8 a.m.–2 p.m.
Fareway Stores – 15% off for vets and service members.
Omaha Tap House – Free meal (dine-in only, up to $14.99).
Goose’s Bar & Grill (Papillion) – Free meal for veterans.
Frosty Mug Sports Bar – Free meal for vets.
Porky Butts – Free pulled pork sandwich with chips & drink.
Vincenzo’s Omaha – Free lunch for veterans 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Local Beer Patio & Kitchen – Happy hour pricing all day for vets.
Kikker’s Bar & Grill (Council Bluffs) – Free breakfast bar 8 a.m.–noon.
Wing and Rings – Free lunch for veterans on Veterans Day.
And don’t miss local favorites giving back – Sprinkle Joy Frozen Custard is offering free custard to military members, and Oak & Acorn Toy Store is proudly veteran-owned.
Veteran-Owned Businesses to Support Year-Round
Supporting veteran-owned businesses in Omaha is one of the best ways to keep the spirit of Veterans Day going all year long.
Vintage Oasis – Hanscom Park
Vis Major Brewing Co. – Hanscom Park
Oak & Acorn Toy Store – Downtown Omaha
Dry Spokes – Hanscom Park
Hawaii Fluid Art – Central Omaha
Dundee Double Shot – Dundee
Anna’s Place – Downtown
Johnny Ricco’s Brooklyn Pizza – Mobile food truck
The Table – Downtown Omaha
Affordable Computer Repair – Bellevue
Cornhusker Nutrition – Bellevue
American Academies of Martial Arts – Bellevue
Plan Your Perfect Veterans Day in Omaha
Want to make the most of your Veterans Day discounts in Omaha? Here’s a full itinerary built around free meals, local events, and veteran-owned spots, all in and around the metro.
Morning – Breakfast & Gratitude
- Start at Hy-Vee for a free Veterans Day breakfast (6–10 a.m.) and a big thank-you from the community.
- Grab your free Scooter’s Coffee drink afterward.
- Then head to Memorial Park for the Veterans Day ceremony at 11 a.m. – one of Omaha’s most meaningful gatherings.
Midday – Lunch & Local Flavor
- Choose your favorite spot: Wing and Rings, Porky Butts, or Omaha Tap House for a free lunch.
- Save room for dessert at Sprinkle Joy Frozen Custard – free for military members.
- Or, enjoy free admission and lunch at The Durham Museum, which celebrates veterans with a classic soda fountain meal.
Afternoon – Explore & Unwind
- Spend the afternoon at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo (free admission for veterans and families).
- Looking for calm instead of crowds? True Rest Float Spa offers free float sessions to veterans every 11th of the month.
- Or grab a quiet coffee at Dundee Double Shot, a veteran-owned café known for its cozy neighborhood vibe.
Evening – Dinner & Drinks
- End your day with a complimentary meal at Vincenzo’s Omaha (11–4 p.m.) or hit Local Beer Patio & Kitchen, where happy hour pricing lasts all day for vets.
- If you’re in Papillion, Goose’s Bar & Grill offers another free meal option.
- Wrap up your night at Vis Major Brewing Co., a veteran-owned brewery, and toast to those who’ve served, including yourself.
Find Year-Round Military Savings
Even after November 11, plenty of Omaha businesses continue to offer Veterans Day discounts in Omaha year-round.
Check out our Omaha Military Discounts Guide for ongoing savings on dining, shopping, and entertainment.
To All Who Served: Thank You
Whether you’re grabbing a free meal, exploring local attractions, or supporting a veteran-owned business, Omaha is proud to honor your service this Veterans Day.
Veterans Day in Omaha: Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best Veterans Day discounts in Omaha?
You’ll find Veterans Day discounts in Omaha at popular restaurants like Applebee’s, Wing and Rings, and Texas Roadhouse, plus local favorites such as Omaha Tap House, Vincenzo’s, and Sprinkle Joy Frozen Custard. Many Omaha-area attractions — including the Zoo, The Durham Museum, and Hy-Vee — also offer free meals or admission for veterans and their families.
Do I need military ID to use Veterans Day discounts in Omaha?
Most locations require proof of service such as a military ID, VA card, or WeSalute+ ID. Some offers, like Dunkin’s free donut or Sonic’s half-price shakes, do not require ID. When in doubt, call ahead to confirm each location’s policy.
Are Veterans Day discounts in Omaha available for family members too?
Yes, many Omaha-area events and attractions extend offers to veterans’ families. The Henry Doorly Zoo, The Durham Museum, and Hy-Vee’s breakfast all include immediate family members. Always check each business’s fine print for family eligibility.
Which Omaha businesses are veteran-owned?
Some of Omaha’s top veteran-owned businesses include Oak & Acorn Toy Store, Vis Major Brewing Co., Vintage Oasis, Dry Spokes, Dundee Double Shot, and The Table. Supporting these local spots keeps your dollars in the community and honors those who’ve served.
Can I use Veterans Day discounts in Omaha after November 11?
Some offers — like Freddy’s combo meal card or Home Depot’s 10% year-round discount — extend beyond Veterans Day. For ongoing savings, visit Justin’s Omaha Military Discounts Guide for year-round deals.
What events are happening in Omaha for Veterans Day 2025?
Omaha hosts several Veterans Day events, including the Memorial Park ceremony, the Bellevue Veterans Parade, and the Salute to Veterans Pancake Breakfast. Many state parks and local attractions also offer free entry and family activities to celebrate.
