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
Veterans Day 2026: Free Haircuts and Services
Restaurants and retailers aren’t the only businesses thanking veterans this November. Several service providers are offering complimentary haircuts and other benefits to veterans and active-duty military members.
- Great Clips – Free haircut on November 11, 2026, for veterans and active-duty military at U.S. salons. You can also pick up a free haircut card to use later. Cards are valid through December 4, 2026. Even non-military customers can request a card to give to a veteran or service member.
- Sport Clips – Free haircuts for veterans and active-duty service members on November 11 at participating locations. Bring proof of military service and check with your local salon before visiting. Sport Clips is also raising money for its Help A Hero Scholarship program, which supports veterans pursuing education and career training.
- True REST Float Spa – Participating locations offer complimentary float therapy sessions to veterans and active-duty military members on the 11th of every month, not just Veterans Day. Contact the spa to confirm availability, eligibility, and reservation requirements.
Helpful tip: Check with individual locations before visiting. Some services require appointments, and participation may vary by location.
Veterans Day 2026: Entertainment, Attractions & Travel Discounts
Looking for something to do beyond enjoying a free meal? Veterans Day is also an opportunity to explore museums, parks, and attractions, with special offers for veterans, active-duty military members, and their families.
Omaha-Area Attractions
- Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium – The Zoo offered free admission to veterans, active-duty military, retirees, and their families on Veterans Day in 2025. We’re watching for confirmation of the 2026 promotion. The Zoo also offers discounted military admission throughout the year.
- The Durham Museum – This Omaha favorite celebrated Veterans Day in 2025 with free museum admission for veterans and family members, plus complimentary hot dog meals for veterans at the Soda Fountain. The 2026 Veterans Day offer has not yet been announced.
National Attractions and Travel Offers
- National Parks – Free entrance to participating National Park Service sites on November 11, 2026, for U.S. citizens and residents. Veterans and eligible military members may also qualify for free annual or lifetime America the Beautiful passes.
- National Wildlife Refuges – Free entrance on November 11 at participating U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands that normally charge admission. Special activity and permit fees may still apply.
- National WWI Museum and Memorial (Kansas City) – Free admission for veterans and active-duty military members November 6–9 and November 11. Other visitors receive half-price admission.
- LEGOLAND Florida and New York – Free admission for eligible veterans and military personnel through November 30, 2026, with discounted admission available for accompanying guests.
- Vet Tix – Veterans and eligible military members can register for access to donated tickets for concerts, sporting events, performing arts, and other entertainment throughout the year. Availability varies by event.
Planning tip: Check each attraction’s official website before visiting. Veterans Day promotions may have special admission requirements, limited availability, or restrictions on accompanying family members.
Veterans Day 2026 Events in Omaha, Bellevue & Surrounding Communities
Veterans Day isn’t just about discounts and free meals. It’s also an opportunity to come together as a community, honor those who have served, and celebrate the military families who are such an important part of life in the Omaha area.
From parades to remembrance ceremonies, here are some of the local Veterans Day events happening in 2026.
Nebraska’s Official Veterans Day Parade – Bellevue
Saturday, November 7, 2026 | 10 a.m.
Location: Olde Towne Bellevue, Mission Avenue, Bellevue, NE 68005
What better place to celebrate Nebraska’s Official Veterans Day Parade than Bellevue, home to Offutt Air Force Base and generations of military families?
Head to Olde Towne Bellevue on Saturday morning as the community comes together to honor veterans, active-duty service members, and everyone who has worn our nation’s uniform.
The parade begins at 10 a.m. along Mission Avenue, making it a great opportunity to bring the family, wave a flag, and show your appreciation for those who have served.
Whether you’re a longtime Bellevue resident or new to the area, this is a wonderful way to experience the community’s strong military connections.
Admission: Free to watch.
Council Bluffs Veterans Day Parade
Saturday, November 7 · 11 a.m.
Another local parade, taking place around Pearl and Main Streets in Council Bluffs.
Veterans Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony — Omaha VA
Tuesday, November 10 · 11–11:30 a.m.
A short ceremony featuring remarks and a wreath laying at the Ambulatory Care Center, 4101 Woolworth Avenue, Omaha. Free admission.
Omaha-Area Local Freebies on Veterans Day 2026
Some of the best Veterans Day offers are happening right here in our own backyard!
Businesses throughout Omaha, Bellevue, Papillion, La Vista, and surrounding communities are showing their appreciation with free meals, special discounts, and opportunities to give back.
Here are some local offers to check out on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
Free Meals and Food Offers Around Omaha
- Luigi’s Italian Restaurant – Bellevue: Veterans can enjoy a free meal from a special Italian menu from 11 a.m.–2 p.m., courtesy of Justin Ogburn with Revel Realty and Wyatt Robertson with Veterans United Home Loans. Military ID required. See our featured Luigi’s offer above for the full menu and details.
- Hy-Vee – Omaha Metro: Free buffet-style breakfast for veterans and active-duty military members from 6–10 a.m. at Hy-Vee locations with hot food service. Plus, receive 15% off eligible groceries on November 11, in-store or online.
- Fernando’s Mexican Restaurant – Omaha: Free #1 Taco Plate for veterans and active-duty military members on November 11, from 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Check with the restaurant for additional eligibility details.
- Pizza Ranch – Omaha: Free buffet for veterans with valid military ID on November 11 at participating locations, including the Omaha restaurant at 3010 S. 84th Street.
More Ways to Support Veterans Locally
Sprinkle Joy Frozen Custard – La Vista
From November 10–15, veterans and active-duty military members who present qualifying ID receive one certificate for a free regular-size custard for every $25 in gift cards purchased.
Even better, Sprinkle Joy is donating 5% of all November sales to Moving Veterans Forward, a local nonprofit supporting veterans.
Find Sprinkle Joy at 9635 Giles Road in La Vista, and see our featured offer above for complete details.
A Special Veterans Day Museum Experience
Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum – Ashland
On November 11, from 7:30–9 a.m., the museum is hosting a special Veterans Day edition of Coffee & Camaraderie.
Veterans, military members, and Gold Star families can enjoy free museum admission, coffee, and breakfast while supplies last. The event also includes a community resource fair connecting military families with local organizations and businesses.
Before you go: Bring proof of military service and check with each business for participation, eligibility, and any restrictions. Veterans Day offers can be popular, and some are available only during specific hours.
Veteran-Owned Businesses and Military Families Making a Difference in Omaha
One of my favorite parts of creating The Midwest Will Move You series is getting to know the people behind the businesses that make our community special.
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to sit down with local business owners, hear their stories, and learn what inspired them to build something right here in the Omaha area.
Some of my favorite interviews have been with fellow veterans and military spouses who, after serving our country or supporting someone who did, chose to put down roots and build businesses in our community.
Here are a few of their stories worth exploring:
- Rent a Vet – Permanent and Christmas Lighting: A veteran-owned business helping Omaha-area homeowners light up their properties, from permanent outdoor lighting to festive Christmas displays.
- American Academies of Martial Arts – Bellevue: Teaching the ancient art of Kung Fu right here in Bellevue, helping students of all ages develop confidence, discipline, and skills that extend well beyond the classroom.
- Wimbro Farms – Near Bellevue: Seasonal beauty rooted locally! From flowers to other farm-grown products, Wimbro Farms brings a little piece of the countryside to the Omaha community.
- Sprinkle Joy Frozen Custard – La Vista: Serving up delicious frozen custard with a side of community generosity. Sprinkle Joy regularly supports local nonprofits, and this November, 5% of its sales will benefit an organization especially close to our hearts: Moving Veterans Forward.
- Oak & Acorn Toy Store – Downtown Omaha: A sensory-friendly toy store in the heart of downtown Omaha, built around creating a welcoming shopping experience for children and families.
Moving Veterans Forward: Helping Veterans Find Their Way Home
Not every veteran’s journey after military service is an easy one.
That’s why organizations like Moving Veterans Forward are so important to our community.
This local nonprofit helps formerly homeless veterans furnish their homes as they transition into stable housing, providing essential household items and helping turn an empty space into a place to call home.
It’s a mission I believe in and an organization I’m proud to support.
And this November, you can help support that mission, too. When you shop at Sprinkle Joy Frozen Custard, 5% of the business’s sales throughout the month will go to Moving Veterans Forward.
Veterans Day is a wonderful reminder to thank those who served. But supporting veteran-owned businesses, military families, and organizations like Moving Veterans Forward is something we can do all year long.
These are the people and stories that make the Midwest a pretty great place to call home.
Plan Your Perfect Veterans Day in Omaha (And Maybe Avoid a Few Lines!)
If you’ve ever driven anywhere near Shadow Lake Towne Center in Papillion on Veterans Day, you know something unusual happens to the traffic pattern.
Texas Roadhouse hands out free meal vouchers to veterans right after people have finished breakfast over at Hy-Vee, and apparently half the Omaha metro decides to show up at the same time. Traffic backs up, cars line up, and suddenly getting through that part of Papillion requires a little extra patience. Last year they literally had the police out directing traffic. It was a little nuts.
And remember, you’re not even getting your free meal that day! You’re picking up a voucher to use later.
So here’s my advice: If Texas Roadhouse is on your Veterans Day itinerary, plan accordingly. Try an off-peak time, if such a thing even exists, and remember that vouchers are only distributed from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
But if I were planning the perfect Veterans Day in Omaha, here’s how I’d spend it.
6–10 a.m. – Start With a Free Breakfast at Hy-Vee
First stop: Hy-Vee’s free Veterans Day breakfast.
Now, you could head to one of the busier Omaha locations, but I have a couple of theories.
Maybe the Plattsmouth Hy-Vee would have a shorter line because it’s a little farther from the heart of the metro.
Or maybe the massive Gretna Hy-Vee would be the better choice. With a store that size, you’d think they could move people through pretty efficiently, right?
I have absolutely no scientific evidence to support either theory, but sometimes you have to take your chances.
Either way, free breakfast is a pretty great way to start the day.
Midmorning – Scoot on Around to Scooter’s
After breakfast, head to Scooter’s Coffee, where anyone presenting a valid military ID can enjoy a free medium drink on Veterans Day.
As Scooter’s puts it, you’re welcome to “scoot on around” for your free drink.
Their words, not mine.
11 a.m.–2 p.m. – Lunch Is on Us at Luigi’s!
Here’s where my Veterans Day itinerary gets a little personal.
This year, I’m teaming up with Wyatt Robertson of Veterans United Home Loans to provide free meals for veterans at Luigi’s Italian Restaurant in Bellevue.
Stop by between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., show your military ID, and choose from a special menu of Italian favorites, including spaghetti, manicotti, chicken parmigiana, and Alfredo.
It’s our way of saying thank you to the veterans who have given so much.
And if you’re going to take advantage of just one Veterans Day offer in Bellevue, I’d love for it to be this one!
Afternoon – Get a Haircut and Float Your Cares Away
After lunch, why not take advantage of a couple of services you might actually need?
Great Clips and participating Sport Clips locations are offering free haircuts to veterans and active-duty military members.
If your hair is already looking sharp, you can skip that stop.
Then, if you can snag an appointment at a participating True REST Float Spa, enjoy a complimentary float session.
An hour of floating in peace and quiet sounds like a pretty good way to spend part of Veterans Day, especially after navigating the crowds.
Just be sure to confirm availability and book ahead if required.
4 p.m. Until Closing – Dinner at Golden Corral
And finally, we’re wrapping up the day with Golden Corral’s Military Appreciation Night.
Veterans and military members can enjoy a free buffet and beverage from 4 p.m. until closing.
Now, I’ll admit, Golden Corral might not be the first restaurant that comes to mind when you’re planning a special dinner.
But someone recently posted a glowing review in the Omaha Food Lovers group about the Bellevue and Council Bluffs locations, and it was enthusiastic enough to make me wonder if it’s time to give Golden Corral another try.
Maybe we’ve been missing out!
Besides, after a day of free breakfast, Italian food, a haircut, and a relaxing float, why not finish with an all-you-can-eat buffet?
A Few Tips Before You Head Out
Veterans Day freebies are a wonderful gesture of appreciation, but they also attract some pretty impressive crowds.
Bring your military ID, check participating locations and offer details, and allow extra time between stops. Some offers require reservations, while others have limited hours or special menus.
And don’t feel like you have to squeeze every single freebie into one day.
Whether you enjoy one complimentary meal or spend the entire day exploring everything Omaha has to offer, the important thing is remembering why we’re celebrating in the first place.
To every veteran in our community: Thank you for your service. Enjoy your day. You’ve earned it!
Veterans Day in Omaha: Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best Veterans Day discounts in Omaha in 2026?
Veterans can find free meals and special discounts at national chains like Applebee’s, Chili’s, Texas Roadhouse, and Golden Corral, plus local businesses throughout Omaha, Bellevue, and Papillion. One special offer this year is a free Italian meal at Luigi’s in Bellevue on November 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., sponsored by Justin Ogburn of Revel Realty and Wyatt Robertson of Veterans United Home Loans. Hy-Vee is also offering free breakfast, and Scooter’s Coffee is providing free medium drinks with valid military ID.
Do I need military ID to receive Veterans Day discounts in Omaha?
Most Veterans Day offers require proof of military service, such as a military ID, veteran identification card, or other accepted documentation. Some businesses have specific identification requirements. For example, Luigi’s and Scooter’s Coffee require valid military ID for their 2026 promotions. Always check the individual business’s requirements before visiting.
Are Veterans Day discounts in Omaha available to military families?
Some Veterans Day promotions include military spouses and family members, but many complimentary meals and services are reserved for veterans and active-duty military personnel. Eligibility varies by business, so check the offer details before bringing the family. Community celebrations, including Nebraska’s Official Veterans Day Parade in Bellevue, are open to everyone.
Which veteran-owned businesses can I support in the Omaha area?
The Omaha metro is home to numerous businesses owned by veterans and military spouses. Some featured in Justin Ogburn’s The Midwest Will Move You interview series include Rent a Vet, American Academies of Martial Arts, Wimbro Farms, Sprinkle Joy Frozen Custard, and Oak & Acorn Toy Store. These businesses offer everything from home services and martial arts instruction to locally grown flowers, frozen custard, and sensory-friendly toys.
Can I use Veterans Day discounts in Omaha after November 11?
Yes! Some promotions extend beyond Veterans Day. For example, Texas Roadhouse distributes free meal vouchers on November 11 that can be redeemed on a future visit, while Sprinkle Joy Frozen Custard’s special military gift-card promotion runs November 10–15, 2026. Many retailers also offer ongoing military discounts throughout the year. Visit our Omaha Military Discounts Guide for additional year-round savings.
What Veterans Day events are happening in Omaha and Bellevue in 2026?
Nebraska’s Official Veterans Day Parade takes place Saturday, November 7, at 10 a.m. along Mission Avenue in Olde Towne Bellevue. The Council Bluffs Veterans Day Parade is also scheduled for November 7 at 11 a.m. Omaha’s VA Ambulatory Care Center will hold a wreath-laying ceremony on November 10 at 11 a.m. Veterans Day itself falls on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, with special meals, discounts, and community activities throughout the metro.
