Cajun-spiced chicken & shrimp on a bed of garlic mashed potatoes.
View Details →Applebee's Veterans Day Free Meal 2026
Free meal for active duty and retired military on November 11 at participating locations
Applebee's offers a free meal to active duty military members and veterans on Veterans Day, November 11. The free meal is available for dine-in only at participating locations and covers a selection of items from a special veterans day menu. No purchase is necessary but proof of military service is required.
Who Qualifies for the Free Applebee's Veterans Day Meal
The following categories of service members typically qualify, with accepted proof of service listed alongside each.
| Who Qualifies | Accepted Proof |
|---|---|
| Active Duty Military | Military ID card |
| Retired Military Members | Military ID or retirement card |
| National Guard Members | Military ID |
| Military Reservists | Military ID |
| Veterans | DD-214, VA card, or veteran ID |
What Is on the Veterans Day Free Menu
Applebee's creates a special limited menu for Veterans Day each year. Items on the free meal menu typically include popular entrees like burgers, chicken dishes, and pasta. The exact menu varies each year and is announced by Applebee's in advance of November 11. Most participating locations also keep the full standard menu available, so guests dining alongside a veteran can order normally and pay regular prices (prices may vary by location).
Previous Veterans Day Free Meal Items
Applebee's creates a new Veterans Day menu each year with rotating free meal options. Past Veterans Day menus have included items such as the Double Crunch Bone-In Wings, Fiesta Lime Chicken, Chicken Tenders Platter, Oriental Chicken Salad, a bacon cheeseburger, and select pasta dishes. The exact 2026 Veterans Day menu will be announced by Applebee's closer to November 11. The published list typically includes six to eight options spanning chicken, burger, salad, and pasta categories so that most dietary preferences are covered.
Popular Veterans Day Entree Options
Items that typically appear on the Veterans Day free menu at participating locations (prices may vary by location).
Marinated grilled chicken topped with Mexi-ranch on Spanish rice.
View Details →Hand-breaded crispy tenders with two sides and dipping sauce.
View Details →Grilled chicken and broccoli over fettuccine in creamy Alfredo.
View Details →Veterans Day FAQ
What day is the Applebee's Veterans Day free meal?
The Applebee's Veterans Day free meal is available on November 11 each year. The offer is typically available all day from open to close at participating locations on Veterans Day.
Do I need to make a reservation for Veterans Day at Applebee's?
Reservations are not required but Applebee's locations are typically very busy on Veterans Day. Arriving early or during off-peak hours such as mid-morning or early afternoon can help reduce wait times. Some locations may offer call-ahead seating.
Can I get the Veterans Day meal for takeout?
The Veterans Day free meal offer is typically for dine-in only at most participating Applebee's locations. Takeout and delivery are usually not eligible for the free meal promotion. Confirm with your local restaurant.