Veterans Day 2026: Free Meals, Store Discounts & Full Open/Closed Schedule
Today, November 11, 2026, Americans across the nation observe Veterans Day, honoring all military veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces. Because Veterans Day is an official federal holiday, millions of people are searching to find out which public services are paused and where active military personnel, retirees, and veterans can claim exclusive free meals and shopping discounts.
Whether you need to know if the post office is delivering mail today, if the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open, or where to find the best restaurant perks, here is your definitive, up-to-the-minute guide for Veterans Day 2026.
At a Glance: What is Open and Closed on Veterans Day 2026?
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------------+ | VETERANS DAY 2026 HOLIDAY STATUS | +-------------------------------------------------------------------------------+ | * U.S. Postal Service (USPS): CLOSED (No regular mail delivery) | | * Major Banks (Chase, BoA, Wells Fargo): CLOSED (Online banking & ATMs OPEN) | | * U.S. Stock Markets (NYSE, NASDAQ): OPEN (Bond markets CLOSED) | | * Major Retailers (Costco, Target, Walmart): OPEN with special sales | | * Public Schools & Federal Offices: CLOSED | +-------------------------------------------------------------------------------+
Holiday Closures: Post Office, Banks, and Markets
Because Veterans Day is recognized by the federal government, non-essential federal agencies and public services observe adjusted schedules:
| Service / Institution | Operating Status on Nov 11, 2026 | Important Notes for Consumers |
| U.S. Postal Service (USPS) | Closed | No residential or business mail delivery; Priority Mail Express runs on limited holiday routes. |
| FedEx & UPS | Open | Most retail and delivery services operate normally, with minor delays possible on ground shipments. |
| National & Regional Banks | Closed | Federal Reserve branches are closed; teller counters are unavailable, but mobile apps and ATMs function 24/7. |
| U.S. Stock Markets (NYSE & NASDAQ) | Open | Equities trade during regular market hours (9:30 AM – 4:00 PM EST); SIFMA recommends bond markets remain closed. |
| Public Schools & Universities | Closed | Most public K-12 districts and state universities observe the federal holiday. Private schools may vary. |
| Federal & State Courts | Closed | All federal government offices, DMV locations, and city halls are closed today. |
Best Veterans Day 2026 Free Meals and Restaurant Deals
Top restaurant chains across the United States are welcoming veterans and active-duty service members with free entrees, complimentary breakfasts, and steep dining discounts today. Make sure to bring a valid military ID or proof of service to redeem these nationwide offers:
1. Texas Roadhouse
Veterans and active military can pick up a free dinner voucher at participating Texas Roadhouse locations today, or dine in for a free lunch menu featuring legendary sirloin steaks, pulled pork, and fresh-baked rolls with cinnamon honey butter.
2. Applebee’s Grill + Bar
Celebrating over a decade of military appreciation, Applebee’s offers a full complimentary full-size entree from a curated seven-dish Veterans Day menu, along with a $5 bounce-back dining card for future visits.
3. Starbucks
Veterans, military service members, and military spouses can enjoy a free tall (12-ounce) hot or iced brewed coffee at participating U.S. company-operated stores nationwide.
4. IHOP (International House of Pancakes)
From 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM today, veterans and active-duty personnel get a free stack of Red, White, and Blueberry Pancakes or a classic pancake combo.
5. Chick-fil-A
Select franchised Chick-fil-A locations offer a free chicken biscuit during breakfast hours or a classic Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich during lunch and dinner. (Note: Check local store participation via the Chick-fil-A mobile app).
6. Dunkin' & Krispy Kreme
Dunkin': One free donut of your choice to veterans and active service members, no purchase necessary.
Krispy Kreme: Free small hot or iced coffee paired with any traditional glazed doughnut.
Retail Sales & Seasonal Outerwear Deals for Veterans Day 2026
Veterans Day also marks the unofficial kickoff to early holiday shopping and Black Friday warm-up sales. Major department stores, wholesale clubs, and specialty apparel retailers are slashing prices on cold-weather gear:
Costco & Sam's Club: Open for regular warehouse shopping hours, featuring warehouse-exclusive military membership bonus cards and electronics deals.
Target & Walmart: Offering 10% to 20% military appreciation discounts across home appliances, footwear, and winter essentials.
Home Depot & Lowe's: Everyday 10% military discount applicable in-store and online on tools and winter weather preparations.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is today a federal holiday in the United States?
Yes, November 11 is an official federal holiday recognized by the U.S. government. All federal employees receive a paid day off, and non-essential government operations are suspended.
Does mail run on Veterans Day?
No, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) does not deliver regular residential or commercial mail on Veterans Day. Private carriers like UPS and FedEx operate normally for most scheduled deliveries.
What proof of service is required for free Veterans Day meals?
Most restaurants accept a Military ID card (active, reserve, or retired), a DD-214 discharge certificate, a Veterans Affairs (VA) health card, or proof of membership in a veterans' organization like the VFW or American Legion.