South Florida residents can celebrate Veterans Day on November 11 with a variety of free activities and special savings that recognize the sacrifices of our military men and women. The day offers complimentary entry to several state parks, community ceremonies honoring veterans, and a long list of discounts at restaurants and retailers for active‑duty personnel, veterans and their families.
Free admission to state parks
All state parks in the region open their gates free of charge on Veterans Day, allowing anyone to enjoy the natural beauty and historic sites. Notable parks with military heritage include:
- Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound – once the site of Camp Murphy, a World War II training camp.
- Avalon State Park in Fort Pierce – preserves coastal ecosystems and historic landmarks.
- MacArthur Beach State Park in North Palm Beach County – offers beachfront trails and educational programs.
In addition to free day‑long access, active‑duty service members and veterans receive a 25 % discount on annual entrance passes at these parks.
Veterans Day ceremonies across the Treasure Coast
Several South Florida communities are hosting public ceremonies to honor service members:
- Palm Beach Gardens – The annual Veterans Salute Celebration will take place at the Veterans Plaza Amphitheater at 11 a.m. Engineer and veteran Clint Lowe will deliver the keynote address. Pets are not permitted at the event.
- Jupiter – A ceremony at the Veterans Memorial on Military Trail begins at 9 a.m., focusing on the legacy of local veterans.
- Port St. Lucie – Veterans Memorial Park will host a ceremony at 11 a.m. featuring remarks from veterans, musical tributes and a moment of remembrance.
Restaurant and retail discounts for service members
Many national and regional chains are offering complimentary meals, discounts or free items to veterans, active‑duty personnel and, in some cases, their families. Below is a sampling of the deals available on Veterans Day:
- Applebee’s – Free Veterans Day meal from a select menu.
- Buffalo Wild Wings – Ten free boneless wings and fries.
- California Pizza Kitchen – Complimentary beverage and free entrée from a special menu.
- Carrabba’s – Free dine‑in appetizer or dessert with a non‑alcoholic beverage.
- Chili’s – Free Veterans Day meal.
- Dunkin’ – Free classic donut for active‑duty and retired service members.
- Golden Corral – Free buffet meal for eligible service members.
- Hard Rock Cafe – Free classic smashed burger.
- Hooters – Free meal from a special menu with the purchase of a beverage (dine‑in only).
- Miller’s Ale House – 50 % off an entrée.
- Starbucks – Free tall brewed coffee (hot or iced) for service members and military spouses.
- TGI Fridays – Free meal from a select menu between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
- Yard House – Free appetizer.
- Publix – 10 % off groceries for veterans, active‑duty personnel and families with proof of service and an MVP card.
- Target – 20 % off one qualifying storewide purchase for Target Circle members who are verified military, veterans or family members (through Nov. 11).
- Kohl’s – 30 % off in‑store purchases on Nov. 10‑11 for military, veterans and families with valid ID.
These offers provide a meaningful way for businesses to thank those who have served while giving families a chance to enjoy a day out together.
How to take advantage of the savings
Most discounts require proof of service, such as a military ID, veteran ID card or an MVP (Military/Veteran/Patriot) card. Some retailers ask for verification through their loyalty programs. It is advisable to bring the appropriate identification and, when possible, to confirm the specific terms on the retailer’s website before visiting.
Veterans Day in South Florida combines remembrance with community generosity, offering free access to natural and historic sites, heartfelt ceremonies and a wide range of savings that support families who have given so much for our nation.
Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.
