Which restaurants offer Veterans Day free meals in Connecticut in 2026?

Participating national chains across Connecticut - including Chili's, Applebee's, Texas Roadhouse, and Golden Corral - offer free meals, complimentary entrées, or dining vouchers for veterans and active-duty military on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.

Do Connecticut State Parks offer free admission on Veterans Day?

Yes. Connecticut state recreation lands and parks offer free day-use admission or discounted entrance permits for veterans, service-disabled military personnel, and Gold Star families.

What military identification is accepted in Connecticut?

Restaurants and stores in Connecticut accept a Common Access Card (CAC), Veteran Health ID (VHIC), Veteran ID Card (VIC), DD214, or a Connecticut driver's license featuring the official veteran designation.

Are military discounts available near Connecticut bases?

Yes. Commercial corridors surrounding Naval Submarine Base New London (Groton - 'Submarine Capital of the World') host the highest concentration of participating restaurants and retail discounts in the state.

Last updated: October 13, 2026 • Connecticut (CT)

Connecticut Veterans Day Deals 2026

Discover restaurant offers, retail discounts, travel savings, and military promotions available throughout Connecticut. Find participating locations in major cities, deals near military bases, and state veteran benefits.

Local planning guide

Check participation

5 Major Metro Areas

Confirmed for 2026

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Visiting Connecticut Locations on Veterans Day

Nearly all casual dining restaurants in Connecticut operate as independent franchises. Operating hours, promotional seating, and beverage terms may vary by location. Always call your local branch before traveling.

🏙️ Popular Connecticut Cities & Metro Areas

City Directory

Use these city names when checking a brand’s official location finder. A national offer does not confirm every local restaurant:

Bridgeport

Check local participation

Primary ZIP: 06601 State: CT

Check nearby locations in Bridgeport directly for participation, hours and proof-of-service rules.

New Haven

Check local participation

Primary ZIP: 06501 State: CT

Check nearby locations in New Haven directly for participation, hours and proof-of-service rules.

Hartford

Check local participation

Primary ZIP: 06101 State: CT

Check nearby locations in Hartford directly for participation, hours and proof-of-service rules.

Groton / New London

Check local participation

Primary ZIP: 06340 State: CT

Check nearby locations in Groton / New London directly for participation, hours and proof-of-service rules.

Stamford

Check local participation

Primary ZIP: 06901 State: CT

Check nearby locations in Stamford directly for participation, hours and proof-of-service rules.

🏰 Major Military Installations in Connecticut

Base Communities

These installations help identify nearby communities. Call restaurants and stores to confirm their current offers:

🎖️

Naval Submarine Base New London (Groton - 'Submarine Capital of the World')

Check businesses near Naval Submarine Base New London (Groton - 'Submarine Capital of the World') for their own participation and eligibility rules.

🍽️ National Brand Guides for Connecticut

Check current brand status

Confirmed for 2026

Chili's Grill & Bar

One free entrée from select holiday menu

View Chili's Details →

Confirmed

Applebee's Neighborhood Grill

Complimentary full-size meal from an exclusive Veterans Day dining menu.

View Applebee's Details →

Ongoing Military Program

Lowe's Home Improvement

10% off eligible full-priced purchases

View Lowe's Discount →

Ongoing Military Program

The Home Depot

10% off eligible items

View Home Depot Discount →

Check Connecticut veteran benefits

State benefits have their own eligibility and application rules. Contact your state veterans affairs office for current details.

Find a state veterans affairs office ↗