(PENSACOLA, Fla.) — Veterans Day is Wednesday, Nov. 11, and Pensacola has several events planned to recognize the men and women who have served in the U.S. military.
Residents can attend a downtown parade, a ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park, and an evening poetry gathering. Local restaurants and national businesses are also offering free meals and discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has proclaimed November Veterans Appreciation Month, recognizing the contributions of veterans and military families throughout the state.
Photo Credit: Military-themed composite image
Veterans Day Events in Pensacola
Downtown Veterans Day Parade and Ceremony
Pensacola's Veterans Day celebration will include a downtown parade and a ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park, 200 S. 10th Ave.
Activities are scheduled to begin at 9 a.m., with food trucks, exhibits, and community displays. The parade is scheduled for 10 a.m., beginning near Spring and Main streets.
An 11 a.m. ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park will feature retired Navy Cmdr. Keith Hoskins as the keynote speaker. Blue Anchor Belle is also scheduled to perform patriotic music from the World War II era.
The program is expected to conclude around noon.
A Veteran Is More Than a Soldier
Not all Veterans Day events will involve parades and ceremonies.
Northwest Florida Poets is hosting an open-mic gathering titled "A Veteran Is More Than a Soldier" from 5 to 7 p.m. at 223 Palafox Place in Pensacola.
Veterans and other community members are invited to read poetry, share personal stories, or simply listen.
The event is free and open to the public.
Car Show to Support Veterans on Nov. 14
The Veterans Day observances will continue Saturday, Nov. 14, with the sixth annual Full Throttle for Vets Show & Shine at Five Flags Speedway, 7451 Pine Forest Road.
The event begins at 9 a.m. and will feature cars, trucks, food, and activities for visitors.
Organizers are working with Healing Paws for Warriors to raise awareness and funds for veterans. The organization helps veterans through programs involving trained service dogs.
Free Meals, Coffee and Food Offers for Veterans on Nov. 11 [(2026 Veterans Day discounts, free meals and other retail offers - VA News)]
Several restaurant chains are thanking veterans and active-duty service members with complimentary meals and other offers.
The Department of Veterans Affairs has published a list of participating businesses and their Veterans Day promotions.
AAFES: (Army & Air Force Exchange Service): From Nov. 6-12, Exchange shoppers can find discounts on electronics, clothing, shoes and other merchandise. MILITARY STAR cardholders can receive an additional 10% off select items.
Applebee’s: Veterans and active-duty service members can receive a free entrée from a special Veterans Day menu. The offer is for dine-in customers, and proof of service is required. Drinks and tips are not included.
Aspen Creek Grill: Veterans and active-duty personnel can receive a $15 meal voucher between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. The voucher is valid through Dec. 24. Military ID is required, and the offer is for dine-in customers.
Bob Evans: Veterans and active-duty service members can receive a free meal from a special menu. The offer is for dine-in customers with valid military identification.
Bonefish Grill: Veterans, active-duty personnel, and eligible family members can receive a free Bang Bang Shrimp entrée and a nonalcoholic beverage with military identification.
Chili’s: Participating restaurants will offer veterans and active-duty service members a free entrée from a selected Veterans Day menu. The offer is for dine-in customers with military identification.
Circle K: Veterans can receive a free medium hot or iced coffee at participating locations. No additional purchase is required, but you must present valid military identification.
Chipotle: Veterans and active-duty personnel can receive free chips with a choice of guacamole, queso blanco, or salsa with a $5 purchase. The offer is available at participating locations with military identification.
Denny’s: Veterans and active-duty personnel can receive a free Original Grand Slam breakfast from 5 a.m. to noon. The offer is for dine-in customers with valid military identification.
Red Lobster: Veterans, active-duty service members, and reservists can receive a free Shrimp & Chips meal. The offer is for dine-in customers with military identification.
Red Robin: Veterans and active-duty personnel can receive a free Red's Big Tavern Burger with bottomless fries. Military identification is required, and the offer is for dine-in customers.
Ruby Tuesday: Veterans, active-duty personnel, reservists, and National Guard members can receive a free meal valued at up to $17.99. The offer includes a choice of 13 selected entrées, the Garden Bar, and a bottomless drink. Proof of military service is required, and the offer is available for dine-in customers at participating locations.
Starbucks: Veterans, service members, and military spouses can receive a free 12-ounce hot or iced brewed coffee at participating stores.
Texas Roadhouse: Veterans and active-duty military personnel may qualify for a complimentary Veterans Day meal offer.
Shopping Discounts for Veterans
Veterans Day savings are not limited to restaurants.
Food Lion: Veterans and active-duty service members receive 10% off in‑store on Nov. 11, 2026, with military ID and MVP card; exclusions apply.
Kohl’s: Provides 30% off in‑store for military, veterans, and families on November 10-11, 2026, with valid ID; exclusions apply.
Publix: Offers 10% off groceries on Nov. 11, 2026, for Veterans, active duty, and families with proof of service; standard exclusions apply.
Target: In conjunction with Veterans Day, Target is offering a Target Circle Military Appreciation Discount of 20% off one qualifying storewide purchase from Nov. 5 through Nov. 11 to verified military members, Veterans, and their families who are Target Circle members.
Tractor Supply Company: Verified military through Hometown Heroes receive 10% off on Veterans Day, plus year‑round perks like quarterly 5% off coupons and 2% rewards.
Walgreens: Exclusive 20% off eligible regular-priced items in-store for Veterans, active-duty military personnel, and their immediate families. Standard exclusions and restrictions apply.
Free Haircuts for Veterans
Great Clips is offering free haircuts to veterans and active-duty service members on Nov. 11.
Customers who are not veterans can also request a free haircut card to give to a veteran when they receive a haircut that day.
Sport Clips locations are offering free or discounted haircuts to eligible veterans and military personnel.
Photo Credit: Military-themed composite image
Check Before You Go
Discounts may vary by location, and some offers require advance enrollment, military identification, or a store membership account.
Veterans and military families should confirm the offer with their local store before shopping. Not all national promotions are necessarily available at every Pensacola-area location.
OpGov.News will continue to share updates on Veterans Day events and activities throughout November.
To all our veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard and Reserve personnel, and their families, thank you for your service, dedication, and sacrifices. We recognize the sacrifices your loved ones make as well.
From all of us at OpGov.News, thank you for your service. We salute you!
For corrections or additional information about this report, contact james.b@lead4earth.org or leave a comment below.
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