Are Schools and Banks Open on Veterans Day 2024? Check What’s Open and Closed Here!

Veterans Day is observed on November 11 every year in honour of military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. 

Originally called Armistice Day, this day was first celebrated on November 11, 1919, to end World War I. 

In 1938, it was made a national holiday to promote world peace and was still called Armistice Day. In 1954, the holiday was officially changed to Veterans Day to honour all veterans, not just those who served in World War I.

Since Veterans Day is a federal holiday, all non-essential federal offices are closed, and banks, post offices, and schools may also close. 

However, not all Americans are guaranteed a day off. Private-sector employees might or might not receive the holiday, depending on their employer’s policy.

Here’s What’s Open and Closed on Veterans Day 2024

On Veterans Day 2024, which falls on November 11, various businesses and services will have different operating hours. Here’s a summary of what will be open and closed:

Closed

• Banks: Major banks such as Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank will be closed, though ATMs will remain accessible.
• Federal Government Offices: Non-essential federal government offices will be closed.
• USPS: The United States Postal Service will not deliver mail, and retail locations will be closed.
• Schools: The majority of schools across the country will be closed. For information on school closures, one must visit the website of their local school district. Most teachers and students can take advantage of a three-day weekend since Veterans Day falls on a Monday this year. 

Open

• Retail Stores: Many retailers, including Walmart, Target, Costco, and Trader Joe's, will operate during regular hours. Other stores like Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowe's will also be open.
• Restaurants: Numerous restaurants offer free meals or discounts to veterans, including Texas Roadhouse and Starbucks.
• Pharmacies: Chains like CVS and Walgreens will be open but may have varying hours.
• Shipping Services: Shipping companies like UPS and FedEx will maintain regular operations on Veterans Day. This includes deliveries and drop-off services at their locations.

Restaurants Offering Free Meals for Veterans

Numerous restaurants across the United States are offering free meals and special deals for veterans on Veterans Day, which falls on November 11, 2024. Here’s a summary of notable participants:

• Texas Roadhouse: Free meal for veterans.
• Applebee's: Veterans and active-duty military can enjoy a complimentary meal from a special menu, along with a $5 Bounce Back Card for future visits.
• Buffalo Wild Wings: Offers 10 free boneless wings and fries for veterans and active military with valid ID.
• California Pizza Kitchen: Provides a free entrée and drink from a limited menu, plus a Buy-One-Get-One coupon valid from November 12 to 25.
• Chili's: Veterans can select a free meal from a limited menu featuring various options.
• Denny's: A free Original Grand Slam breakfast is available from 5 a.m. to noon for veterans and active-duty military.
• IHOP: Offers a complimentary Red, White, and Blueberry Pancake Combo from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Olive Garden: Veterans can enjoy a free meal from a special menu.
• Red Robin: Active and retired military members receive a free Tavern Double Burger with bottomless fries.
• Starbucks: Participating locations offer a free tall (12-ounce) hot or iced coffee to veterans, military members, and their spouses.
• Cracker Barrel: Veterans can enjoy a free Sunrise Pancake Special when dining in.
• Firehouse Subs: Offers a free combo meal including a medium sub, drink, and chips or cookies.

Additional Offers

• Dunkin': A free doughnut is available for veterans and active military personnel.
• Little Caesars: Offers a free HOT-N-READY Lunch Combo for veterans from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Krispy Kreme: Provides one free small coffee (hot or iced) along with a doughnut of choice for veterans.

Many of these offers require proof of military service, such as a military ID. It is recommended that veterans check with individual locations about participation and specific terms before visiting. Furthermore, the aforementioned offers may differ and not be accessible at every restaurant.

Also Read| Veterans Day 2024 Explained: Date, History, and Why We Honour It?