Utah is preparing to honor the men and women who have served the United States with a full lineup of Veterans Day events, parades, and special offers. From free meals and museum admission to community gatherings, there are many ways to show gratitude across the state this year.
Community Events and Ceremonies
Every November, Utah cities host events that bring residents together to celebrate the courage and sacrifice of U.S. military veterans. Here are some of the major ceremonies and parades happening across the state:
Celebration of Veterans 2025 — Orem
Date: Saturday, Nov. 8
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: SCERA Center for the Arts
This free, family-friendly event includes patriotic performances, a Parade of Service Flags, and military exhibits. Visitors can also tour the Orem Heritage Museum, which will be open with special displays honoring veterans.
Veterans Outdoor Devotional — Ogden
Date: Sunday, Nov. 9
Time: 4 p.m.
Location: Barker Park
This non-denominational service welcomes people of all faiths. Retired Lt. Gen. Walter E. Piatt will lead the devotional, which includes music and messages reflecting on military service and sacrifice.
Riverton Veterans Day Program
Date: Monday, Nov. 10
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Sandra Lloyd Performing Arts Center
Riverton City invites the community to an evening of patriotic music by the Riverton Jazz Band, followed by refreshments and a tribute to local veterans.
Layton Veterans Parade and Ceremony
Date: Tuesday, Nov. 11
Time: 11:11 a.m.
Location: Layton Commons Park
Layton’s annual Veterans Day parade features marching bands, military vehicles, and local dignitaries. The ceremony following the parade is held in partnership with the Northern Utah Vietnam Veterans of America.
Draper City Veterans Day Ceremony
Date: Tuesday, Nov. 11
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Draper City Park
This family event includes a flag-raising ceremony, live music, a keynote address, and a tribute to veterans. Light refreshments will be served afterward.
Washington City Veterans Day Celebration
Date: Tuesday, Nov. 11
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Veterans Park
The city of Washington will host a parade down Telegraph Street, followed by a short program honoring local veterans and their families.
BYU Wind Symphony for Heroes — Provo
Date: Tuesday, Nov. 11
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Brigham Young University
The BYU Wind Symphony will perform a free patriotic concert dedicated to veterans and active service members. Admission is free for veterans and their families. Learn more about Veterans Day history and significance from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Free Admission and Discounts at Utah Attractions
Utah’s most popular destinations are offering free or discounted entry for veterans and active-duty military members.
- Natural History Museum of Utah: Free admission from Nov. 8–11.
- Hogle Zoo: Free entry for veterans, active service members, and families of fallen soldiers on Nov. 11.
- Loveland Living Planet Aquarium: Free admission for veterans, military personnel, and immediate family members on Nov. 11 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
- Utah’s National Parks: Free entry for all visitors on Nov. 11, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands. Visit the National Park Service for more information.
Local Services and Discounts
- Fellas Barber Shop: Free haircuts for veterans on Nov. 11, plus a raffle benefiting Utah veterans’ charities.
- Great Clips: Free haircut or a free haircut card redeemable for a later visit on Nov. 11.
- Sport Clips: Free haircuts for veterans and a $2 donation to the “Help A Hero” scholarship fund for every other haircut service.
Restaurant Deals and Free Meals
Many restaurants across Utah are offering complimentary or discounted meals to veterans and active-duty service members. Be sure to bring a valid military ID.
- Applebee’s: Free meal from select menu items.
- Cafe Rio: 50% off meals for veterans on Nov. 11.
- California Pizza Kitchen: Free entrée and drink from a special Veterans Day menu.
- Chili’s: Free entrée for veterans.
- Cracker Barrel: Free Sunrise Pancake Special.
- Denny’s: Free Original Grand Slam from 5 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Dickey’s Barbecue Pit: Free pulled pork sandwich.
- Golden Corral: Free “Thank You” meal during Military Appreciation Night (4 p.m. to close).
- IHOP: Free Red, White & Blue pancakes.
- In-N-Out Burger: Complimentary burger, fries, and drink.
- Krispy Kreme: Free donut and small coffee.
- Little Caesars: Free lunch combo (four pizza slices and a Pepsi drink).
- Olive Garden: Free meal from a select Veterans Day menu.
- Red Robin: Free Big Tavern Burger with bottomless fries and lemonade.
- Starbucks: Free tall brewed coffee for veterans and spouses.
- Texas Roadhouse: Free meal voucher from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., valid through May 30, 2026.
Note: Offers may vary by location. Call ahead to confirm participation and requirements.
Tips for Veterans and Families
- Plan ahead: Popular events and restaurants can get busy. Arrive early for the best experience.
- Bring identification: Most discounts and free meals require a valid military or veteran ID.
- Confirm details: Check websites or call ahead, as some offers or times may change.
- Support local: Many small Utah businesses provide Veterans Day perks—some extend them beyond Nov. 11.
Veterans Day is a chance not only to honor those who’ve served but also to come together as a community. Whether you attend a local parade, enjoy a free meal, or visit one of Utah’s beautiful parks, there are countless ways to show gratitude to the men and women who have defended our freedom.
