Veterans Day on Nov. 11 brings free entry to Florida state parks, remembrance ceremonies and discounts for eligible service members, veterans and their families across South Florida.
Florida state parks will waive admission for all visitors on Veterans Day. Active-duty military members and veterans can also receive 25% off annual entrance passes. In the region, Jonathan Dickinson State Park in Hobe Sound is the former site of Camp Murphy, a World War II training facility. Avalon State Park in Fort Pierce and MacArthur Beach State Park in North Palm Beach County also have military-history connections.
Several communities have ceremonies planned for Nov. 11. Palm Beach Gardens will hold its annual Veterans Salute Celebration at Veterans Plaza Amphitheater at 11 a.m., with engineer and veteran Clint Lowe as keynote speaker. Pets are not permitted. Jupiter's ceremony begins at 9 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial on Military Trail. Port St. Lucie will host an 11 a.m. observance at Veterans Memorial Park, including veterans' remarks, musical tributes and a moment of remembrance.
WPBF reported that participating restaurant chains are offering complimentary Veterans Day items, including select-menu meals at Applebee's and TGI Fridays, a Veterans Day meal at Chili's, an entrée and beverage at California Pizza Kitchen, and 10 boneless wings with fries at Buffalo Wild Wings. Other listed offers include a classic smashed burger at Hard Rock Cafe, a buffet meal at Golden Corral, a free appetizer at Yard House, and a free tall brewed coffee for military members and spouses at Starbucks.
Retail and service offers include 10% off groceries at Publix with proof of service and an MVP card; 20% off one qualifying purchase at Target for verified military members, veterans and families through Nov. 11; and 30% off eligible in-store Kohl's purchases Nov. 10-11 with valid ID. Great Clips is offering free Veterans Day haircuts for veterans and active military service members.
Many offers require proof of military service, have eligibility rules or vary by participating location. Visitors should confirm terms with the specific park, restaurant or store before heading out.
