RI Veterans Day: 1st Annual Veterans Day Family Festival. Restaurant Discounts. Events – John A. Cianci

by John A. Cianci, contributing writer, veterans issues

1st Annual Veterans Day Family Festival – a New Community Tradition Starts NOW!

This Tuesday, November 11th, we’re turning Johnston Memorial Park into the biggest celebration of the season and YOU’RE invited!

Tuesday, November 11th – 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM – Johnston Memorial Park

OPENING CEREMONY:  (10:00 AM – 10:30 AM)

This isn’t just any ceremony, it’s a powerful, heartfelt tribute to those who serve our country and our community.

Live performance by the Johnston High School Band
Special appearance by local senators & state representatives
Honoring our heroes with the Johnston Medal of Honor for Service
Recognizing 3 firefighters + 3 police officers for extraordinary service

This is the moment we come together as one town, one community, one family.

THE FAMILY FESTIVAL (10:30 AM – 2:00 PM)

Bring your kids, your friends, your neighbors there’s something for EVERYONE!

25+ amazing vendors: jewelry, clothing, crafts, baked goods & more
Face painter from 10 AM–12 PM
Bouncy House ALL DAY – Live DJ bringing the energy
Hair Tinsel by Jessica Hair Haven (small cost, totally worth it!)

Beautiful fall day surrounded by your community
Perfect photo spots for families, couples, and kids
Support local small businesses AND honor our veterans

This is exactly the kind of event that makes a town feel alive.

LET’S SHOW UP FOR OUR VETERANS & OUR COMMUNITY

We want the park packed – loud, proud, and full of community spirit.
Bring your family. Bring your friends. Bring everyone.

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OTHER VETERANS DAY EVENTS:

Monday, Nov. 10, 11am – East Greenwich. Veterans Pinning Ceremony with HopeHealth, a Providence-based nonprofit hospice and palliative care provider, and Saint Elizabeth Community, a skilled nursing facility in East Greenwich. Honoring 23 veterans who served in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, National Guard, and Marines.

Tuesday, Nov. 11, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Veterans Day Ceremony with lunch, hosted by Bristol Community College Fall River Campus, 777 Elsbree St. The event is free and open to all, rain or shine. A brief speaking program at 11 a.m. will be followed by a buffet-style lunch. VA Providence specialists will be available to answer questions about health care and eligibility. For details, call Denny Cosmo at 774-357-2227 or email Denny.Cosmo@BristolCC.edu.

Tuesday, Nov. 11, 4:30 to 8 p.m., Veterans Appreciation Dinner sponsored by United HealthCare at the Plastic Palace, the heated outdoor pavilion in the upper back parking lot of Lindy’s Tavern, 98 School St., North Smithfield. Cocktails and appetizers will precede a 5 p.m. USO-style show by the Fancie Senior Follies. Dinner will follow at 6 p.m. Veterans attend free; guests are $15 each. Seating is limited, so call Kathy at 401-636-1031 to reserve.

Tuesday, November 11, 11am – Tiverton Historical Society’s annual Veterans Day Tribute at the WWI Doughboy Memorial at the old Stone Bridge on the Bicentennial Green. Veterans can state their name and service info, if desired.

Tuesday, November 11, 11am – Town of Middletown is holding a ceremony at Paradise Valley Park, 19 Prospect Ave.

Tuesday, November 11, 11am to noon – Portsmouth VFW Post 5390 Veterans Day Ceremony and Celebration, honoring all veterans. Speaker TBA, Boy Scout Troop 1, others. Reception will follow.

Tuesday, November 11, 11am to 11:45am – Jamestown, East Ferry/Veterans Memorial Square, display of 150 US flags. Lunch reception for veterans in the Recreation Center.

Tuesday, November 11 – Veterans 5K – Roger Williams Park – 12th Annual – proceeds to benefit Operation Stand Down RI

Tuesday, Nov. 11th – 2pm: Veterans Home, Bristol,, RI –

*Due to colder weather the event will be held inside the main galley*

State of Rhode Island to honor and recognize our Veterans during a ceremony at the Rhode Island Veterans Home.

Speaking: Governor Dan McKee, Director Kasim Yarn – Veterans Services, U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner, U.S Rep. Gabe Amo, Lt. Gov. Sabina Matos, Secretary of State Gregg Amore, General Treasurer James Diossa, Senate President Valarie Lawson, Speaker Joseph Shekarchi, Bristol Town Manager Steven Contente, Brooke Perron, student and winner of the Patriot’s Pen essay.

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WPRI has the most complete list (other than ours) – and changes due to weather, if any  –  https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/list-veterans-day-2025-ceremonies-and-parades-in-ri-mass/

2025 VETERANS DAY RESTAURANT DISCOUNTS:

THE FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF VETERANS DAY DISCOUNTS AT RESTAURANTS FOR 2025. THIS LIST WILL BE UPDATED AS NEW DISCOUNTS COME IN.

VETERANS DAY FREE MEALS , COFFEE AND DONUTS

TO HONOR MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY, THESE RESTAURANTS ARE OFFERING VETERANS FREE MEALS OR BEVERAGES ON OR AROUND VETERANS DAY, NOVEMBER 11.

Starbucks 

On Veterans Day, November 11, 2025, Starbucks will offer a free tall brewed coffee to veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses at participating U.S. stores. Free Coffee: Veterans and military affiliated individuals can enjoy a free tall (12 fl. oz) brewed coffee, either hot or iced. This offer is valid for café and drive-thru orders only, and it excludes cold brew, nitro, and any beverage customizations. Each customer is limited to one free coffee per visit.

Eligibility: The offer extends to all veterans, active duty service members, and military spouses, including those from the National Guard, Reserves, Coast Guard, Air Force, Space Force, and Marine Corps. No military ID is required; simply inform the barista of your service when ordering.

Honey Dew Donuts Veterans Day Offer:

On Tuesday, November 11, Honey Dew is proudly thanking those brave individuals who’ve served our country by offering a free coffee to all veterans—no purchase necessary (one per person).

As a New England brand with deep community roots, Honey Dew continues its annual tradition of giving back to those who’ve given so much. It’s a small gesture of gratitude that’s brewed with heart.

 

OLIVE GARDEN

On Veterans Day 2025, Olive Garden will offer a free meal to veterans and active duty military members from a special menu, available on November 11.

Free Meal Offer – Date: The promotion is valid on November 11, 2025, in honor of Veterans Day.

Eligibility: Veterans and active duty military personnel can enjoy a complimentary entrée from a specially crafted menu. Proof of service, such as a military ID or veterans ID, is required to redeem the offer.

Applebee’s 

Veteran and active-duty military receive a free meal from a select menu on November 11 at participating locations. Dine-in only.

All Veterans and Active Duty Military who visit an Applebee’s restaurant in the United States on Tuesday, November 11 can receive a free full-size entrée and a $5 Bounce Back Card towards their next meal at Applebee’s – Applebee’s is proud to honor those who serve and have served our country. All Active Duty Military, Veterans, Reserves, and National Guard members who dine in-restaurant will receive a complimentary full-size entrée from an exclusive Veterans Day menu as a heartfelt thank-you for their service.*

This year marks the 18th consecutive year Applebee’s has celebrated Veterans Day with this tradition. Since the program began, Applebee’s has served more than 12.3 million free meals to America’s service members and veterans.

Applebee’s 2025 Veterans Day Menu includes a choice of seven popular entrées including:

6 oz. Top Sirloin

Classic Bacon Cheeseburger

Chicken Tenders Platter

Double Crunch Shrimp

Fiesta Lime Chicken®

Oriental Chicken Salad

Three-Cheese Chicken Penne

“There’s no greater energy than at an Applebee’s on Veterans Day. It’s a day where you can not only see, but feel the neighborhood coming together,” said John Peyton, Applebee’s president & Dine Brands CEO. “One of the busiest days of the year, we’re proud to welcome our nation’s heroes and thank them for their service and sacrifice with a complimentary entrée as a small token of our appreciation.”

Additionally, on November 11 when dining in-restaurant, Applebee’s will honor these special guests with a $5 Bounce Back Card to redeem for dine-in, To Go, or delivery within a three-week redemption window.**

To find your local restaurant to dine in, visit Applebees.com/restaurants. For more exclusive deals and specials,guests can join Club Applebee’s to be a part of the neighborhood and receive a welcome offer!

*Available on November 11, 2025, at participating Applebee’s only. Dine-in only. Not valid with other coupons or discounts. Beverage and gratuity not included. U.S. Veterans and Active-Duty Military simply show proof of military service. Proof of service includes U.S. Uniformed Services ID Card, U.S. Uniformed Services Retired ID Card, current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), Veterans organization card (i.e., American Legion, VFW), photograph of yourself in uniform, wearing uniform, DD214 and citation or commendation. Limit 1 meal per U.S. Veteran or Active-Duty Military.

**One card per qualifying U.S. Veteran or Active Duty Military. Redeemable between 11/12/25 – 11/30/25. Coupon must be presented and relinquished at time of redemption. Valid at participating Applebee’s® OR online via applebees.com or the Applebee’s mobile app only. Limit one card per party, per table, per visit. Excludes tax, alcohol, delivery fees, gift cards and gratuity. Not valid with any other offers, coupons, or discounts. Not redeemable for cash, and no change will be given. Void if lost, stolen, photographed, scanned, reproduced or altered in any way.

BJ’S RESTAURANT AND BREWHOUSE – On November 11, active-duty and retired military dining in at BJ’s with a valid military ID will receive a free Chocolate Chunk Pizookie. And from November 12 through December 31, guests with a valid military ID who dine in and purchase an entrée will receive a free Appetizer Bounce Back to enjoy on a future visit.

BOB EVANS — Veterans and active-duty military get a free meal from a select menu on November 11. Dine in

Canned Heat Craft Beer – Enjoy a complimentary pizza

CHILI’S — Veterans and active-duty military members get a free meal on November 11 at all participating restaurants. Available in-restaurant only for select items. Military ID required to redeem offer.

CIRCLE K — ON NOVEMBER 11, VETERANS GET ONE FREE MEDIUM HOT OR ICED COFFEE. THE ONE-DAY-ONLY OFFER IS AVAILABLE AT PARTICIPATING U.S. LOCATIONS, AND CUSTOMERS CAN REDEEM THEIRS BY SHOWING A VALID MILITARY ID AT PURCHASE.

Coffee and Cream Restaurant – 900 Victory Hwy, North Smithfield

Cracker Barrel — On November 11, veterans and active-duty service members with valid ID get a free Sunrise Pancake Special.

Denny’s — Veterans and active-duty military personnel receive a free Original Grand Slam on November 11 from 5am to 12pm. Must show valid Military ID or DD214.

Gathering Grounds Cafés – Your choice of a complimentary coffee, ice cream, or pastry.

Golden Corral — Golden Corral is hosting their Military Appreciation Night on November 11 from 4pm to close. This includes a free “thank you” meal when dining in.

IHOP: Vets get a free Red, White & Blueberry Pancake Combo served with eggs, hash browns and a choice of meat.

Olive Garden — On November 11, Olive Garden will offer each veteran and current member of the military who dines in a free entrée from a special menu. Simply show proof of military service.

Outback Steakhouse — Outback is offering a free Aussie 3-Course Meal with valid military ID when dining in on November 10 and 11 (select entrées only).

Ninety Nine Restaurant and Pub — On November 11, from opening until 4 p.m., veterans and active-duty military members who present a valid military ID will receive a free lunch entrée from the Veterans Day Menu with adult entrée purchase.

Red Robin – Veterans and active-duty military guests can enjoy a complimentary Red’s Big Tavern Burger and Bottomless Side when dining in at participating restaurants on November 11.

Ruby Tuesday — Ruby Tuesday is offering a free Garden Bar Entrée or Free Garden Bar Add-On on November 11, to veterans (retired and active-duty military with valid ID).

Sizzler — On November 11, participating Sizzler locations will be offering a free lunch to any active-duty military or veteran until 4:00pm. Choose between a free Half Dozen Crispy Shrimp, Malibu Chicken, or 6oz Tri-Tip Steak entree–with a free beverage included. All Sizzler locations–excluding those in Utah, Idaho, and Puerto Rico–will be participating in this promotion.

Smokey Bones — Smokey Bones, is offering a free entree to all veterans and active-duty military: Bacon Cheeseburger, Pulled Pork Sandwich, or Chicken Tender Platter with one regular side on November 11 when dining in with a valid military ID. It cannot be combined with the military discount.

Starbucks — Starbucks is honoring those who have served with a free tall (12-ounce) brewed coffee (hot or iced) for veterans, military service members and military spouses at participating U.S. stores and licensed locations on November 11.

Toast n’ Tap – Quaker Lane, West Warwick – say RINewsToday sent you!

Texas Roadhouse On Veterans Day, November 11, 2025, Texas Roadhouse will honor veterans and active-duty military members with free meal vouchers from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event is part of Texas Roadhouse’s annual tradition to thank veterans for their service, and they have been doing this for over 20 years.

Eligibility: Veterans and active duty military personnel can receive a free meal voucher by presenting a valid military ID or proof of service at participating Texas Roadhouse locations.

Meal Details: The voucher can be redeemed for one of ten entrees, including options like a 6 oz. USDA Choice Sirloin, Grilled BBQ Chicken, and Pulled Pork Dinner, along with two sides and a non-alcoholic beverage.

Redemption Period: The vouchers are valid for dine-in or carry out and can be redeemed until May 30, 2026, allowing flexibility for veterans to enjoy their meal at a later date if they cannot visit on Veterans Day.

Top of the Bay – Warwick, RI 

99 Restaurant – VETERANS DAY SPECIALS – Veterans and Active Duty Military are invited to be our guest for lunch from opening – 4pm onTuesday, 11/11/25. Purchase any entrée and you’ll receive a free lunch from our Veterans Day Menu:  All American Cheese Burger* A ½ pound 100% American Angus beef burger flame broiled to order with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles and onions. Dripping with our signature sauce. Served on our brioche bun with french fries or coleslaw. 14.99 Grilled Teriyaki Chicken A tender, marinated chicken breast flame broiled with a teriyaki glaze and topped with grilled pineapple. Served with teriyaki sauce and two sides. 14.99 Chopped Sirloin* Juicy ground sirloin seasoned and flame broiled, smothered with red wine sauce and sautéed mushrooms. Served with two sides. 14.99 Topped with peppers and onions. Add 2.49 Chicken & Sausage Al Forno A guest favorite! Penne pasta tossed with creamy tomato sauce, tender roasted chicken, sweet Italian sausage and parmesan cheese. Topped with mozzarella and provolone cheeses and oven baked. Served with warm Rustic Bread. 14.99 Crispy Twin Catch Hand-breaded shrimp and cod both golden-fried until crispy. Served with tartar sauce, french fries and coleslaw. 14.99 Roasted Turkey Dinner Tender, slow-roasted turkey breast and cornbread stuffing smothered with a rich turkey gravy. Served with Russet mashed potatoes, warm honey-glazed biscuit and one side. 14.99 Cranberry sauce upon request.

Red Oak Hospitality – This Veterans Day, we proudly invite all Veterans and active-duty service members to join us for a complimentary meal, snack or spin — our way of saying thank you for your courage, commitment, and sacrifice. All locations.

The Old Grist Mill Tavern – A complimentary meal from our featured Veterans Day selections, including our Fresh Works Salad Bar! Homestyle Turkey Dinner – 10oz Slow-Roasted Prime Rib – Classic Meatloaf – Seafood Platter. If you’re craving something different, our servers will gladly help you find the perfect dish!

The Tipsy Toboggan – A complimentary meal of your choice from our full menu (Excludes 16, 22 & 44 ounce Prime Rib)

Wein-O-Rama, Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston:

 

 

 

 

 

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Fall River Carousel – A complimentary carousel ride for every Veteran – Simply present your military ID or proof of service, and allow us to serve you!

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If you are a retailer and or a veteran aware of a business not listed above, please forward to: itamri4vets@gmail.com; the business name, location, and military and veteran discount offered.

If you have an event, meeting, other pertinent veteran information, or email questions or help needed, contact the Italian American War Veteran Service Officer, John A Cianci, itamri4vets@gmail.com, ITAM Office (401) 677-9VET (9838)

To read all columns in this series go to:    https://rinewstoday.com/john-a-cianci/

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John A. Cianci is a Veteran Service Officer. Retired, U.S. Army MSgt., Persian Gulf War and Iraq War combat theater.

Cianci, a combat disabled Veteran, served in Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. His awards include Bronze Star, Combat Action Badge, Good Conduct, and others.

Cianci belongs to numerous veterans organizations – Italian American War Veterans, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, and many more organizations. He is an active volunteer assisting veterans to navigate federal and state benefits they have earned. He is Department of Rhode Island Department Commander Italian American War Veterans and Veteran Service Officer.

He is a graduate of Roger Williams University (BS Finance), UCONN business school* (Entrepreneur Bootcamp for Veterans), Solar Energy International Residential, Commercial and Battery Based Photovoltaic Systems certificate programs, numerous certificates from the Department of Defense renewable energy programs, including graduate of the Solar Ready Vets Program.