Old Glory, Windermere’s memorial horse honoring U.S. Army 1st Lt. Evan Fitzgibbon, at Town Hall.
To the veterans and service members who call Windermere and the Butler Chain of Lakes home: thank you.
Veterans Day is Wednesday, Nov. 11, and our community is saying thank you with ceremonies, complimentary admission and meals across Central Florida. Here is where to gather and give thanks, plus where veterans and active-duty service members can enjoy a complimentary meal or save this week.
Most offers are good on Nov. 11 only, and nearly all of them require proof of service. Each franchise decides whether to take part, so call your local spot before you go.
Ceremonies Near Home
Windermere Veterans Day Observance: The Rotary Club of Windermere and the Town of Windermere host the annual observance at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Town Hall, 520 Main St.
Orlando Science Center Wreath Ceremony: A brief ceremony at 11 a.m. at the Red Tails Monument in Loch Haven Park. The ceremony is open to all; the Science Center itself is closed that day.
Clermont Veterans Day Ceremony: 11 a.m. at the Clermont Arts & Recreation Center, 3700 S. U.S. Highway 27.
Ocoee Veterans Day Ceremony and Fireworks: Bill Breeze Park, 125 N. Lakeshore Drive. The VFW Post 2093 Community Band begins at 6 p.m., the ceremony follows at 6:30 p.m., and fireworks close the evening. Bring chairs or a blanket.
Complimentary Admission
Florida State Parks: Admission is complimentary for all visitors on Nov. 11, day use only. Wekiwa Springs and Lake Louisa are close to home. Homosassa Springs, Weeki Wachee Springs and the Skyway Fishing Pier are not included.
National Parks: Entrance fees are waived for U.S. citizens and residents on Nov. 11.
Orlando Science Center: Complimentary admission for veterans and active military, with 50% off for family members, Nov. 2 to 15. In person only, with military ID and matching photo ID. Closed Wednesday, Nov. 11.
Harry P. Leu Gardens: Complimentary admission for veterans and retired military on Veterans Day. Active-duty military are welcome at no charge all year.
SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium: Complimentary one-day admission for military members, veterans and first responders through Nov. 30, plus 50% off for up to six guests.
LEGOLAND Florida: Complimentary admission for military, veterans and first responders through Nov. 30, with up to six guests at half price.
SeaWorld Orlando: A Veterans Day weekend celebration Nov. 13 to 15, with an Honor Wall, a Field of Honor flag display and fireworks. Veterans can purchase up to six single-day tickets at 50% off through Waves of Honor (verification through ID.me at WavesOfHonor.com).
Complimentary Meals on Veterans Day
These offers are for Wednesday, Nov. 11, at participating Central Florida locations. Proof of service is required unless noted.
Applebee's: An entrée from a Veterans Day menu. Dine-in only.
Bonefish Grill: Bang Bang Shrimp and a nonalcoholic beverage.
Buffalo Wild Wings: 10 boneless wings and fries.
Chili's: An entrée from a Veterans Day menu. Dine-in only.
Denny's: An Original Grand Slam, 5 a.m. to noon.
Golden Corral: A "Thank You" dinner, 4 p.m. to close. Dine-in only.
Hard Rock Cafe Orlando: A Classic Smashed Burger, which can be paired with the everyday 15% military discount.
IHOP: A Red, White and Blueberry Pancake Combo. Dine-in only.
Red Lobster: Walt's Favorite Shrimp and Chips.
Red Robin: A Red's Big Tavern Burger with bottomless steak fries. Dine-in only.
Texas Roadhouse: Meal vouchers handed out 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., good through May 31, 2027.
TGI Fridays: An entrée from a select menu, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Wendy's: A Dave's Single.
Appetizers, Coffee and Savings
Carrabba's Italian Grill: An appetizer or dessert with a nonalcoholic beverage. Dine-in only.
Yard House: One appetizer per person. Dine-in only.
Miller's Ale House: 50% off an entrée.
Metro Diner: 50% off a meal for active and retired military.
Huey Magoo's: A 3-piece tender meal with a regular beverage purchase.
IKEA Orlando: An entrée in the Swedish Restaurant, Nov. 9 to 11.
Einstein Bros. Bagels: Coffee and a bagel with shmear.
Starbucks: A tall hot or iced brewed coffee for veterans, service members and military spouses.
Dunkin': A donut.
Haircuts, Errands and Shopping
Great Clips: A complimentary haircut on Nov. 11, or a card for one to use Nov. 12 to Dec. 4.
Sport Clips: A complimentary haircut at participating locations.
Waters Car Wash: Complimentary washes at Orlando-area locations, Nov. 9 to 11, for veterans, active duty and first responders.
Publix: 10% off groceries on Nov. 11 for veterans and active military, in store only, with a veteran or military ID, discharge document or a driver's license with the veteran designation.
Kohl's: 30% off in-store purchases Nov. 10 and 11 for military, veterans and their families.
Target: 20% off one qualifying purchase through Nov. 11 for verified Target Circle members.
Before You Go
Bring proof of service. A military ID, VA ID card, DD-214 or a Florida driver's license with the veteran designation usually works.
Call ahead. Each franchise decides whether to take part, and menus and hours can vary by location.
Plan around the lunch rush. Many offers are dine-in only, and restaurants fill quickly on Nov. 11.
Tip on the full meal. Complimentary meals usually do not include drinks or gratuity, and your server will be busy all day.
Know an Offer We Missed?
Is your Windermere or Butler Chain business honoring veterans this week? Email events@windermereneighbors.com and we will add it to this guide.
Offers can change and vary by location, so please confirm with each business before you go. No business paid to be included.
