National First Responders Day 2026: FREE Food & Discounts

National First Responders Day is October 28, and businesses across the country are celebrating with FREE food, special discounts, and exclusive offers for first responders!

Whether you’re a firefighter, police officer, EMT, paramedic, or another eligible emergency professional, there are some great ways to save. Some offers are available for October 28 only, while others can be used throughout the year.

Be sure to bring your valid first responder ID or badge, and check with participating locations before heading out!

National First Responders Day FREE Food & Restaurant Deals 2026

Sonny’s BBQ – FREE Pork Big Deal

On October 28, first responders can enjoy a FREE Pork Big Deal, including a pulled or sliced pork sandwich, side, and drink!

No purchase necessary. Show a valid first responder ID or arrive in uniform. Available at all Sonny’s BBQ locations for dine-in, takeout, or drive-thru. Limit one per eligible first responder.

Ford’s Garage – FREE Burger or $16 Off

On October 28, eligible first responders can receive a FREE American Standard Burger or up to $16 off another entrée.

Available for dine-in only at participating locations with valid service identification. Limit one offer per eligible first responder.

TGI Fridays – 50% Off an Entrée

On October 28, first responders can receive 50% off an entrée with a $10 purchase at participating locations. Dine-in only; proof of profession required.

Chick-fil-A – Select Location Freebies

Some Chick-fil-A restaurants may offer a FREE item or meal to first responders on October 28. These promotions are locally operated, so check your neighborhood restaurant before visiting.

McDonald’s – Select Location Freebies

Participating McDonald’s locations may offer complimentary food or drinks to first responders on October 28. Check with your local restaurant for availability.

Smashburger – 25% Off

Police officers, firefighters, EMTs, medical professionals, and military personnel can receive 25% off their order with valid ID or while in uniform. Available for in-restaurant purchases at participating locations.

Outback Steakhouse – 10% Off

First responders can save 10% every day through Outback’s Heroes Discount program. Present valid identification and check participating restaurant terms.

RaceTrac – FREE Drinks Every Day

Eligible first responders can enjoy a FREE any-size fountain drink, frozen drink, or coffee every day through RaceTrac’s first responder appreciation program. Check the program requirements before redeeming.

Dave & Buster’s – 15% Off

Eligible first responders can receive 15% off food and drinks at participating locations. Rewards members may also qualify for additional app promotions.

Retail Freebies & Special Offers for First Responders

Lowe’s – FREE $10 MyLowe’s Money

Through October 31, eligible first responders who verify through ID.me can qualify for $10 in MyLowe’s Money!

Verification must be completed between October 1 and October 31, 2026. Allow up to 10 days for the offer to become available. The reward must be claimed by November 7, 2026.

Firehouse Subs – K-9 Crew Collection

Beginning October 28, Firehouse Subs is introducing its K-9 Crew plushie collection featuring Stone, Ember, and Echo. Each plushie costs $9.95, with net profits benefiting the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation.

On October 28, proceeds from eligible Hook & Ladder sub purchases also benefit the foundation. This is a fundraiser, not a free-sub promotion.

Crayola Experience – FREE Annual Pass

Eligible firefighters, law enforcement officers, and EMTs can receive a FREE annual pass at participating Crayola Experience locations, including Orlando and Easton. Identification and eligibility requirements apply.

LEGOLAND New York – FREE Ticket

Eligible first responders can receive a FREE one-day park ticket and discounts of up to 50% on tickets for up to six guests.

Verification through ID.me is required. The reported 2026 offer is valid through November 30, 2026.

First Responder Store Discounts Available Year-Round

National First Responders Day isn’t the only time to save! Many stores and brands offer ongoing discounts to eligible first responders, medical professionals, and military personnel.

Academy Sports + Outdoors – 10% off eligible purchases.
ASICS – Up to 25% off qualifying footwear and 30% off qualifying apparel and accessories.
Atkins – 10% off for eligible groups.
Bonobos – 20% off eligible purchases.
Cheap Caribbean – Reported $150 vacation discount for eligible customers.
Dockers – 20% off qualifying apparel.
Drunk Elephant – 15% off eligible purchases.
Evenflo – 15% off qualifying car seats, strollers, and baby gear.
Home Chef – Special savings for verified eligible professionals. Check the current introductory and ongoing offers.
Huel – 10% off qualifying orders of $75 or more.
J.Crew – 15% off eligible purchases.
J.Crew Factory – Extra 15% off eligible purchases.
Levi’s – 10% off eligible purchases.
NFL Shop – 15% off eligible purchases.
PUMA – Discounts for verified eligible professionals.
Rothy’s – Additional 20% off eligible purchases.
RVCA – 20% off select qualifying products.
Spec Ops Tools – Reported 15% lifetime discount for eligible first responders.
Tractor Supply – Hometown Heroes discount opportunities for verified members.
UGG – 10% off qualifying full-priced styles.
Under Armour – 20% off eligible purchases for qualifying first responders, healthcare workers, and military members.

How to Claim First Responder Discounts

Most offers require some form of eligibility verification. Depending on the business, you may need to:

Show a valid first responder ID or badge.
Visit in uniform.
Verify your profession online through ID.me or another verification service.
Sign up for a free store rewards account.
Visit a participating location during the promotional dates.

You can also browse additional offers through ID.me’s First Responder Discounts.

Offers, eligibility requirements, and participating locations can change. Some discounts are only available on October 28, while others are offered throughout the year. Always verify the current promotion before making a purchase or visiting a store.

Know a firefighter, police officer, EMT, paramedic, or dispatcher? Share this list so they don’t miss these National First Responders Day freebies and discounts!