Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Gulf Coast has a rich military history and a deep respect and appreciation for the men and women who dedicate their lives to defending our freedoms. Veterans Day offers a chance to recognize them for their bravery and thank them for their sacrifice and service.



Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, is our nation's official opportunity to honor and thank all military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It is a special time set aside to proudly recognize their sacrifices, dedication, and patriotism in defending our freedom and our country.

Veterans Day is more than mattress sales, closed banks, and a day off work. Below are local restaurants celebrating our veterans, along with 10 ideas to make this November 11th memorable and meaningful in ways that truly honor them.

Tacky Jacks - Orange Beach

Salute by the Sea: A Veterans Day Gathering will take place Wednesday, November 11, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Tacky Jacks in Orange Beach, Alabama. The event is free to attend. Three veterans will each receive a Gulf Shores and Orange Beach getaway package valued at approximately $1,500. Made possible by community partners, the packages include beachfront accommodations, dining, local experiences, and more. Click here for more information. 

Wolf Bay Restaurant - Foley & Orange Beach

This Veterans Day, we're proud to honor those who have served! Veterans and active military are invited to enjoy a FREE meal from our special Veterans Day menu on November 11. Come see us at BOTH Wolf Bay Locations! Proof of service or a military ID is required. Some exclusions apply. Click here for more information.

Shrimp Basket - All Locations

This Veterans Day, we’re saying thank you the Shrimp Basket way. On Veterans Day, all Veterans, Retirees, Active Duty and Reserve military members can enjoy a free Popcorn Shrimp Basket with a valid military ID. No purchase is required. Click here for more information.

1. Attend one of the many memorial services held throughout the area that honor veterans with

speeches, wreath-laying ceremonies, and family activities.

The City of Orange Beach will host a Community Veterans Day Prayer at the Orange Beach Veterans Memorial at 10 a.m., organized by the Island Church. Later that day, at 6 p.m., the Coastal Arts Center at Orange Beach will host a Frank Brown International Songwriters’ concert honoring veterans.

2. If you’re an area business owner, support local veterans by offering them special discounts on

Veterans Day.

3. Take a moment of silence on November 11th at 11:11 am to honor and remember veterans, a

simple yet powerful way to show your respect.

4. Write thank-you notes to veterans showing your appreciation for their service and deliver

them to local veterans' homes, hospitals, or community centers.

5. For something both entertaining and educational, have a movie night featuring military films

and documentaries.

6. Explore our region’s many historic military sites such as Fort Morgan, Fort Conde, Fort

Gaines, and USS Alabama Memorial Park.

7. Use social media to express gratitude and raise awareness about the importance of Veterans

Day by sharing inspirational posts, images, or stories.

8. Organize a care package packing party after contacting a nearby base or organization like Blue

Star Moms about what to include.

9. Take a veteran coworker out for lunch or coffee.

10. Volunteer at local veterans' organizations and donate to support groups that provide

assistance and resources to veterans in need.

But the best way to celebrate Veterans Day? Simply thank a veteran for their service. From a

simple acknowledgment at the grocery store, to a phone call to a veteran family member, a

small gesture of gratitude goes a long way.