Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11th, is a day dedicated to honoring all military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Originally known as Armistice Day, it was established to mark the end of World War I, with the armistice between the Allied nations and Germany taking effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. In 1954, following World War II and the Korean War, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day to recognize all veterans, past and present, for their service and sacrifice.

This year, several local businesses and organizations across Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and surrounding areas are offering specials and events to honor those who have served. Here are some of the Veterans Day specials available in the community:

Shrimp Basket: Veterans can enjoy a free Full-Size Shrimp Basket at Shrimp Basket locations across Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi. Participating locations include Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Foley, and more. Veterans simply need to visit any participating Shrimp Basket location on Veterans Day to receive their complimentary meal. Click here to visit their website.

The Hangout: The Hangout in Gulf Shores is expressing appreciation for veterans by offering a complimentary Hang 10 burger on Veterans Day. This offer is available for dine-in only, and veterans are required to present a valid military ID to enjoy this tasty special. Click here to visit their website.

Bubba's Seafood House: Bubba's Seafood House is offering veterans 20% off all menu items along with a $5 discount on half or a full dozen of baked, grilled, raw, or steamed oysters. These offers are available on November 10th and 11th, giving veterans and their families an opportunity to enjoy some delicious seafood over the holiday weekend. Click here to visit their website.

Wolf Bay Restaurants: Wolf Bay Restaurants are offering veterans and active military members a complimentary meal from their special Veterans Day menu on Monday, November 11th. Veterans can choose from dishes like Fried Gulf Shrimp with Baked Potato, Beef Medallions & Gravy with Baked Potato, or Fried, Grilled, or Blackened Whitefish with Baked Potato. Proof of service or a military ID is required for this offer, which is available at all Wolf Bay locations. Click here to visit their website.

CoastAL - Orange Beach: CoastAL in Orange Beach is offering veterans a 10% discount on Veterans Day. Veterans can enjoy a beautiful meal with a view while taking advantage of this special offer. Click here to visit their website.

The Gulf: The Gulf in Orange Beach is expressing appreciation for veterans by offering a complimentary  burger on Veterans Day. This offer is available for dine-in only, and veterans are required to present a valid military ID to enjoy this tasty special. Click here to visit their website.

Coastal Art Center: Special Concert at the Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival: On Monday, November 11th, as part of the Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival, the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach will be hosting a special concert featuring Nashville hit songwriters from the Freedom Sings USA organization. The concert will include songs created in collaboration with military veterans during Freedom Sings music therapy workshops, as well as other hits from these talented songwriters. Tickets are $15 and available now at the Coastal Arts Center. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the event starts at 6:00 p.m. For more information, call 251-981-ARTS (2787). Click here to visit their website.

These specials and events reflect the community's commitment to honoring the men and women who have selflessly served the country. Whether through a meal, a discount, or an evening of music, these gestures are a way to say thank you and to acknowledge the sacrifices made by veterans.