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Alexandria, VA – This Veterans Day, November 11, 2025, restaurants across the DMV area are saluting veterans and active-duty military members with free meals, discounts, and special offers. Please note: Many restaurants require proof of military service andsome deals are dine-in only. Check with your local restaurant for details before visiting.

:Complimentary full-size entrée from an exclusive menu and a $5 “Bounce Back Card” for a future visit to all active-duty military, veterans, reserves, and National Guard members who dine in-restaurant.

Choose one of the following farm-fresh favorites when they dine in: Country Biscuit Breakfast, The Classic Breakfast, Banana Berry Oatmeal, Sunrise, The Mini Sampler, Brioche French Toast, Cup of Sausage Gravy & Biscuits, Buttermilk Hotcakes, Bowl of Rolled-Oat Oatmeal, or Down-Home Country-Fried Steak.

California Pizza Kitchen: Your choice of one complimentary beverage and one entree. All military guests who dine in will receive a Buy One Get One bounce-back card for a future Pizza, Pasta, or Salad purchase.

Chili’s: Enjoy a complimentary meal for dine-in only from a limited menu.

Chipotle Mexican Grill: From 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. local time, guests who order an entrée in-restaurant will receive a second entrée for free. The offer is valid at U.S. Chipotle restaurants.

Dave & Buster’s: All veterans and active-duty military are invited to enjoy a FREE entrée (up to $20) + a $10 Power Card for gameplay at any Dave & Buster’s nationwide.

Get a free Original Grand Slam from 5 a.m. to noon at participating locations.

Get a free Pulled Pork Sandwich at all locations nationwide.

Dog Haus: Get a free Haus Dog, redeemable for dine-in only.

Flavor Hive: 50% off every day for millitary and first responders.

Friendly’s: Get a free Veteran’s Burger with a beverage. Available in-restaurant only.

Harris Teeter: Get 11% off your purchases on Veteran’s Day.

IHOP: Vets get a Free Red, White & Blueberry Pancake Combo. Dine-in only.

Joe’s Crab Shack: 20% off meal when dining-in.

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks: Enjoy a select half-priced entrée on Sunday, November 9, 2025..

PJ’s Coffee: Free 16oz Hot or Cold Brew Coffee.

Get a complimentary Red’s Big Tavern Burger and a bottomless side.

Smoothie King: Enjoy a free 20 oz smoothie from 12-3 pm and includes three patriotic picks: Strawberry X-Treme (red), Slim-N-Trim Vanilla (white), and Blueberry Heaven (blue).

Starbucks: Get a tall brewed coffee – hot or iced.

Taffer’s Tavern: Receive 50% off one plate, handheld, or salad November 10-16.

Yard House: Get a complimentary appetizer available for dine-in guests only.

Alexandria, VA — In honor of Veterans Day next week, veteran entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community partners will explore how the skills developed during military service can lead to business success. This dynamic panel discussion will take place Thursday, November 13, 10 am to 11:30 am, at the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus, 3625 Potomac Ave., 5th floor, in Alexandria.

Sponsored by the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP) and the VA Tech Boeing Center for Veteran Transition and Military Families, the program will highlight local veterans who have successfully transformed the leadership, discipline, and adaptability learned in uniform into thriving business ventures. As the nation pauses to honor veterans next week, Alexandria continues to show that gratitude can extend beyond words by helping veterans build strong foundations for success in civilian life.

The workshop is open to veteran business owners, service providers, community leaders, and anyone interested in supporting veteran entrepreneurship. Participants will gain practical advice, hear inspiring stories, and develop a clearer understanding of how to navigate the complex yet rewarding world of business ownership.

AEDP Small Business and Entrepreneurship Manager Philomena Fitzgerald stated, “This topic is always relevant to our region, but it takes on special significance this Veterans Day amidst all the federal uncertainty. We have assembled a wonderful panel of individuals who have transitioned from military life to entrepreneurship. They will share their hard-won experiences and advice with attendees.”

The panel will be moderated by Patricia Frame, founder of Strategies for Human Resources. Other speakers include Laura Hatcher, founder of Laura Hatcher Photography; Kendra Pena-Collazo, owner of Movement in Science; and Brad Halsey, CEO and founder of Building Momentum. All panelists are local entrepreneurs who have transformed lessons learned from their military experiences into the foundation for their successful businesses. They will discuss how values such as teamwork, integrity, and mission focus have shaped their approaches to business ownership and innovation.

Panelists will not only share their personal success stories but also discuss the unique challenges that military entrepreneurs encounter when launching and growing their businesses. These challenges include navigating access to capital, and finding mentors and networks that understand the transition from service member to CEO. Veterans often face specific barriers and opportunities on their journey to entrepreneurship.

The various ecosystem partners will participate in the discussion to share strategies and resources to help veterans access capital. Representatives will explain how government programs, business development organizations, and community initiatives can support veteran-owned businesses in thriving.

During the discussion, panelists will focus on how skills developed in the military—such as strategic thinking, adaptability, and teamwork—are essential for fostering innovation and sustainable growth. These traits, shaped through military service and enhanced by entrepreneurial experience, equip veterans with a valuable toolkit for success in today’s competitive economy.

This event aims to honor veteran entrepreneurs by fostering connections and enhancing the entire veteran business ecosystem. The organizers want attendees to leave feeling inspired and armed with practical strategies to help their businesses grow.After the panel discussion, attendees will have the opportunity to meet directly with resource leaders at a networking and resource fair. Representatives from the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSBFA), the AEDP, and the Virginia Tech Boeing Center for Veteran Transition and Military Families will be present. They will provide guidance, answer questions, and connect veterans with resources to help them take their next steps.By uniting entrepreneurs, ecosystem partners, and community advocates, this event highlights the crucial role that veterans play in the region’s economy and the collective dedication to supporting their success long after their military service ends.

Registration for the workshop is at the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership website.

The Michelin Guide, globally recognized for its restaurant ratings and star selections, has broadened its scope to include hotels and recently awarded nearly 2,500 a coveted Michelin Key.

Similar to how Stars identify the world's best culinary experiences, the Michelin Keys spotlight exceptional stays from the guide's selection of over 7,500 hotels. Michelin Guide inspectors meticulously assess each hotel based on five universal criteria, evaluating the entire hospitality experience beyond individual amenities. This establishes a new and independent global benchmark for excellence in lodging, according to Michelin.

In Virginia and Washington, D.C., nine hotels received a Key rating.

“With the introduction of the Michelin Keys, the Guide establishes a new, global, and independent benchmark for outstanding hotel experiences,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of The Michelin Guide. “With their unique field expertise, Michelin Guide Inspectors have selected the finest properties from across the globe, reflecting the diversity and excellence of today’s hospitality landscape. Whether travelers seek iconic resorts, historic city hotels, or hidden gems off the beaten path, the Michelin Keys provide a trusted guide to discover, explore, and book truly memorable stays that inspire and delight.”

From over 7,000 hotels in the Michelin Guide selection, they have identified those that offer the most exceptional experiences.

One Michelin Key: a very special stay

This establishment is a true standout, offering a unique character and personality that sets it apart. It excels by breaking conventions, providing a distinct experience, or simply being a top-tier example of its kind. The service consistently goes above and beyond, delivering significantly more value than other similarly priced options.

Virginia/D.C. One Key Hotels:

Two Michelin Keys: an exceptional stay

A truly unique stay where every detail guarantees a memorable experience. This hotel boasts character, personality and charm, clearly operated with pride and considerable care. Its eye-catching design or architecture, coupled with a genuine sense of the locale, makes it an outstanding choice.

Virginia/D.C. Two Key Hotels:

Three Michelin Keys: an extraordinary stay

This extraordinary hotel offers the ultimate in comfort, service, style, and elegance, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience. It's a destination for a trip of a lifetime, where every element of exceptional hospitality comes together to create lasting memories for every traveler.

No Virginia or Washington, D.C. hotels received three Keys.

Three Key hotels located in the United States include:

Arizona (Tucson): California (Beverly Hills): California (Big Sur): California (Healdsburg): California (Los Angeles): California (Rutherford): California (St. Helena): California (Woodside): Canyon Ranch WoodsideFlorida (Little Torch Key): Hawaii (Kailua Kona): Montana (Pray): New York (NYC): New York (NYC): New York (NYC): New York (NYC): Utah (Canyon Point): Amangiri

Ready for a fun day watching the Scottish Christmas Walk? Or going to see "A Christmas Carol" at the Little Theatre of Alexandria?

The holiday season can be hectic, but with a little planning, you and your friends and family are sure to enjoy the magic of the season. Here's a look at some of the events coming up in Alexandria and the surrounding area to add to your calendar. Click on the links for dates, times and more information.

Northern Virginia Christmas Market (Nov. 7-9, Chantilly): Held at the Dulles Expo Center, this large market features over 300 artisans selling fine arts, crafts, and holiday collectibles.

Fifth Annual St. Nicholas Market (Dec. 7, Alexandria) The Market is held mostly outdoors and will feature over 40 local Catholic artists and makers selling their creations for the Christmas season at Saint Rita Catholic Church.

(Dec. 5-21; first three weekends in December, Alexandria) The 30th annual market offers unique handmade fine arts and fine crafts from local artists.

McLean Holiday Art & Crafts Festival (Dec. 5-7, McLean): This three-day indoor show at the McLean Community Center features regional artisans selling a variety of handmade items, including pottery, jewelry, and holiday decor.

Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show (Dec. 13, Alexandria): This large holiday market at John Carlyle Square features local artisans, holiday music, and seasonal food and drinks.

Mosaic Holiday Village (Nov. 22-23; Dec. 13-14, Fairfax): Enjoy shopping at the Holiday Market, which features local artisans, and participate in other festivities in the Mosaic District.

Farmer John's Holiday Market (Dec. 6-7, Leesburg): Get into the spirit at this festive market with Christmas trees, wreaths, handmade crafts, and hot cider.

Holiday Shopping Village at The Barn (Nov. 14, Ashburn): Part of the annual Festival of Trees, this village offers a special holiday shopping experience.

54th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (Dec. 6, Old Town Alexandria): For more than 50 years, Campagna Center has celebrated Alexandria’s Scottish heritage during the holiday season with both the Taste of Scotland and the annual Scottish Christmas Walk parade.

Ice & Lights: The Winter Village at Cameron Run (Begins Nov. 15, Alexandria): Ice & Lights provides a fun, outdoor family experience to explore new, dazzling light displays, take family pictures or selfies with a variety of festive scenes, enjoy a hot beverage and snack, and take a spin on the ice rink under the stars.

Bull Run Festival of Lights (Begins Nov. 14, Centreville): Drive through this popular park to see a spectacular festival of lights.

Christmas Illuminations (Dec. 20-21, Mount Vernon): George Washington's Mount Vernon hosts an evening with fireworks over the Potomac, a historic winter encampment, and tours of the illuminated mansion.

Meadowlark's Winter Walk of Lights (Begins Nov. 7, Vienna): This popular seasonal event features a half-mile walk through decorated gardens.

Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (Dec. 6, Alexandria): Watch decorated boats light up the waterfront in the 25th annual parade.

Greater Manassas Christmas Parade (Manassas): A long-running tradition held on the first Saturday in December, featuring floats and performers.

Santa Lights Manassas (Dec. 5, Dec. 6 Manassas): On the first Friday of December, join the annual tree lighting ceremony to welcome Santa to Historic Manassas. The 79th annual parade takes place the next day.

39th Annual Santa's Wonderland Parade and Winter Festival (Dec. 6, Colonial Beach): A winter festival kicks off with a parade of decorated floats and vehicles.