- Categories:
- Appreciation
- Tags:
- AmericanMilitary
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every September 29
- Holiday emoji:
- 🇺🇸
VFW Day, observed every September 29, commemorates the hard work and sacrifice of American veteran men and women who have selflessly served in foreign conflicts. This day encourages us to acknowledge their dedication and support the vital work of organizations like the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Take time to thank a veteran, donate to a cause, or learn more about their service.
Want to sponsor VFW DAY? Learn how
Expected VFW DAY Deals
VFW Day is a time for appreciation, and many businesses and organizations honor veterans with special programs. While specific 2027 promotions will be announced closer to the date, expect retailers like Lowe’s and The Home Depot to continue offering year-round military discounts, potentially expanding them for the day. Restaurants such as Applebee’s and Outback Steakhouse often provide free meals or special offers for veterans. Additionally, companies like Starbucks and Dunkin’ may run donation-matching campaigns or offer free coffee to service members. Look for local businesses to host community events or offer exclusive deals as a token of gratitude. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as September 29 approaches.
Platform Guide for VFW DAY
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #VFWDay. Share stories of veteran employees or highlight your company’s support for military families.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #VFWDay. Share news, historical facts, or messages of gratitude to veterans and VFW posts.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #VFWDay. Post photos of local VFW events, share resources for veterans, or encourage community support.
VFW DAY Hero
James C. Smith
History of VFW DAY
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (V.F.W.) organization was created in 1913. During a historic convention in Pittsburgh. The organization was formed through a merger of three war-veteran associations, which had been founded in 1899 after the Spanish-American War. The American Veterans of Foreign Service, which had two chapters, was based in Ohio and Pennsylvania while The Colorado Society of the Army of the Philippines was located in Colorado and Pennsylvania.
Though the merger took place in 1913, the V.F.W. recognizes 1899 as its founding date. Headquartered in Kansas, Missouri, the organization’s mission, according to its website, is to “foster camaraderie among United States veterans of overseas conflicts. To serve our veterans, the military, and our communities. To advocate on behalf of all veterans.”
The history of V.F.W. Day can be traced to the genesis of the organization itself. The day was created to commemorate the historic establishment of the V.F.W. on September 29, 1899, when a group of Spanish-American war veterans banded together in a bid to share their experiences and support one another. 120 years later, the V.F.W. is still going strong with a membership of over 1.5 million people, with 6,000 Posts spread across all 50 states of the country, as well as in the Asia-Pacific region and Europe.
In order to obtain membership of the organization, candidates must be U.S. citizens or nationals, former or current members of the armed forces, and must have served in a war, campaign, or expedition on foreign soil, airspace, or hostile waters.
VFW DAY timeline
The V.F.W. is established.
The V.F.W. Legislative Conference is inaugurated, providing the opportunity to lobby lawmakers.
The V.F.W. Congressional Award is held for the first time to recognize members of the House or Senate for outstanding legislative contributions in promoting the cause of military veterans.
The GI Bill is passed into law, expanding educational opportunities for active service members.
VFW DAY FAQs
When is VFW Day?
VFW Day 2026 falls on Tuesday, September 29, a dedicated day to recognize the profound sacrifices of American veterans who served overseas.
How many members does the VFW have?
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) boasts a membership of approximately 1.5 million eligible veterans and auxiliary members across the globe, making it one of the largest veteran organizations.
What is the mission of the VFW?
The VFW’s core mission is to foster camaraderie among U.S. veterans of overseas conflicts, advocate on their behalf, and ensure that those who defended America receive the benefits and respect they earned.
Is VFW Day a federal holiday?
No, VFW Day is not a federal holiday, meaning government offices and most businesses remain open. However, it is widely observed as a day of recognition and appreciation for veterans.
How to Observe VFW DAY
Honor our heroes
If you have a personal relationship with a veteran or service member, honor them for their sacrifice in whatever way you can. Throw a party in their honor or share their story to inspire others.
Use the hashtag
Use the hashtag #StillServing and #VFWDay on social media to create awareness and encourage others to find out more about V.F.W. Day.
Support
If you’re unable to provide hands-on support to a veteran yourself, consider donating or volunteering at organizations established to provide help to veterans, either financially or in other ways.
5 Prerequisites For Joining The U.S. Army
A U.S. citizen or national
Candidates must be a citizen of the United States or a foreign national with a residential permit.
Fall within the age bracket
Aspirants must be between the ages of 17 to 34 to enlist in the army.
The minimum educational requirement
The minimum educational requirement is a high school diploma.
Ace the ASVAB
It is compulsory to pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test (ASVAB).
Meet the MEPS
Candidates must meet the requirements for the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) medical exam.
Why V.F.W. Day is Important
Not all heroes wear capes
This holiday gives us a chance to honor and celebrate the selfless men and women who put their lives on the line for their country.
The ultimate sacrifice
As we celebrate the living veterans, it’s even more important to look back in appreciation of the heroes who lost their lives while fighting for their nation’s freedom. V.F.W. Day reminds us of their sacrifice.
The unsung heroes
We also appreciate the unsung heroes — the families, and friends of service members — who make huge sacrifices by allowing their loved ones to serve.
VFW DAY dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | September 29 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | September 29 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | September 29 | Friday |
| 2029 | September 29 | Saturday |
| 2030 | September 29 | Sunday |


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