VFW DAY – September 29, 2026

VFW DAY
Categories:
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

LinkedIn

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.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #VFWDay. Post photos of local VFW events, share resources for veterans, or encourage community support.

Social Media Tips for VFW DAY

Individuals

Reach out to a veteran in your life and express your gratitude. Consider volunteering at a local VFW post or donating to veteran support services.

Creators

Produce content highlighting the history and mission of the VFW. Interview veterans about their experiences or showcase community initiatives supporting them.

Brands

Launch a campaign that supports veteran employment or mental health initiatives. Offer special discounts to veterans or partner with a VFW post for a fundraising event.

Partners & Brands for VFW DAY

  1. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

    Founded in 1899, the VFW is a nonprofit veterans' service organization composed of eligible veterans and military service members from the active, Guard, and Reserve forces. It advocates for veterans' rights and provides assistance programs.

  2. Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

    Established in 1920, the DAV is a non-profit charity dedicated to empowering veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity. They provide free services to veterans and their families.

  3. The American Legion

    Founded in 1919 by WWI veterans, The American Legion is the largest wartime veterans service organization in the U.S., committed to mentoring youth and sponsoring wholesome programs in communities.

  4. USAA

    United Services Automobile Association (USAA) was founded in 1922 by a group of Army officers. It is a diversified financial services group offering banking, investing, and insurance to people and families who serve, or served, in the U.S. military.

  5. Wounded Warrior Project

    Founded in 2003, the Wounded Warrior Project is a charity and veterans service organization that offers a variety of programs, services, and events for wounded veterans of military actions following September 11, 2001.

  6. Amazon

    Amazon, founded in 1994, is a global e-commerce and technology giant that has made significant commitments to hiring and supporting veterans and military spouses, offering specialized programs and career opportunities.

  7. Starbucks

    Starbucks, established in 1971, has a strong commitment to supporting the military community, aiming to hire 25,000 veterans and military spouses by 2025 and offering various programs for service members.

VFW DAY Hero

James C. Smith

While the VFW has many influential leaders, James C. Smith, a veteran of the Vietnam War, served as the National Commander of the VFW in 2023-2024. He dedicated his efforts to advocating for veterans' benefits, mental health support, and community engagement, continuing the organization's century-long mission.

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

1899
Establishment of the V.F.W.

The V.F.W. is established.

1949
Legislative Conference

The V.F.W. Legislative Conference is inaugurated, providing the opportunity to lobby lawmakers.

1964
Congressional Award

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.

2008
The GI Bill

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

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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

  1. A U.S. citizen or national

    Candidates must be a citizen of the United States or a foreign national with a residential permit.

  2. Fall within the age bracket

    Aspirants must be between the ages of 17 to 34 to enlist in the army.

  3. The minimum educational requirement

    The minimum educational requirement is a high school diploma.

  4. Ace the ASVAB

    It is compulsory to pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test (ASVAB).

  5. Meet the MEPS

    Candidates must meet the requirements for the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) medical exam.

Why V.F.W. Day is Important

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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