Teacher Appreciation Week 2026 restaurant deals & freebies

Key Points:

• During Teacher Appreciation Week 2026 starting May 4th, several restaurants are offering freebies and discounts to teachers, often requiring valid school ID and available only at participating locations.
• Notable offers include Chick-fil-A giving free Chick-n-Minis or Chicken Sandwiches on May 5 in select locations, Chipotle hosting a giveaway for free entrée e-gift cards through May 12, and Whataburger providing free breakfast items on May 7.
• Other deals include McAlister’s Deli offering free tea, Potbelly giving a free cookie or drink with entrée purchase, Ruby Tuesday providing a free Garden Bar add-on with entrée purchase, and Insomnia Cookies planning teacher discounts from May 5-12.
• Multiple restaurants are also running gift card promotions with bonus rewards or discounts, including Applebee’s, Auntie Anne’s, Cinnabon, Jamba, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Outback Steakhouse, Panera Bread, Subway, and Texas Road House through various dates in May and June 2026.
• Additional grocery, restaurant, and retail deals for Teacher and Nurse Appreciation Weeks are available on the WRAL Smart Shopper page, with updates expected as more offers are announced.