Chili's 3/13 is a recurring promotion that offers a free entrée to guests who purchase an adult entrée and an eligible non-alcoholic beverage on the 13th of each month. The promotion runs on a calendar-month basis and is available at participating locations, with standard menu and eligibility rules that can vary by restaurant. This explainer outlines how the offer works, which items typically qualify, and how you can use it as a predictable monthly dining benefit without relying on limited-time or seasonal framing.
How Chili's 3/13 promotion works
On or around March 13 of each year, Chili's runs a promotion that gives guests a free entrée when they purchase an adult entrée and an eligible non-alcoholic beverage on that date. The offer uses a calendar-date trigger rather than a rolling seven-day period, which makes it easy to remember and plan around. To receive the free item, guests usually need to order a qualifying entrée and a qualifying drink in the same transaction. The specifics, including eligible drinks and whether the free entrée must be the same or can be a lower-priced option, can vary by location and are subject to local franchise rules.
Typical qualification rules
- Purchase an adult entrée and an eligible non-alcoholic beverage in one transaction.
- Redeem the free entrée on the same visit or within the stated redemption window, if allowed.
- Excludes gift cards, alcohol, and promotional-priced items unless explicitly permitted.
- Participation and exact requirements may vary by individual restaurant.
Menu items commonly included
The free entrée is generally drawn from Chili's regular menu, with popular choices such as burgers, salads, pastas, and skillet favorites often eligible. Drink eligibility is usually limited to standard fountain soft drinks, iced tea, lemonade, and sometimes specialty non-alcoholic beverages available on the menu. To confirm current item eligibility, check the promotion details at your local restaurant or the chain's official digital ordering channels at the time of the 13th.
Timing and redemption details
The promotion is tied to the date March 13 in each calendar year, rather than to a fixed day of the week, so the offer falls on different weekdays over time. Some programs allow same-day redemption only, while others may permit a short window to use the free entrée after purchase. Billing and reward-system entries are generally processed on the transaction date, so keeping your receipt and loyalty registration active can help ensure eligibility if questions arise.
Regional and franchise variations
Because Chili's operates through company-owned and franchised locations, program rules and item availability can differ by market. In some regions, the promotion may include additional menu options or alternate redemption methods, while others may follow the baseline structure of an entrée reward with standard drink eligibility. Always review local terms on the restaurant's website or by calling ahead, especially if you rely on specific dietary options or large-group seating.
Comparing monthly restaurant promotions
| Promotion | Date or Frequency | Typical Eligibility Rules | Typical Redemption Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chili's 3/13 | March 13 annually | Adult entrée + eligible non-alcoholic beverage | Same visit or short window, per location |
| Fogo de Chão Third Birthday Month | Month of the guest's birthday | Reservation required; dining room eligibility may vary | During reservation or stated period |
| Outback Steakhouse Steakhouse 3rd Birthday | Birthday month | Enrollment required; eligible items vary | During birthday month |
| Texas Roadhouse Free Appetizer | First Tuesday of month | Usually any entrée purchase | Same visit |
How to maximize value from Chili's 3/13
To get the most from the promotion, plan your visit for March 13 and review the menu in advance to choose a higher-value entrée you already want. Pair it with an inexpensive non-alcoholic beverage to keep the overall spend efficient while still unlocking the free item. If you intend to visit with a larger party, reserve ahead and ask whether group seating or split checks are handled under the promotion. Remember that loyalty program status can affect how rewards post, so link your visit to your account and save any digital or printed confirmation for reference.
Common questions about Chili's 3/13
Because rules differ by restaurant, guests often ask whether the free entrée can be a different size or category, if it must be the same price as the purchased entrée, and whether alcohol or gift cards qualify. In most cases, the free entrée follows the core menu item rules and does not require price matching, but alcoholic drinks and gift card purchases are typically excluded. Checking the specific terms at your local location before ordering on March 13 helps avoid confusion at the register and ensures a smooth experience.
Bottom line on Chili's 3/13
Chili's 3/13 is a calendar-based promotion that delivers a free entrée when you purchase an adult entrée and an eligible non-alcoholic drink on March 13. By knowing the general qualification requirements, checking local rules in advance, and aligning the offer with meals you already want, you can treat it as a predictable monthly benefit. Use it as part of a planned dining routine rather than a one-time windfall to get steady value over time.