Americans can satisfy their sweet tooth for free today as coffee chains and bakeries across the country celebrate National Donut Day with complimentary treats and special deals.
The annual celebration, observed on the first Friday in June, traces its roots to the First World War, when The Salvation Army's “Donut Lassies” served freshly made donuts to American soldiers on the front lines in France. National Donut Day was first celebrated in Chicago in 1938 and created as a fundraiser to help those in need during the Great Depression, according to The Salvation Army's website. The organization has since continued to celebrate the holiday, with plans to distribute donuts to veterans across the U.S. this week.
Many beloved fast food chains commemorate the occasion every year, too, offering special freebies and discounts to customers. When Dunkin' customers purchase any beverage Friday, they'll receive one free donut of their choice. Tim Hortons rewards members can get a free classic or speciality donut when they buy any-sized drink, redeemable once a day through the company's app until June 7. Krispy Kreme is offering customers a free donut of their choosing, with no purchase necessary, and those who buy a dozen donuts Friday can get an Original Glazed Dozen for only $2.
Paris Baugette is offering a free Sugar Mochi or Small Twist Donut with any purchase Friday, available to new and existing members of the brand's rewards program. Customers can get a free Classic Donut at Duck Donuts Friday, with no purchase necessary. On June 5, 7-Eleven will offer its classic glazed donuts for only 50 cents each at participating locations for members of the 7Rewards loyalty program.
Shipley Do-Nuts is celebrating National Donut Day all month long, offering customers a free glazed donut with any purchase every Friday in June, redeemable by Shipley Rewards members in stores or online with the code DonutMonth26. Customers who are a part of Voodoo Doughnut can get a free donut in stores Friday, with no purchase required, and the first 100 customers to visit participating shops on National Donut Day will receive a free tote bag with any purchase.
