National Doughnut Day
Get free doughnuts on National Doughnut Day! The first Friday in June, major chains like Krispy Kreme and Dunkin' offer free donuts. Originally honoring Salvation Army volunteers, it's now a beloved commercial celebration with millions of free donuts given away.
About National Doughnut Day
Get free doughnuts on National Doughnut Day! The first Friday in June, major chains like Krispy Kreme and Dunkin' offer free donuts. Originally honoring Salvation Army volunteers, it's now a beloved commercial celebration with millions of free donuts given away.
History & origins
National Doughnut Day began in 1938 in Chicago, where The Salvation Army created it to honor the women known as the Doughnut Lassies, who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. It is observed on the first Friday in June and remains especially popular in the United States, where it has also become a major food-deals day for chains and local shops alike. The holiday’s charitable origin is clear, but its modern commercial celebration is now a big part of its identity.
Why it matters
National Doughnut Day connects a fun dessert tradition to a real piece of wartime and charitable history. It also has become a notable retail event, driving traffic for bakeries and chains that use the day for free-donut promotions and limited-time offers. For many people, it is simply an easy, shared reason to enjoy a treat and support local shops.
How to celebrate
Get free donuts from participating chains. Try different donut flavors. Make homemade donuts. Visit local donut shops. Share donut photos on social media.
Facts
- National Doughnut Day started in 1938
- Americans eat 10 billion donuts annually
- Krispy Kreme and Dunkin' give away millions of free donuts
- The donut industry is worth over $7 billion in the US
- Originally honored Salvation Army Lassies who served donuts in WWI
Upcoming dates
- Friday, June 5, 2026
- Saturday, June 5, 2027
- Monday, June 5, 2028
- Tuesday, June 5, 2029
- Wednesday, June 5, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is National Doughnut Day 2026?
National Doughnut Day 2026 is on Friday, June 5, 2026. It always falls on the first Friday in June.
What is National Doughnut Day?
National Doughnut Day is an annual observance celebrating doughnuts and their cultural appeal. It also commemorates The Salvation Army’s Doughnut Lassies, who served doughnuts to troops during World War I.
Who started National Doughnut Day?
The Salvation Army started National Doughnut Day in 1938. It began in Chicago as a tribute to the Doughnut Lassies and their wartime service.
How do you celebrate National Doughnut Day?
The easiest way is to visit a participating shop for a free or discounted doughnut. You can also bake homemade doughnuts, try a new flavor, or support a local bakery.
Is National Doughnut Day an official holiday?
No, National Doughnut Day is not a federal holiday. It is a cultural and commercial observance with historical roots in Salvation Army history.
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