National Doughnut Day Deals
Free doughnuts for everyone! The first Friday in June, chains like Krispy Kreme and Dunkin' give away free doughnuts. This sweet tradition celebrates the Salvation Army's 'doughnut lassies' who served treats to WWI soldiers.
About National Doughnut Day Deals
Free doughnuts for everyone! The first Friday in June, chains like Krispy Kreme and Dunkin' give away free doughnuts. This sweet tradition celebrates the Salvation Army's 'doughnut lassies' who served treats to WWI soldiers.
History & origins
National Doughnut Day Deals traces back to 1938, when The Salvation Army created the first National Donut Day in Chicago to honor its World War I “Doughnut Lassies” and support its charitable work during the Great Depression. The observance is rooted in the service of Salvation Army volunteers who fried doughnuts for American soldiers in France in 1917, helping popularize the treat in the United States. Today, it remains an informal annual promotion tied to the first Friday in June, especially in the U.S.
Why it matters
National Doughnut Day Deals matters because it turns a food holiday into a major consumer event, driving traffic for bakeries, coffee shops, and national chains. It also keeps the history of the Salvation Army’s wartime volunteers in public memory while supporting a tradition of giving away or discounting doughnuts.
How to celebrate
Visit doughnut shops for free treats. Download apps for exclusive offers. Try new doughnut flavors. Share doughnut deals on social media. Visit multiple shops (if you dare!).
Facts
- Started in 1938 by the Salvation Army
- Krispy Kreme and Dunkin' give away millions of free doughnuts
- Many local bakeries join in with deals
- It honors Salvation Army volunteers from WWI
- Americans eat over 10 billion doughnuts annually
Frequently asked questions
When is National Doughnut Day Deals in 2026?
National Doughnut Day Deals in 2026 is on Saturday, June 6, 2026.
What is National Doughnut Day Deals?
National Doughnut Day Deals is the name often used for the annual doughnut holiday centered on free doughnuts and special promotions. It celebrates a sweet food tradition while spotlighting the Salvation Army’s historical connection to doughnut service during World War I.
Who started National Doughnut Day Deals?
The Salvation Army started the observance in 1938 in Chicago. It was created to honor the service of the “Doughnut Lassies” and to raise awareness for the organization’s charitable work.
How do you celebrate National Doughnut Day Deals?
Visit participating doughnut shops, use restaurant apps for offers, and try seasonal flavors or limited-time bundles. Many people also share deals with friends or visit more than one bakery to compare promotions.
Is National Doughnut Day Deals an official holiday?
No, it is an informal observance rather than a federal holiday. Its popularity comes from tradition, charity history, and retailer promotions rather than official government status.
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