LeVar Thomas
Mark your calendars and bring your sweet tooth — National Donut Day lands on Thursday, June 6th, and it’s more than just a reason to indulge in glazed goodness. It’s a celebration rooted in history, culture, and, most importantly, deliciousness. Whether you’re a jelly-filled fanatic or prefer the simple bliss of a classic cake donut, this day is your excuse to go all in — guilt-free.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
- The origins of National Donut Day
- Where to score free and discounted donuts
- Fun ways to celebrate at home or with friends
- Unique donut trends to try in 2025
Let’s bite in.
A Sweet History: The Origins of National Donut Day
Believe it or not, National Donut Day isn’t just a marketing gimmick. The tradition dates back to 1938, when The Salvation Army created the day to honor the “Donut Lassies” — women who served donuts to soldiers during World War I. These volunteers not only brought comfort through warm pastries but also uplifted morale on the battlefield.
So every time you take a bite on June 6, you’re also paying homage to these historic women and their sweet legacy.
Where to Get Free Donuts on June 6th
Let’s be real — the best part of National Donut Day is the freebies and deals. Many national chains and local bakeries offer generous promotions, and 2025 is shaping up to be a sugary jackpot.
Here are some places to check out:
Krispy Kreme:
They usually offer one free donut of your choice — no purchase required. In 2024, they even gave away an extra free donut to anyone who wore donut-themed attire!
Dunkin’:
Expect a free classic donut with any beverage purchase. Plus, Dunkin’ often rolls out limited-edition flavors just for the day.
Shipley Do-Nuts:
Historically, they’ve offered free glazed donuts from open to noon. Participating locations only, so call ahead.
Local Bakeries:
Check your city’s neighborhood favorites — many independent donut shops use the day to showcase specialty flavors, host tastings, or offer buy one, get one free deals. Supporting them adds a community twist to your celebration.
Beyond the Freebie: Creative Ways to Celebrate
Want to elevate your donut day beyond the box? Here are a few inclusive, engaging ways to make the most of June 6.
1. Host a Donut Tasting Party
Grab a variety of donuts from local shops — cake, yeast, filled, frosted, or cronut hybrids — and let your friends rank them based on texture, flavor, and creativity. You could even create a scorecard and crown a winning donut.
2. Make Your Own Donuts
Whether you bake or fry, homemade donuts are a fun project for any skill level. Try vegan or gluten-free recipes to accommodate dietary needs and invite everyone in on the fun.
3. Pair Donuts with Coffee or Cocktails
Try pairing donuts with your favorite morning brew or even a creative evening cocktail. Think espresso-glazed donuts with a vanilla bourbon cream, or lemon-filled donuts with a citrusy gin spritz.
4. Support a Donut-Themed Charity
Return to the holiday’s origins by donating to or volunteering with organizations like The Salvation Army, or a local nonprofit that offers food support in your community.
5. Dress the Part
Rock donut-themed socks, tees, hats, or even earrings. Share your outfit on social media with the hashtag #NationalDonutDay for a chance to be featured by your favorite brand.
Donut Trends to Try in 2025
If you’re a foodie who loves to stay ahead of the curve, you’ll be delighted by this year’s newest donut trends:
- Savory Donuts: Think everything bagel seasoning, bacon-cheddar, or jalapeño cornbread-style.
- Plant-Based Perfection: Vegan donuts have come a long way, with options that rival their traditional counterparts.
- Global Flavors: Expect more international inspiration, like mochi donuts (Japan), churro donuts (Mexico), or gulab jamun-style donuts (India).
- Mini Donuts: Perfect for sampling, sharing, or creating your own DIY donut charcuterie board.
- Donut Art: Bakeries are stepping up their design game with hand-painted glazes, edible flowers, and geometric shapes.
Celebrate Inclusively
National Donut Day is for everyone — no matter your background, diet, or donut preference. If you have food allergies or follow a plant-based diet, more shops than ever are offering vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, and low-sugar options. Don’t hesitate to ask your local baker about accommodations — inclusive menus are on the rise.
Fun Facts to Drop While Munching
- The word “donut” was popularized in the U.S. in the 20th century, but the original spelling is “doughnut.”
- The average American eats 63 donuts a year. Yes, you read that right.
- The largest donut ever made weighed over 1.7 tons and was a jelly-filled behemoth.
- Boston has the most donut shops per capita of any U.S. city.
- In 2023, a donut from Manila topped charts with gold flakes and champagne jelly — priced at over $100!
Before You Go: Pro Tips for Donut Day
- Arrive Early: Many shops run out of free donuts by noon.
- Double Check: Not all franchises participate in national promotions, so check ahead online or call.
- Be Kind: Employees deal with high demand on June 6 — a smile and a thank you go a long way.
- Stay Social: Use hashtags like #NationalDonutDay, #FreeDonuts, and #DonutLoversUnite to connect with other donut fans and businesses offering surprise promos.
Sweet Ending
Whether you’re grabbing a free glazed donut on your commute, planning a full-on donut bar at your office, or just using the day as an excuse to indulge your cravings, National Donut Day is your moment to shine, snack, and smile. It’s more than a sugar rush — it’s a celebration of community, history, and joy.
So this June 6, raise a donut to the sky and take a bite of tradition.
