Is Today National Donut Day 2025? Dates, Free Doughnut Deals & Sweet History Explained

Yes—today, Friday, June 6, 2025, is officially National Donut Day in the United States. Observed on the first Friday of every June since 1938, the holiday honors the Salvation Army “Doughnut Lassies” who served treats to soldiers during World War I and World War II. Below is everything you need to know about this year’s celebration, including free-donut offers, limited-time flavors, and tips for scoring the best deals. When is National Donut Day 2025? • Date: Friday, June 6, 2025 • Recurrence: First Friday in June each year • Next year’s date: June 5, 2026 Where to Get Free or Discounted Donuts Today (NOTE: Participation varies by location—confirm with your nearest store before heading out.) 1. Krispy Kreme • Offer: One free doughnut of any variety, no purchase required. • Extra perk: $2 Original Glazed dozen with purchase of any full-priced dozen (in-shop only, while supplies last). 2. Dunkin’ • Offer: Free classic donut with any beverage purchase (hot or iced coffee, tea, refresher, or espresso drink). • DD Perks members may receive bonus points when scanning the app. 3. Tim Hortons • Offer: $0.50 classic donuts via the Tims app with purchase of a beverage. • Limited-time flavor: Maple Cruller Twist, available through June 9. 4. Shipley Do-Nuts • Offer: Free glazed donut with any purchase, in-store and drive-thru. 5. Local bakeries & grocery stores • Many independent shops run BOGO promos, specialty flavors (think ube, churro, or matcha), and social-media giveaways. Search “National Donut Day near me” for neighborhood options. New & Limited-Edition Flavors to Try • Strawberry Shortcake Filled Ring (Krispy Kreme) • Brown Butter Salted Caramel Old-Fashioned (select artisanal shops) • Fruity-Pebbles Cake Donut (regional grocery chains) A Quick History Lesson National Donut Day began in Chicago in 1938 when the Salvation Army launched a fundraiser to support people affected by the Great Depression. The tradition celebrates volunteers who fried doughnuts in helmets and delivered them to troops on the front lines. Over the decades, it has grown into a nationwide event marked by giveaways, charity drives, and sweet new recipes. How to Celebrate Beyond Freebies • Host an office donut tasting—pick up an assorted dozen and vote on favorites. • Try a DIY donut kit with kids at home; many bakeries sell take-and-decorate boxes. • Post your haul on social media with #NationalDonutDay to enter brand sweepstakes for gift cards and swag. • Donate to veteran support organizations to honor the holiday’s roots in military aid. Frequently Asked Questions Is National Donut Day always the first Friday in June? Yes. While some communities also mark a fall “National Doughnut Day” in November, the June observance is the widely recognized event. Do spellings “donut” and “doughnut” both count? Absolutely—major chains popularized “donut” for brevity, but both refer to the same delicious pastry. Can diabetics or gluten-sensitive folks celebrate? Many bakeries now offer keto, sugar-free, or gluten-free donuts; preorder to guarantee availability. Bottom Line If you woke up asking, “Is today National Donut Day?”—the answer is a resounding yes. Whether you’re grabbing a free classic glazed on your morning commute or sampling a trendy cereal-topped creation, today is the perfect excuse to indulge. Don’t forget to check store apps for bonus rewards, arrive early before supplies run out, and share the sugary joy with friends, coworkers, and the community that started it all.