National Donut Day 2026 is bringing sweet celebrations across the United States as major chains and local bakeries offer free doughnuts, discounts and limited-time promotions. National Donut Day returns on Friday, June 5, offering Americans another opportunity to indulge in one of the country's favorite sweet treats. From free doughnuts to special discounts, major chains such as Dunkin', Krispy Kreme, Duck Donuts and 7-Eleven are bringing out promotions to the occasion.
But beyond the freebies, the yearly celebration has a rich history grounded in service and sacrifice.
How National Donut Day began
The holiday, celebrated on the first Friday in June, was established by The Salvation Army in 1938 to honor the organization's Donut Lassies and Donut Girls. These women journeyed to France during World War I, where they served doughnuts and other refreshments to American soldiers stationed near the front lines.
As per The Salvation Army, the volunteers worked from makeshift huts, offering emotional and spiritual support, essential supplies and freshly fried doughnuts. Their attempts helped transform the humble pastry into a lasting symbol of comfort and encouragement for troops far from home.
"The story of the Donut Lassies is one of extraordinary courage," Commissioner Merle Heatwole, national commander of The Salvation Army, stated in a news release. "The women who traveled to the front lines of a world war displayed compassion and bravery. On this 88th National Donut Day, we honor their remarkable legacy alongside the veterans who have served this nation, reminding ourselves to carry that same spirit of joyful service into every community we serve."
To mark the occasion, The Salvation Army plans to distribute doughnuts to veterans in many U.S. cities and host extra events, including the National Donut Day World Donut Eating Championship in Washington, D.C.
Krispy Kreme offers free doughnuts and discounted dozens
One of the most anticipated National Donut Day promotions arrives from Krispy Kreme. The company is providing customers a free doughnut of their choice on June 5 without needing any purchase, the company said to USA TODAY
The offer is available in participating stores and through drive-thru locations, with a limit of one free doughnut per guest.
Additionally, customers who buy any dozen doughnuts at standard price can purchase a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for only $2.
"National Doughnut Day is one of our most joyful traditions – a moment to celebrate the doughnuts people love, the guests who inspire us every day and the simple happiness that comes from sharing something sweet," said Alison Holder, chief brand & product officer at Krispy Kreme, in a news release. "We’re excited to welcome everyone in on Friday to enjoy a free Krispy Kreme favorite and celebrate with us."
The company cited that specific limited-time and seasonal varieties are excluded from the promotion.
Dunkin' celebrates with free doughnuts and special merchandise
Dunkin' is also joining the festivities by providing a free doughnut to customers who buy any beverage on June 5 at participating locations.
The coffee and doughnut chain is extending the celebration through special merchandise created in partnership with retailer Stoney Clover Lane. The collection has themed bags, pouches, patches and charms inspired by the brand.
"National Donut Day is one of our favorite traditions at Dunkin', and this year we're making it even sweeter for our guests," stated Jill Nelson, chief marketing officer at Dunkin'. "From bringing back our free donut offer to expanding our Stoney Clover Lane collaboration and giving Dunkin' Rewards members more ways to join in, we're celebrating all week long."
More National Donut Day deals across the U.S.
Many other chains and independent bakeries are also participating in National Donut Day celebrations.
Duck Donuts is offering customers one free classic doughnut with no purchase required. The chain is also offering six classic doughnuts for $6 and a free rubber duck with the purchase of any dozen doughnuts while supplies last.
At 7-Eleven, members of the 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards programs can purchase classic glazed doughnuts for 50 cents each at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes locations. The retailer is also offering select 7-Select Mini Donut packs for $1, featuring flavors such as chocolate, cinnamon sugar, toasted coconut crunch and powdered sugar.
Sheetz customers can get a free doughnut when buying a fountain drink, Sheetz Bros Coffee or a bottled beverage on June 5.
Regional chains are joining in as well. Daylight Donuts is promoting a dozen doughnuts for $10 plus tax, while Burney’s Sweets & More in Raleigh, North Carolina, is offering a complimentary plain glazed doughnut or croissant without a purchase requirement, along with a discounted dozen-doughnut special.
A sweet tradition with a meaningful legacy
Although National Doughnut Day has become widely recognized for complimentary treats and limited-time offers, its roots remain firmly connected to the humanitarian work of the Doughnut Lassies who supported soldiers during one of the most difficult periods in modern history.
Today, as customers queue for free doughnuts and special promotions, the annual observance continues to honor both a beloved pastry and the extraordinary women whose generosity and compassion inspired a tradition that has endured for nearly 90 years.
FAQs:
Q1. What is National Donut Day?
National Donut Day is an annual celebration dedicated to doughnuts and their history in American culture. It is observed on the first Friday of June each year.
Q2. When is National Donut Day 2026?
National Donut Day 2026 falls on Friday, June 5. The date changes each year because it is tied to the first Friday of June.
