National Donut Day 2025 is set to delight sweet tooths across the United States on Friday, June 6, with a wide array of free treats, special discounts, and exclusive merchandise from beloved doughnut chains and local bakeries alike. This annual celebration, which began in 1938 as a charitable initiative by The Salvation Army to honor the "Donut Lassies" who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I, has blossomed into a nationwide event that honors both history and indulgence.
The Salvation Army continues to champion the day’s original spirit, raising awareness for veteran support programs while commemorating the heroic volunteers from the past. Salvation Army Commissioner Merle Heatwole emphasized the importance of the occasion, stating, "National Donut Day is a time to remember the lasting impact of a unique piece of history and to honor the heroic men and women who have served our country." On June 6, the organization plans to distribute doughnuts to veterans in cities across the country and host celebratory events, including the National Donut Day World Donut Eating Championship in Washington, D.C.
For those eager to join the festivities, numerous chains are rolling out enticing offers. Dunkin’ Donuts, a staple of the celebration for the 15th consecutive year, invites customers to enjoy a free classic donut with the purchase of any beverage at participating U.S. locations. This offer is available both in-store and through the Dunkin’ app, featuring favorites like Boston Kreme, Jelly, and Glazed donuts. Adding to the excitement, Dunkin’ has partnered with luxury lifestyle brand Stoney Clover Lane to launch a limited-edition merchandise collection. Available online starting at 10 a.m. Eastern Time on June 6, the collection includes a double-sided donut pouch priced at $78, featuring a strawberry frosted sprinkle donut on one side and a chocolate frosted sprinkle donut on the other. Additionally, fans can purchase donut-themed bag charms for $48 each and a set of four Dunkin’-inspired patches for $18. Select Dunkin’ locations will also offer acrylic and stainless-steel tumblers ($16.99 and $24.99 respectively), straw toppers ($6.99), and cup sleeves ($6.99) while supplies last.
Krispy Kreme is also making National Donut Day extra sweet by offering one free donut of choice to all customers with no purchase necessary. For those looking to indulge further, Krispy Kreme has a special deal: buy any dozen donuts and get a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for just $2. This deal is available both in stores and drive-thru locations nationwide. Following National Donut Day, Krispy Kreme will extend the celebration with its "14 Days of Original Glazed" promotion from June 7 through June 20. During this period, Krispy Kreme Rewards members can purchase a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for $9.99 once per day, along with other exclusive offers. On June 13, all guests can also purchase a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for a mere 13 cents with the purchase of any dozen at regular price.
Regional favorites are joining the fun as well. Shipley Do-Nuts, with over 350 shops across 13 states, is extending its National Donut Day celebration throughout June, offering free glazed donuts every Friday. Starting June 6, customers can receive a free glazed donut with any purchase. On June 13, Shipley offers a baker’s dozen—13 donuts for the price of 12—or alternatively, a free glazed donut with any purchase. The free glazed donut deal continues on June 20 and June 27, making June a month-long celebration of sweet treats.
Other chains are getting in on the action, too. Tim Hortons is running a weeklong promotion from June 2 through June 8, where Tims Rewards members can enjoy a free classic or specialty donut with the purchase of most beverages, redeemable through the Tim Hortons app. Paris Baguette offers PB Rewards members a choice of a free sugar mochi donut or a small twisted donut with any purchase on June 6. Meanwhile, Sheetz convenience stores are giving away a free flavored donut with the purchase of any fountain drink, Sheetz Bros Coffee, or bottled beverage through June 10, available via their app.
For those looking for no-purchase-necessary freebies, Duck Donuts is offering a free cinnamon sugar donut on National Donut Day, alongside a special deal of six cinnamon sugar donuts for $6, available both in-store and online. LaMar’s Donuts is also handing out free glazed donuts at all locations on June 6 without any purchase required. Best Donuts in Pearland, Texas, is giving away one free donut per customer with no purchase necessary, while Blackline Coffee & Donuts in Webster, Texas, is adding an element of surprise with hidden raffle tickets in donut boxes that offer free donuts, drinks, and other prizes. Coco's Donuts & Coffee Bar in Houston will reward its loyalty program members with free donut specials on the day.
Gas station chains are offering their own sweet deals too. Maverik’s Adventure Club and Kum & Go’s &Rewards members can receive 50% off all donuts on June 6, and Nitro cardholders at Maverik can claim a free donut. Additionally, 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards members at 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes can purchase classic glazed donuts for just 50 cents on National Donut Day. Lidl supermarket shoppers can grab a free glazed donut with any purchase on June 6 through the MyLidl app.
Beyond the deals, National Donut Day offers a fascinating glimpse into the pastry’s history. The modern doughnut traces its roots back to early Dutch settlers who brought "olykoeks"—fried dough balls without holes—to North America. The iconic ring-shaped donut, complete with a hole in the center, is credited to Hanson Gregory, an American seafarer who reportedly invented the design in the mid-19th century. The donut gained widespread popularity in the U.S. after a Chicago chapter of the Salvation Army served them to soldiers during World War I, a gesture that inspired the creation of National Donut Day in 1938.
Whether you’re a fan of classic glazed, cinnamon sugar, or more adventurous varieties, June 6 offers plenty of reasons to indulge. From free treats to exclusive merchandise and extended promotions, this year’s National Donut Day promises to be a delicious celebration of a uniquely American tradition.
