Wawa, the beloved convenience store and gas station chain, is celebrating its 61st birthday on April 16, 2025, by giving away free hot coffee of any size at all its locations across the United States. This year, the company expects to distribute approximately 1.5 million cups of coffee as part of its annual Wawa Day celebration.
The first Wawa store opened in 1964 in Folsom, Pennsylvania, and since then, the chain has expanded significantly, with more than 1,100 locations now serving customers in states including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Florida, North Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Washington D.C., and the newly added Ohio.
“Every year, Wawa Day is a chance to reflect on our roots, honor all the people and partners that have been part of our Wawa story and helped us achieve this tremendous milestone, and look ahead to the many ways we will continue to grow both our offering and our Wawa family,” said Chris Gheysens, Wawa’s CEO, in a statement to NBC Philadelphia.
In addition to the free coffee giveaway, Wawa is also welcoming its first store in Ohio, located in Liberty Township, which is a significant milestone as it marks the company's entry into its tenth U.S. state. Customers visiting the new Ohio location can enjoy their complimentary coffee and sample other menu items as part of the celebration.
Wawa Day not only highlights the company’s success but also its commitment to community outreach. Starting on April 21, 2025, the Wawa Foundation will distribute $350,000 in gift cards to seven national organizations, supporting various causes that aid those in need.
“This April 16th, we invite our customers to join us for a cup of free coffee on us, celebrate good times by checking out some heart-warming videos of our customers on Wawa.com, and join us in welcoming Ohio to the flock as we begin our Midwest expansion. Cheers to 61 years!” Gheysens added.
As part of the anniversary festivities, Wawa is also offering special food promotions, which have been a tradition during past anniversaries. Customers can look forward to enjoying not just coffee but also various food items available at their local stores.
The coffee giveaway is available all day on April 16, with no purchase necessary and no membership required. Customers can simply walk into any Wawa location and grab a self-serve hot coffee of any size, up to 24 ounces, with a limit of one cup per person.
Wawa's expansion plans are ambitious, with the company aiming to open up to 100 new stores each year, ultimately reaching 2,000 locations by 2030. This strategy reflects Wawa's commitment to growth and customer service, ensuring that more communities can experience the convenience and quality that Wawa is known for.
For many, Wawa is more than just a convenience store; it's a community hub where customers have formed lasting relationships with employees and fellow patrons. The company regularly shares stories from dedicated customers and employees on its website, showcasing how much Wawa means to the communities it serves.
As Wawa continues to grow, it remains focused on its core values of providing quality products and fostering community connections. With the free coffee event and the opening of new locations, Wawa is poised to make a significant impact in Ohio and beyond.
So, whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, April 16 is a perfect opportunity to celebrate Wawa’s legacy and enjoy a free cup of coffee. With locations conveniently scattered across many states, there’s likely a Wawa nearby, making it easy for everyone to join in the festivities.
As Wawa Day approaches, excitement builds among fans eager to partake in this annual tradition. From the first store in Folsom to a growing presence across the East Coast and now into the Midwest, Wawa's journey has been remarkable, and its commitment to customer satisfaction remains unwavering.
For more information on Wawa’s anniversary celebrations and to find a location near you, visit Wawa.com.
