National Donut Day on Friday, June 6, offers donut lovers free treats and discounts at chains like Dunkin’, Krispy Kreme, and Shipley Do-Nuts while commemorating a World War I tradition.
Established in 1938 by The Salvation Army to honor its “Donut Lassies,” women who served donuts to soldiers in France during the war, the day carries historical weight.
“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,” said Merle Heatwole, The Salvation Army’s national commander, in a press release.
The organization will distribute donuts to veterans in several U.S. cities and host the National Donut Day World Donut Eating Championship at the National World War I Memorial in Washington, D.C. In Dallas, The Salvation Army is teaming up with the Dallas Cowboys to distribute donuts to local veterans at the Carr P. Collins Social Services Center on Harry Hines Blvd.
Krispy Kreme will offer one free donut of any flavor, no purchase required, on June 6, excluding limited-time varieties, with a one-per-guest limit while supplies last. Customers can also buy a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for $2 with the purchase of any dozen at the regular price.
“National Doughnut Day is one of our favorite days of the year to celebrate Krispy Kreme fans and how much they love and share our doughnuts, especially the Original Glazed,” said Chief Growth Officer Dave Skena.
The chain’s “14 Days of Original Glazed” promotion begins June 7, featuring a $9.99 dozen for Rewards members through June 20, a 13-cent dozen with a regular dozen purchase on June 13, and another $2 dozen deal on June 20, plus random drawings for a year of free monthly dozens starting July 2025.
Dunkin’ will provide a free classic donut with any beverage purchase on June 6 at participating locations, limited to one per guest. The chain is also launching a limited-edition online merchandise collection with Stoney Clover Lane at 10 a.m. ET, including a double-sided donut pouch, bag charms, and collectible patches. Select locations will serve single donuts in mini bags from the collaboration.
Shipley Do-Nuts is celebrating all month, offering a free glazed donut with any purchase every Friday in June. On June 13, every dozen donuts sold will be a baker’s dozen “to celebrate lucky 13.”
“The countdown to National Doughnut Day has officially begun! Celebrate with a Pink Raised Glazed Dozen for only $10,” Voodoo Doughnut announced on Facebook, offering a free donut with the purchase of its $10 Pink Raised Glazed Dozen, available in-store only.
For those who would like to try making these sweet treats at home, The Salvation Army has posted the original recipe for the donuts that the Donut Lassies served to soldiers to boost their morale during World War I.