If you got out of the house today and saw long queues in the local donut stores, don’t panic: You are not going crazy. It’s National Donut Day Upcoming: 2025 Year and all over America, people are observing this sugary, feel-good national holiday with free donuts, limited edition flavors and some good old nostalgia.
Every first Friday of June is celebrated as National Donut Day in America, two days after observing “Memorial Day” and serves as a tribute to World War I heroes. The holiday has become a ritual enjoyed by families, foodies and donut lovers across the spectrum of America.
Small or large, Dunkin’ and Krispy Kreme’s iconic shops are flooded with meter long lines and entire country shifts to ‘donut mode’ on this day. In these hard economic times, who wouldn’t appreciate a tasty treat which also comes with no charge?
A Slice of National History With Donuts
Before diving into the mouthwatering deals, allow me to remind you why this national day of celebration exists in the first place.
The roots of National Donut Day traces back to 1938 when The Salvation Army launched a campaign aimed at honoring ‘The Donut Lassies.’ Volunteers who served comforting donuts to American soldiers during Wold War I. Because during the war, women did not only serve food, They ensured that soldiers had a taste of home.
The celebration persists today, albeit in a different form. It is combined with other acts of kindness, compassion, and caring connection.
”Doughnuts may seem really tiny, but they do unite the community,” stated a quoted statement by a worker in a nearby Krispy Kreme’s. “That’s the real appeal.”
🍩 Where to Get Free Donuts Today
Drive on down for an efficient way to receive a sugary surprise. Not a penny spent. Just a dash of sugar in the tank will do, and, create a smile along the way.

Krispy Kreme’s Grand Giveaways
- Today, every client walks away with a free doughnut of their choosing.
- Those who buy any box of a dozen doughnuts receive another dozen of Original Glazed for the unbeatable price of $2.
- Starting today till June 20, ‘glaze days’ promotion is active for 14 days straight.
“Get ready, it’s the most wonderful bite of the year. Head on over May 6th for our National donut day celebration!”
Dunkin’s Classic Combo
- Obtain a free classic donut when purchasing any drink.
- Also, they have launched a collab with Stoney Clover Lane fashion for a limited time featuring pouches and patches of pink donuts.
- Today only! New flavor alert: “Berry Bliss Donut” is now available.
The Salty (Now in Austin!)
- As a part of celebrating their new store in Austin, The Salty is giving away a Maple French Toast donut today, for one day only.
- Customers are eligible to receive tote bags, gift cards, and other exclusive merchandise via in-store raffles.
Why This Day Feels Bigger in 2025
This year’s donut Day has a different feel, perhaps that it is because people are looking for comfort, or social media makes everything feel more connected, or perhaps… it’s just a brilliant justification to indulge in donuts without any regret.
Regardless of the reason, the vibes are high.
Instagram is overloaded with videos and pictures of people showcasing their pink, frosted donuts, kids with powdered sugar dusted on their noses, friends eagerly waiting in line for freebies.
Refer to this post shared, on Instagram, by @dunkin:
The hashtag #NationalDonutDay2025 is trending on TikTok, gaining upwards of 2 million views, and counting.
The Real Joy Is In the Little Things
For some people, today represents ceasing work to socialize over a sugary snack. As a New Jersey Dunkin’ Store opens for business, 72-year-old Diane and her granddaughter are all smiles and ready to order a couple of iced coffees. Getting the cutest selfie, all smiles, with a sprinkle-bearing whipped cream cup was the cherry on top of this heartwarming moment, according to Diane.
“Her getting the Boston cream and me getting sprinkles on my donut. That’s the good stuff busting the sugar high,” said a proudly nostalgic Diane.
All ‘set’ for a grand day out, the only thing left were tiny moments of laughter intertwined with warm donuts. That said, it is easy to forget about joy in tough situations, but something as simple as laughter can change that.
FAQs
When is National Donut Day 2025?
National Donut Day falls on Friday, June 6, 2025, which is the first Friday of June.
What is the history of National Donut Day?
The history of National Donut Day dates back to 1938 when the Salvation Army established the day to honor the volunteers who served donuts to soldiers fighting in WWI.
Which donut chains are giving free donuts?
Krispy Kreme, Dunkin’, and The Salty are just a few donut chains offering free donuts or special deals.
Do I have to buy something to get a free donut?
If you want a donut from Krispy Kreme, you do not need to purchase anything. At Dunkin’, you will need to buy a drink, and at participating local shops it will vary.
What is Krispy Kreme’s “14 Days of Glaze”?
The “14 Days of Glaze” promotion is a series of promotional offers sponsored by Krispy Kreme from June 7–20. For example, on June 13, customers can get a 2nd dozen donuts for 13¢.
What donuts are being launched today?
Dunkin’ is proud to announce the launch of its newest donut, “Berry Bliss” , and The Salty’s newest donut is “Maple French Toast”.
Is National Donut Day celebrated outside of the U.S.?
Mostly in the U.S. With that being said, some countries that have Dunkin’ or Krispy Kreme do celebrate National Donut Day.
Image Source: The Krazy Coupon Lady