Each year on the first Friday in June, people participate in National Doughnut or Donut Day, celebrating the doughnut and honoring the Salvation Army Lassies.
The Salvation Army Lassies are the women who served doughnuts to soldiers during WWI. In 1917, the original “Salvation Army Doughnut” was first served by the ladies of the Salvation Army. It was during WWI that the Salvation Army Lassies went to the front lines of Europe. Home-cooked foods, provided by these brave volunteers, were a morale boost to the troops. The doughnuts were often cooked in oil inside the metal helmets of American soldiers. American infantrymen were then commonly called “doughboys.” A more standard spelling of the word is “donut.”
Almost a century later, people still can’t get enough of the delicious, anytime-of-day treats, and several companies known for their pastry prowess are ready to help you celebrate — with free doughnuts and other sweet deals, USA Today reports.
Krispy Kreme
All customers can get a free doughnut on Friday — plus an extra one if they have proof of Covid-19 vaccination. It’s a continuation of the doughnut giant’s vaccine incentive program, which has given away more than 1.5 million glazed doughnuts since its inception this past March. Additionally, the company will offer customers a $1 glazed dozen with any purchase of a dozen doughnuts.
Dunkin’ Donuts
Customers will receive a free classic doughnut with the purchase of any beverage. On Thursday at 12 p.m. ET, the chain’s #NationalDonutDay collection, a customizable, doughnut-themed merch line available for a limited time, goes live on the Dunkin’ site.
Duck Donuts
A bare, cinnamon-sugar or powdered-sugar doughnut is up for grabs at Duck Donuts this Friday — no purchase required.
Entenmann’s Donuts
Now until June 21, Entenmann’s is accepting nominations for its “EntenMAN of the Year” Father’s Day Contest. Nominees can be “male or female; dad, coach, teacher or any inspiring person in their life,” five of which will be chosen for a chance to win the title, a year’s supply of Entenmann’s Donuts and an all-expenses-paid trip to Daytona International Speedway.
Tim Hortons
Beginning this Thursday and continuing through June 15, registered rewards members can get one classic or specialty doughnut for 50 cents with any eligible purchase over 50 cents. Customers can scan for their rewards in restaurants or via mobile or delivery order.