National Donut Day 2025 Complete Guide To Free Doughnuts And Sweet Deals Across The Us

National Donut Day 2025, celebrated on June 6, presents an annual opportunity for donut enthusiasts across the United States to enjoy free treats and special promotions from numerous chains and local shops. Established by The Salvation Army in 1938 to honor the "Donut Lassies" who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I, the occasion has evolved into a beloved unofficial food holiday marked by generous offers from major retailers. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the freebies, discounts, and special deals available to consumers during National Donut Day 2025, along with important details about redemption requirements and participation guidelines.

History of National Donut Day

National Donut Day has historical significance dating back to World War I, when The Salvation Army's "Donut Lassies" and "Donut Girls" established bases near the front lines in France to bake and serve doughnuts and other snacks to soldiers. The tradition continued, and The Salvation Army officially established National Donut Day in 1938 as a fundraiser during the Great Depression while also honoring the women who served doughnuts to soldiers overseas.

According to The Salvation Army's national commander Merle Heatwole, "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." The organization continues to observe the holiday by distributing doughnuts to veterans in several cities across the U.S. and hosting events, including the National Donut Day World Donut Eating Championship at the National World War I Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Major Chain Deals and Freebies

Dunkin' Offers

Dunkin', one of the largest coffee and donut chains in the United States, has celebrated National Donut Day for 15 consecutive years with a customer-friendly promotion. On June 6, 2025, Dunkin' will offer customers a free classic doughnut of their choice with the purchase of any beverage. The offer is available both in-store and through the Dunkin' mobile application, providing flexibility for customers to redeem their free donut through their preferred channel.

In addition to the free donut promotion, Dunkin' has partnered with luxury lifestyle brand Stoney Clover Lane to release a limited-edition accessories collection. The collaboration includes Dunkin' Patches, Dunkin' Iced Coffee & Donut Bag Charms, and the Dunkin' Donut Pouch. Some customers who take advantage of Dunkin's Donut Day deal may also receive a special mini donut bag to celebrate the recently-announced partnership with Stoney Clover Lane.

The Orange N' Vanilla Specialty Donut has been highlighted as a limited-time option available through the promotion, described as "a taste of summer nostalgia, the glazed cake donut is topped with a smooth vanilla flavored icing drizzle."

Krispy Kreme Promotions

Krispy Kreme has established itself as one of the most generous participants in National Donut Day celebrations. On June 6, 2025, Krispy Kreme customers will receive one free doughnut of their choice with absolutely no purchase required. The offer is available at participating Krispy Kreme locations across the United States, though it excludes specialty and limited-time doughnuts according to some sources.

For customers who wish to purchase additional doughnuts, Krispy Kreme has announced a special deal: customers who buy a dozen doughnuts can receive a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for just 13 cents on June 13. Following National Donut Day, Krispy Kreme will launch its "14 Days of Original Glazed" campaign from June 7-20, during which loyalty members can purchase a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for just $9.99.

Additionally, according to some sources, Krispy Kreme is offering customers a $2 Original Glazed donut with the purchase of any dozen donuts at the regular price. This offer is available for both in-store and drive-thru customers.

7-Eleven Discounts

7-Eleven, the convenience store chain, is participating in National Donut Day with a discounted offer for its rewards members. On June 6, 2025, 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards members can purchase a classic glazed doughnut for just 50 cents at participating locations. For customers who may not be rewards members, 7-Eleven has extended a special promotion, offering glazed doughnuts for $1 until June 24, 2025, providing additional opportunities to enjoy the sweet treat even after National Donut Day has passed.

Duck Donuts Freebies

Duck Donuts, a chain that specializes in made-to-order doughnuts, will celebrate National Donut Day by offering a free cinnamon sugar doughnut to all customers. The promotion is available in-store with no purchase necessary, making it an attractive option for those looking to enjoy a complimentary treat. Some sources specify that customers must visit one of the chain's locations in person to receive the freebie, indicating that the offer may not be available through delivery or drive-thru services.

Shipley Do-Nuts Specials

Shipley Do-Nuts, a doughnut company and coffee house chain, is treating customers to a free glazed Do-Nut with any purchase on National Donut Day. This promotion marks the beginning of a month-long "freebie Fridays" initiative at Shipley Do-Nuts, with additional free donut opportunities available on other Fridays throughout June. The company has been recognized for consistently participating in National Donut Day celebrations with similar customer-friendly offers.

Other Regional and Local Offers

In addition to the national chains, numerous regional and local doughnut shops are participating in National Donut Day with their own special promotions:

• Honey Dew Donuts: This Massachusetts-based chain will give customers a free donut with the purchase of a medium drink. Customers can choose from various options including the Apple Cider Donut, Butternut Donut, Honey Dew Donut, Lemon Filled Donut, and more.

• LaMar's Donuts & Coffee: Having "perfected the donut since 1933," this chain will treat its customers with special offers, though specific details were not fully disclosed in the source materials.

• Sheetz: This convenience store chain is offering a donut promotion that extends beyond National Donut Day, with the offer valid through June 10, 2025. The specific details of this promotion were not provided in the source materials.

• Stan's Donuts: Chicago-area residents who visit one of Stan's Donuts locations on June 6 can receive a free Chocolate Dipped Donut with any purchase of at least $2.30. The chain has added an element of surprise to its promotion, as any guest who receives a pink donut will win free donuts for a year.

• Tim Hortons: This popular chain will offer customers a free donut with the purchase of any beverage through June 8, 2025. Customers must activate the in-app offer for the freebie, and it can be used once per account every 30 minutes, allowing for multiple visits if desired.

• Voodoo Doughnut: Known for its creative and unconventional doughnut options, Voodoo Doughnut is selling "Pink Raised Glazed Dozens" for $10 on National Donut Day. Customers who purchase this dozen can receive a free doughnut of their choice, with options including Banana Cream Pie, Mango Tango, Cherry Cola, and Churro Cheesecake.

• Paris Baguette: This bakery chain is offering PB rewards members a free sugar mochi or mini twisted doughnut with a purchase on June 6.

Terms and Conditions to Note

While National Donut Day promotions offer exciting opportunities for free and discounted treats, several important terms and conditions apply to these offers:

1. Participation Requirements: Many offers require a purchase, such as a beverage or other item, to qualify for a free donut. Some offers are specifically tied to loyalty program membership or require app activation.

2. Location Limitations: Participation may vary by location, and not all franchise locations may participate in these promotions. Customers are encouraged to check with their local stores before making special trips.

3. Supply Limitations: Most offers are subject to availability and "while supplies last." Popular items may sell out early, particularly during the morning hours when demand is highest.

4. Product Exclusions: Some offers exclude specialty or limited-time doughnuts. Krispy Kreme's free donut offer, for example, does not apply to specialty or limited-time varieties according to some sources.

5. Offer Duration: While National Donut Day promotions are primarily focused on June 6, some chains extend their offers for a limited time afterward. 7-Eleven's discounted donuts are available through June 24, and Tim Hortons' offer extends through June 8.

6. Purchase Requirements: Dunkin' and other chains require the purchase of a beverage to receive a free donut. Krispy Kreme stands out as one of the few major chains offering a completely free donut with no purchase necessary.

7. App Requirements: Some offers, like Tim Hortons', require activation through the company's mobile app and have usage restrictions, such as one redemption per account every 30 minutes.

8. Age Restrictions: Though not explicitly mentioned in the source materials, many food promotions require customers to be of a certain age, typically 13 or 18 years old, to participate independently.

Salvation Army Observances

Beyond the commercial promotions, The Salvation Army continues to honor the origins of National Donut Day through meaningful observances. The organization plans to distribute doughnuts to veterans in several cities across the United States, continuing the tradition of service established by the original "Donut Lassies." Additionally, The Salvation Army will host the National Donut Day World Donut Eating Championship at the National World War I Memorial in Washington, D.C., combining entertainment with the holiday's historical significance.

These observances serve as a reminder that National Donut Day is not just about enjoying sweet treats but also about recognizing the historical context and charitable spirit behind the celebration. The Salvation Army encourages the public to participate in both the festivities and the commemorative aspects of the day.

Conclusion

National Donut Day 2025 offers numerous opportunities for consumers to enjoy free and discounted donuts from a wide variety of chains and local shops. From Dunkin's 15th consecutive year of offering a free donut with beverage purchase to Krispy Kreme's completely free donut with no strings attached, the options are abundant and accessible to different consumer preferences.

The historical significance of the day, established to honor The Salvation Army's "Donut Lassies" who served soldiers during World War I, adds depth to the festivities beyond mere indulgence. As consumers plan to take advantage of these sweet deals, it's important to note the various terms and conditions that apply, including purchase requirements, location limitations, and availability constraints.

Whether visiting a major chain like Dunkin' or Krispy Kreme, exploring regional offerings from shops like Stan's Donuts or Honey Dew Donuts, or supporting local businesses with their own National Donut Day specials, consumers have plenty of options to satisfy their sweet tooth while participating in this unique American food tradition. With offers extending beyond June 6 in some cases, the celebration of National Donut Day continues to provide joy and sweetness to communities across the United States.

Sources

1. National Doughnut Day 2025: Best Restaurant Freebies and Specials
2. National Donut Day 2025: Where to Get Free Donuts
3. National Donut Day 2025 Deals: Get Free Food at Dunkin', Krispy Kreme, LaMar's and More
4. It's National Doughnut Day 2025: Here's Where to Get Free Doughnuts
5. Free Sweet Treats for National Donut Day
6. National Donut Day Deals: Tasty Discounts for the Holiday