Celebrate National Donut Day: FRI June 6th, 2025

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Celebrate National Donut Day: A Sweet Tradition with a Rich History

Every year on the first Friday of June, Americans across the country celebrate National Donut Day—a delightful holiday that honors not only one of the nation’s favorite treats but also the heroes who helped popularize them. This year, the celebration lands on Friday, June 6, 2025, and donut lovers are ready to indulge in their favorite sugary confections, from classic glazed rings to over-the-top creations covered in bacon or cereal.

The History Behind the Holiday

National Donut Day isn’t just about satisfying your sweet tooth. It was actually established in 1938 by the Salvation Army in Chicago as a way to honor the “Donut Lassies”—brave women who served donuts to soldiers on the front lines during World War I. These women provided comfort, morale, and a taste of home to the troops, and their donut-making efforts became legendary.

What started as a fundraising effort during the Great Depression has grown into a fun and flavorful national event.

How to Celebrate

1. Grab a Free Donut!
Many major donut shops, bakeries, and cafes across the U.S. offer free donuts or special deals on National Donut Day. Keep an eye out for promotions from places like Dunkin’, Krispy Kreme, and local favorites in your area.

2. Support a Local Bakery
Skip the chain drive-thru and visit a locally owned bakery. Many small businesses roll out limited-edition donuts or creative flavor combinations just for the occasion.

3. Host a Donut Party
Whether it’s in the office, at school, or just with friends at home, bring in a variety of donuts and let everyone sample something new. Pair them with coffee, milk, or even mimosas for a festive morning.

4. Try Making Your Own
For the adventurous foodie, making donuts at home can be a fun activity. From deep-fried yeast donuts to baked cake donuts, there are endless recipes online. Don’t forget the sprinkles!

Fun Donut Facts

Americans consume more than 10 billion donuts every year.
The largest donut ever made weighed 1.7 tons and was created in Utica, New York, in 1993.
In the U.S., there are over 25,000 donut shops, with the highest concentration in Massachusetts and California.

Beyond the Glaze

National Donut Day is more than a sugar rush—it’s a reminder of how something as simple as a pastry can carry rich cultural meaning and a slice of history. Whether you’re honoring the legacy of the Salvation Army’s “Donut Lassies” or simply treating yourself, take a moment to savor every bite.

So go ahead—grab a donut (or three), support your local bakers, and share the joy.

Happy National Donut Day!