National Doughnut Day

National Doughnut Day is celebrated each year on the first Friday of June, a day devoted to honouring the beloved doughnut and its place in American culture. This fun food-holiday invites doughnut lovers everywhere to indulge in their favourite flavours, support local bakeries, and reflect on the sweet treat’s historical significance.

History of National Doughnut Day

What we now enjoy as Doughnut Day originated in 1938 when the The Salvation Army launched the celebration in Chicago to recognise the “doughnut lassies” — the women volunteers who served doughnuts and coffee to American soldiers during World War I.
Over time, the event evolved into a joyful, nationwide observance. On the first Friday in June, doughnut shops across the U.S. often offer free or discounted doughnuts — turning a historic tribute into a tasty annual tradition.

Why is National Doughnut Day important?

Beyond simply celebrating a tasty snack, this day reminds us of the doughnut’s role in morale-building and charitable tradition — particularly how those treats served as comfort for soldiers during wartime. It connects food, history and gratitude in a way that’s sweet and accessible.
Moreover, the holiday supports small businesses, local bakeries and community gathering spots. Doughnut shops often see increased traffic, enjoy creative promotions and engage customers in special ways on this day.
Here are some key reasons:

• It commemorates the women volunteers who served doughnuts to soldiers in WWI.
• It honours the doughnut as a part of American culinary and social history.
• It helps drive awareness and support for local bakeries and sweet-treat businesses.
• It offers a light-hearted moment of celebration and treat-sharing among friends, families and communities.
• It invites people to indulge in something fun, while also recognising food’s role in community and culture.

How to Celebrate (or Observe) National Doughnut Day

Celebrating this day is delightfully simple and open to everyone. A classic way is to visit your local doughnut shop on the first Friday in June and treat yourself to your favourite flavour. Many bakeries run specials, release limited-edition flavours or give away free doughnuts with a purchase.
At home, you might bake your own doughnuts or host a small gathering where friends bring their favourite flavours to share. The emotional side is about enjoying a moment of sweetness, appreciating the treat—and perhaps remembering the story behind it.
Here are some practical ideas:

• Visit a local doughnut bakery and try a flavour you haven’t had before.
• Share doughnuts with friends, family or colleagues as a small gesture of appreciation.
• Bake homemade doughnuts, experimenting with toppings or fillings like jam, chocolate or glaze.
• Use the day as an occasion to support independent or family-owned doughnut shops in your neighbourhood.
• Post a photo of your doughnut-treat on social media and mention the holiday to spread the joy.

National Doughnut Day Dates Table