National Donut Day 2026 Deals: Get Free Donuts at Krispy Kreme, Dunkin' and Tim Hortons
National Donut Day takes place on the first Friday in June, so it's officially arrived on June 5. While celebrating donuts is a fun and delicious activity, the holiday was actually founded on a more serious note.
The Salvation Army started the holiday in 1938 to honor the organization's Donut Lassies and Donut Girls, the women who went to France to serve donuts and goodies to soldiers during World War I, according to research from National Day Calendar. Today, the holiday is marked with donut deals across the nation.
"The story of the Donut Lassies is one of extraordinary courage," Commissioner Merle Heatwole, national commander of The Salvation Army, said in a news release provided to Men's Journal.
Heatwole added: "The women who traveled to the front lines of a world war displayed compassion and bravery. On this 88th National Donut Day, we honor their remarkable legacy alongside the veterans who have served this nation, reminding ourselves to carry that same spirit of joyful service into every community we serve."
Even though donuts make a great breakfast treat, you can get deals on the food item all day on Friday, June 5. Across the country, donut shops, from national chains to small businesses, are participating in National Donut Day. So, let's get into the deals.
National Donut Day Deals for 2026
At Krispy Kreme, customers can snag a free donut of their choice on June 5, no purchase necessary, the company said in a statement provided to Men's Journal. But, the deal is limited to one per guest and available in-shop and via the drive-thru. Also, customers are able to snag a dozen Original Glazed doughnuts for $2 if you buy any dozen at regular price.
At Dunkin', for a 16th consecutive year, the donut shop is offering a free donut on National Donut Day with the purchase of any beverage. They're also collaborating with the brand Stoney Clover Lane for a "sweeter, limited-edition collection" which includes "new, playful accessories, all inspired by Dunkin' staples."
Finally, Tim Hortons is also getting in on National Donut Day. Score a free donut with the purchase of a beverage at any Tim Hortons through June 7, so call this deal a full weekend of donut-loving incentives. You can get the deal once by using the offer in the Tim Hortons app.
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published June 5, 2026 at 10:49 AM.