When is National Donut Day?
National Donut Day, is held on the first Friday of June. National Donut Day 2021 is Friday, June 4, 2021.
National Donut Day History
The origin of National Donut Day is attributed to The Salvation Army and the “Lassies” – the women who volunteered on the front lines of the First World War in Europe.
The Salvation Army thought that the morale of the American soldiers could be improved with what they called “huts” – that is, social centres where baked goods, writing supplies and stamps, and a clothes-mending service were provided.
Obviously, it was difficult to supply freshly-baked goods to the huts that were essentially “pop-ups” inside abandoned buildings near the front lines.
Because of that, Salvation Army volunteers came up with the idea of providing donuts. The helmets of the American soldiers were even used as a cooking vessel for the donuts.
In 1917, the original “Salvation Army Donut” was made and were an instant hit with the soldiers. The women who made them became known as the “Doughnut Lassies.”
Later on, in 1938, National Donut Day emerged as a fundraiser for Chicago’s Salvation Army. Their goal was to help those in need during the Great Depression and honour the “Lassies” of the First World War.
To learn more, see salvationarmy.ca/blog/national-doughnut-day.
Who gives free donuts on National Donut Day 2021?
National Donut Day at Krispy Kreme
Krispy Kreme is offering ONE free doughnut per person. This offer is valid on Friday, June 4 2021 in participating shops only and cannot be redeemed online. Please contact your local Krispy Kreme to confirm the offerings. Read my post on Krispy Kreme National Donut Day deal.
National Donut Day at Tim Hortons
Tim Hortons has a National Donut Day deal where you can get a free donut with the purchase of any beverage through the Tim Hortons mobile app. Read my post on Tim Hortons National Donut Day deal.
