The day of the donut is back! National Donut Day is always the first Friday in June. In 2025 it’s this Friday, June 6th, and there are a few places to get a free or cheap donut!
The History of Donuts
Once upon a time, in a world where breakfast pastries reigned supreme, a humble treat rose to the top: the donut. The story of this delicious treat begins way back in the deep fryer of history.
Ancient Origins: The origins of donuts can be traced back to ancient times, where various cultures enjoyed fried dough. The ancient Greeks and Romans had a similar treat called “scriblita” and “globi,” which were basically dough fried in oil. (Yummy!)
Dutch Delights: Fast forward to the 17th century, and we find the Dutch settlers of New Amsterdam (now New York City) making a pastry called “olykoek” (which literally means “oil cake”). These early donuts were balls of dough fried in pork fat, often with apples, prunes, or raisins in the center.
The Holey Grail: Enter Hanson Gregory, an American ship captain, who in 1847 claimed to have invented the modern donut hole. Frustrated with the doughy center of traditional donuts, he punched a hole in the middle with a tin pepper box, ensuring his donuts cooked evenly. There you have it – the iconic ring shape was born!
World War I Boost: Donuts became even more popular during World War I when the Salvation Army Lassies served them to American soldiers in France. These “doughboys” returned home with a taste for the sweet, fried treat, cementing donuts’ place in American culture.
Rise of the Donut Chains: In the 20th century, donuts hit the big time with the rise of donut chains. In 1937, Krispy Kreme started serving their now-famous glazed donuts in North Carolina. Dunkin’ Donuts followed in 1950 in Massachusetts, becoming a staple for coffee and donut lovers everywhere.
Modern Innovations: Today, donuts are more popular than ever, with gourmet shops and innovative flavors popping up worldwide. From bacon-topped maple bars to matcha-glazed rings, the donut has evolved into a canvas for culinary creativity. Let’s continue making history with not only yummy donuts, but FREE ones!
Here’s a roundup of some freebies and deals around the Twin Cities!
Note: These deals can change at any time. Also, be careful not to expect freebies and deals at every donut shop out there. Please check before you go!
DC Donuts (Eagan) – Free dozen donut holes with purchase of a dozen donuts or more.
Dunkin’ – Get a free donut with any beverage purchase on Friday, June 6th, at Dunkin’ locations across the country.
Duck Donuts (Woodbury) – On Friday, June 6th, all guests who visit Duck Donuts in-store can enjoy a FREE cinnamon sugar donut! No purchase necessary. Plus, they are offering other deals that day: $1 off a medium hot or iced coffee, AND 6 Cinnamon Sugar Donuts for $6. There is one location in Minnesota – in Woodbury.
Jensen’s Market (Champlin) – Everyone is invited to stop in for a FREE Cinnamon Sugared Cake Donut to kick off our 1st year Celebration Party!
Holiday Gas Stations – Celebrate #NationalDonutDay at Holiday & Circle K with a 2/$1 special! No Coupon Needed – Today only!
Hy-Vee – $1 Glazed Donuts.
Kwik Trip – Free Long John for rewards members. Offer valid 6/6/25 only. Limit 1 redemption. Add offer in your Kwik Rewards® account via kwikrewards.com or Kwik Rewards® mobile app to activate offer.
Mochi Dough (Golden Valley) -Get a FREE mochi donut with every 3 donuts you buy – only on June 6th!! Located at 7724 Olson Memorial Hwy, MN 55427.
Paris Baguette – Free Sugar Mochi or Small Twisted Donut for rewards members.
NOTE: This list will be getting updated with more freebies – many haven’t been announced yet.
Other Possibilities
Are you a rewards member for a place not on this list? Check your inbox – some are exclusive for rewards members or email subscribers. Many don’t announce the freebies and deals until the day of.
Make your own!
To make your own homemade, healthful donut, try this recipe for “Skinny Sweet Potato Donut Bites” from Sneaky Blends by Missy Chase Lapine! We made this recipe and loved it! (Read my full cookbook review here.)
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