National Doughnut Day
June 6, Friday
History and Origins
National Doughnut Day was established in 1938 by the Salvation Army in Chicago. It was created both as a fundraiser during the Great Depression and to honor the "Doughnut Lassies"—female volunteers who provided comfort and food, including doughnuts, to American troops in France during World War I. These women played a significant role in boosting morale among soldiers.
Traditions and Celebrations
On National Doughnut Day, many doughnut shops and bakeries across the U.S. offer free doughnuts or special promotions. The day is celebrated by:
- Visiting local doughnut shops for free treats
- Sharing doughnuts with friends, family, and coworkers
- Learning about the history of the Salvation Army's involvement in World War I
- Participating in social media challenges or contests related to doughnuts
Popular Doughnut Varieties
There are countless types of doughnuts enjoyed on this day, including:
- Glazed
- Chocolate frosted
- Jelly-filled
- Boston cream
- Old-fashioned
- Crullers
- Cake doughnuts
Fun Facts
- The largest doughnut ever made weighed over 1.7 tons and was created in Utica, New York.
- The term "doughnut" and "donut" are both accepted spellings, though "donut" is more commonly used in the U.S.
- National Doughnut Day is different from other doughnut-related holidays, such as National Jelly-Filled Doughnut Day (June 8) and National Cream-Filled Doughnut Day (September 14).
National Doughnut Day is more than just an excuse to indulge in a sweet treat—it’s a celebration of history, community, and the enduring popularity of one of America’s favorite pastries. Whether you prefer yours glazed, filled, or sprinkled, it’s a great day to enjoy a doughnut and remember the meaningful origins behind the holiday.