National Doughnut Day is a beloved American holiday celebrating the iconic sweet treat while honoring the brave Salvation Army volunteers who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I.
Quick Facts
When is it: First Friday in June (primary) and November 5 (secondary)
Tagged as: National Doughnut Day, National Donut Day
What’s the hashtag: #NationalDoughnutDay, #NationalDonutDay
When was it founded: 1938
Who founded it: The Salvation Army in Chicago
History
The holiday originated as a fundraiser by the Salvation Army to help those in need during the Great Depression. It commemorates the “Donut Lassies,” women who boosted soldiers’ morale by serving fresh donuts and coffee near the frontlines during WWI. These women, nicknamed “Doughnut Dollies,” would make up to 300 donuts daily by hand, often using soldiers’ helmets as makeshift fryers.
Timeline
- 1917: Salvation Army sends female volunteers to France
- 1938: First National Donut Day celebrated in Chicago
- 1950: “Donut” spelling popularized by Dunkin’ Donuts
- Present: Major donut chains offer free donuts annually
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | June | 7 | Friday |
| 2025 | June | 6 | Friday |
| 2026 | June | 5 | Friday |
| 2027 | June | 4 | Friday |
| 2028 | June | 2 | Friday |
| 2029 | June | 1 | Friday |
How It’s Observed
Many American bakeries and donut shops offer free donuts on this day. People celebrate by sharing donuts with friends, family, and first responders, continuing the tradition of spreading joy through these sweet treats.
Fun Facts About Donuts
- The donut’s hole was allegedly created by Captain Hanson Gregory using a pepper box
- The term “doughboys” for American soldiers predates the donut connection
- American POWs once tricked their Vietnamese captors into giving them donuts by claiming it was a Marine Corps tradition
Quiz
- When was the first National Donut Day?
- Who were the “Donut Lassies”?
- How many donuts would each Salvation Army volunteer make daily?
-(Answers: 1938; Women who served donuts to WWI soldiers; About 300)
FAQs
- Both “doughnut” and “donut” spellings are acceptable
- The holiday has two dates: June (primary) and November 5 (secondary)
- The tradition continues to honor both veterans and the Salvation Army’s service
Related Days
- National Cream-Filled Doughnut Day (September 14)
- National Jelly-Filled Doughnut Day (June 8)
- Buy a Doughnut Day (October 30)
- National Boston Cream Pie Day (October 23)