National Doughnut Day: Fun Facts, History & Where to Find Doughnuts
Learn the sweet history behind National Doughnut Day and find doughnuts near you.
There's no sweeter way to kick off summer than with a doughnut! National Doughnut Day is celebrated every year on the first Friday in June, giving families the perfect excuse to enjoy a favorite treat while learning about the inspiring history behind the holiday.
Whether you're grabbing a dozen to share, searching for a new local doughnut shop, or simply looking for a fun family outing, National Doughnut Day is a delicious tradition worth celebrating.
📜 Why Do We Celebrate National Doughnut Day?
National Doughnut Day honors the brave Salvation Army volunteers who served soldiers during World War I.
In 1917, Salvation Army volunteers known as the "Doughnut Lassies" traveled to the front lines in Europe to provide food, comfort, and encouragement to American troops. Because cooking supplies were limited, many doughnuts were prepared in soldiers' helmets filled with oil. The treats quickly became a favorite among troops and helped boost morale during difficult times.
One of the most recognized Doughnut Lassies was Lt. Colonel Helen Purviance, who helped establish the tradition that inspired National Doughnut Day.
The Chicago Salvation Army officially launched National Doughnut Day in 1938 during the Great Depression to honor these volunteers and raise funds for those in need.
🍩 Doughnut or Donut?
Have you ever wondered which spelling is correct?
The traditional spelling is "doughnut," which appears in dictionaries and historical records. However, "donut" has been used since the 1800s and became increasingly popular through advertising and branding.
Good news: both spellings are correct, and both refer to the same delicious treat!
Did You Know?
🍩 National Doughnut Day is always celebrated on the first Friday in June.
🍩 The holiday began in Chicago in 1938.
🍩 Doughnuts were once cooked in soldiers' helmets during World War I.
🍩 The term "doughboy" was commonly used to describe American infantrymen during WWI.
🍩 Many shops offer specials, deals, or free doughnuts on National Doughnut Day.
🎉 Fun Ways to Celebrate National Doughnut Day
National Doughnut Day is a fun and easy way to create a sweet family memory. Here are a few ways to celebrate:
🍩 Visit a local doughnut shop
🍩 Share a dozen with friends or neighbors
🍩 Surprise your coworkers with breakfast
🍩 Try a new doughnut flavor
🍩 Learn more about the Salvation Army's history
🍩 Make homemade doughnuts with the kids
🍩 Donate to a local charity helping families in need
📍 Find Doughnuts Near You
Use the map below to search for doughnut shops near your area.
⭐ Family Doughnut Challenge
Make National Doughnut Day even more fun by turning it into a family adventure.
⭐ Visit a doughnut shop you've never tried before
⭐ Let each family member pick a unique flavor
⭐ Vote on the family's favorite doughnut
⭐ Take a photo and share it with friends
⭐ Create your own doughnut rating scale
💡 Macaroni KID Tip
Many national chains and local doughnut shops offer special promotions, discounts, or even free doughnuts on National Doughnut Day. Check your favorite local shops and social media pages to see what sweet deals are available near you!
🍩 Share Your Sweet Finds!
Celebrating National Doughnut Day with your family? Snap a photo of your favorite doughnuts and share it with us!
Whether you call them doughnuts or donuts, this is the perfect excuse to treat your family to something sweet while remembering the meaningful history behind this beloved holiday.
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