Sink Your Teeth into the Sweet History of National Donut Day
The Origins of a Sweet Tradition
Every year, on the first Friday of June, donut lovers around the world come together to celebrate National Donut Day. This sugary holiday, which originated in the United States, has a rich history dating back to 1938 when it was first created by the Salvation Army in Chicago. The organization's "Donut Lassies" – a group of women who served donuts to soldiers during World War I – were the inspiration behind this sweet tradition. The Salvation Army created National Donut Day as a way to honor the Donut Lassies and to raise funds for the needy during the Great Depression. Over the years, this holiday has evolved into a global celebration with many countries, including Canada, Australia, and the UK, participating in the festivities.A Hole Lot of Fun: How to Celebrate National Donut Day
Today, National Donut Day is a day of indulgence, with many donut stores offering free donuts to their customers. Krispy Kreme, Dunkin', and Shipley Do-Nuts are just a few of the popular chains participating in the celebration. To commemorate this sweet holiday, many businesses offer special deals and discounts on donuts. For example, Casey's Rewards loyalty program members can get a free donut, while Dutch Bros Coffee is offering a free glazed donut with any purchase. But National Donut Day is not just about indulging in sugary treats; it's also a day to learn about the history and significance of donuts. Did you know that donuts have been around since the Dutch introduced "olykoek" – or oily cake – to the world? The first Dutch donuts didn't have a hole, but they were fried in hot oil and made with sweet dough.Spelling it Out: Donut vs. Doughnut
Over the years, the debate over the correct spelling of "National Donut Day" has sparked controversy. While some argue that the correct spelling is "doughnut," others insist that "donut" is the way to go. According to dictionaries, both spellings are acceptable. However, the Salvation Army, which started the tradition, still spells it "National Donut Day" in honor of the organization's "Donut Lassies."Free Donuts Galore: Where to Get Your Free Treats on National Donut Day
Whether you're in the United States, Canada, Australia, or the UK, there's no shortage of places to indulge in free donuts on National Donut Day. America's largest donut chain, Dunkin', is offering a free classic donut with the purchase of any drink, while Krispy Kreme is offering a free donut with no purchase necessary. Duck Donuts and Sheetz are also participating in the celebration, offering free donuts to their customers. So mark your calendars for the first Friday in June and get ready to sink your teeth into the sweet history of National Donut Day.#Food #Entertainment