Observed on the first Friday of June annually, National Donut Day (or National Doughnut Day) is celebrated not only in the United States but also in several other countries. This day traces its roots back to a doughnut-centric event initiated by The Salvation Army in Chicago in 1938. Originally, it was established to pay tribute to their members who provided doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. National Donut Day is a festive occasion dedicated to celebrating the beloved doughnut, and many doughnut shops across America mark the day by offering complimentary doughnuts to patrons.

History of National Doughnut Day

The origins of National Doughnut Day date back to 1938 in Chicago. It was created by The Salvation Army to honor the women who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. These women were known as "Doughnut Lassies" or "Doughnut Girls", and they helped bring a sense of comfort and home to the front lines by providing the soldiers with doughnuts and coffee.

The day was also intended as a fundraiser for the Salvation Army to support those in need, especially during the Great Depression. It remains a reminder of the Salvation Army’s efforts to improve the lives of the poor and those affected by war.

The Role of Doughnut Lassies

During World War I, in 1917, the Salvation Army sent volunteers to the front lines of Europe to provide supplies and emotional support to soldiers. Among their services, the Lassies made doughnuts using minimal resources in makeshift kitchens. They fried doughnuts in helmets and served them to soldiers, giving them a taste of home amidst the horrors of war. This simple act became symbolic of the compassion and care the Salvation Army offered to troops, and the doughnut became a beloved snack associated with comfort.

Doughnut Varieties and Popularity

Doughnuts have evolved significantly since their humble beginnings. Today, they are a staple in American bakeries, coffee shops, and supermarkets, available in numerous varieties:

• Glazed Doughnuts: One of the most popular varieties, these are simple yeast doughnuts dipped in a sweet glaze.
• Chocolate Doughnuts: Covered in chocolate glaze or icing, these are a favorite for chocolate lovers.
• Filled Doughnuts: These doughnuts have a filling, such as jelly, cream, or custard, inside.
• Cake Doughnuts: Denser than yeast doughnuts, these are made from cake batter and often topped with sugar, cinnamon, or icing.
• Old-Fashioned Doughnuts: With a more rustic look, these doughnuts have a crunchy exterior and soft, cake-like interior.

In the U.S., doughnuts are extremely popular and can be found in various flavors, sizes, and styles. Iconic doughnut chains like Krispy Kreme, Dunkin' Donuts, and countless local bakeries offer a wide selection of doughnuts year-round.

How to Celebrate National Doughnut Day

There are many ways to celebrate National Doughnut Day:

1. Enjoy Free Doughnuts: Many doughnut shops and national chains offer free doughnuts or special deals on this day. Check out places like Krispy Kreme and Dunkin’ Donuts for promotions.

2. Visit a Local Bakery: Support a local bakery by buying fresh doughnuts made in your community.

3. Try a New Flavor: Step outside your comfort zone and try a doughnut flavor or type you’ve never had before, such as maple bacon, matcha, or filled doughnuts with unique fillings like Nutella or lemon curd.

4. Make Homemade Doughnuts: For a fun activity, make your own doughnuts at home. Recipes are widely available, whether you prefer a baked or fried version.

5. Donate to Charity: In the spirit of the original intent of National Doughnut Day, consider donating to the Salvation Army or other organizations that help those in need.

6. Host a Doughnut Party: Gather friends, family, or coworkers and celebrate with a doughnut feast! Set up a variety of doughnuts and toppings for a fun, build-your-own doughnut bar.

7. Share on Social Media: Post pictures of your doughnut celebration and use hashtags like #NationalDoughnutDay to join in on the fun with others across the country.

Fun Facts About Doughnuts

• Doughnut Consumption: Americans consume more than 10 billion doughnuts annually, making it a significant part of the nation’s diet and culture.

• Largest Doughnut: The largest doughnut ever made was a jelly-filled doughnut weighing approximately 1.7 tons.

• Doughnut Day Twice a Year?: While National Doughnut Day in June is the official and historical celebration, there is also an unofficial National Doughnut Day celebrated on November 5.

• Doughnut vs. Donut: Both spellings are accepted in the U.S., though “donut” became popular thanks to brands like Dunkin’ Donuts. "Doughnut" is the more traditional spelling.

Doughnuts in Pop Culture

Doughnuts have long been a part of American culture, featuring in television shows, movies, and even music. They are associated with law enforcement due to the longstanding stereotype of police officers frequently eating doughnuts. TV characters such as Homer Simpson from The Simpsons have made doughnuts a central part of their identity. Homer’s favorite treat, the pink frosted doughnut with sprinkles, is now an iconic symbol of the show.

Conclusion

National Doughnut Day is more than just a celebration of a delicious treat—it is a day with historical significance rooted in compassion and service. It honors the Salvation Army’s Doughnut Lassies, who brought comfort to soldiers during World War I. Today, this fun-filled holiday is a great excuse to indulge in doughnuts of all kinds while also remembering the origins of this sweet tradition.

Whether you enjoy a classic glazed doughnut, something more extravagant like a cronut, or try making your own, National Doughnut Day is the perfect time to treat yourself!