In the United States, on what date is National Doughnut Day traditionally observed?

National Doughnut Day in the United States is traditionally observed on the first Friday in June.

The day was created in 1938 by The Salvation Army to honor its “Doughnut Lassies,” volunteers who served doughnuts and coffee to soldiers during World War I. The observance also served as a fundraising event during the Great Depression.

The Salvation Army’s wartime volunteers often prepared doughnuts in difficult field conditions. The treats became associated with comfort and home for American troops, helping turn the doughnut into a powerful symbol of wartime support.

National Doughnut Day is sometimes confused with other food holidays or with World Doughnut Day, but the established U.S. observance is held on the first Friday of June. Shops often mark it with promotions, free doughnuts, or special flavors.