Every year on the first Friday of June, Americans celebrate National Donut Day, a holiday dedicated to one of the nation’s favorite sweet treats. While many people enjoy the day by picking up a free donut or visiting their favorite bakery, the holiday has a deeper history than most realize.
National Donut Day was established in 1938 by the Chicago branch of The Salvation Army. The day was created to honor the “Donut Lassies,” women volunteers who served donuts and other refreshments to American soldiers during World War I. These volunteers traveled to military camps in France, providing comfort and a taste of home to troops serving overseas. Their efforts boosted morale and made the simple donut a symbol of support and appreciation.
The donut itself has an interesting history. Fried dough pastries have existed in many cultures for centuries, but the modern donut is often linked to Dutch settlers who brought “olykoeks,” or “oil cakes,” to America in the 1800s. These early pastries were fried in oil and sometimes filled with fruit or nuts. Over time, the recipe evolved into the ring-shaped donut we know today. Legend says that a sailor named Hanson Gregory punched a hole in the center of the dough in 1847 to help it cook more evenly.
Today, donuts come in countless varieties, from classic glazed and chocolate frosted to creative flavors topped with cereal, bacon, or candy. Whether enjoyed with a morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, donuts remain a beloved part of American culture.
