National Doughnut Day, observed every year on June 1, was started in 1938 by the Salvation Army in Chicago as a way to raise funds and recognize the contribution of dough lassies (or dough girls) during World War I. Dough lassies were women who volunteered for the organization by making doughnuts for soldiers stationed abroad as a morale booster.

Since then, the holiday has become an avenue for restaurant operators to celebrate doughnuts with freebies and creative promotions. See the National Doughnut Day deals. 

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