Here’s how to get free Krispy Kreme donuts on World Kindness Day

In honor of World Kindness Day, Krispy Kreme is inviting customers to spread joy with a free dozen Original Glazed Donuts, proving that even small treats can spark meaningful acts of kindness.

What is World Kindness Day?

Launched in 1998, World Kindness Day calls on people around the world to perform acts of kindness across borders and create a sense of shared humanity. The World Kindness Movement emphasizes the importance of the day, noting that it “provides a special day to celebrate kindness through various activities and events.” This holiday encourages individuals to engage in acts that promote kindness, from sharing positive messages on social media to participating in community service.

Krispy Kreme’s holiday promotion

In the spirit of World Kindness Day, Krispy Kreme is giving a free dozen Original Glazed® Donuts to the first 500 guests at any participating U.S. store on November 13th. This applies to both in-store and drive-thru visitors, with no purchase necessary.

“World Kindness Day is a reminder that we can all have a positive impact on people’s lives, even through small gestures like sharing a sweet treat. We hope that every dozen Original Glazed Donuts we give away enable and inspire dozens of small acts of kindness,” said Dave Skena, Krispy Kreme Global Chief Brand Officer.

Why kindness is important

The simple act of giving away donuts may seem small, but the impact of kindness often extends far beyond the initial gesture. The concept of “upstream reciprocity” – the idea that kindness can inspire others to pass kindness on to someone else – plays a central role in why brands like Krispy Kreme celebrate days like World Kindness Day with free giveaways.

In a 2014 study titled The social contagion of generositypublished in the magazine PLUS ONEResearchers found that kindness can create a “ripple effect.” This means that individuals who receive a kind gesture are not only likely to feel uplifted, but also inspired to perform prosocial acts toward others rather than just reciprocating the original giver. This effect can create a broader chain of goodwill, where a single small gesture triggers multiple acts of kindness within a community.

Why is Krispy Kreme giving away so many free donuts?

Krispy Kreme’s Free Donut Days – such as World Kindness Day and National Donut Day – align with its “Be Sweet” stewardship report, which emphasizes community engagement and promoting kindness. These initiatives are part of the company’s broader strategy to build strong community connections and encourage acts of generosity. These giveaways invite customers to community-focused celebrations, promote kindness, and make Krispy Kreme a brand that values ​​connection and goodwill.

For Krispy Kreme, the goal is not only to bring joy, but also to inspire a chain of goodwill. Giving away free donuts serves as a catalyst for small, thoughtful gestures that people can share with family, friends, or even strangers. This approach reflects a deeper understanding of how kindness can ripple outward, creating a culture where simple actions lead to larger, positive social outcomes.

This approach not only strengthens brand loyalty, but also underscores Krispy Kreme’s commitment to being a community-focused company that values ​​connection and generosity.

Here’s how to get your free donuts

Just be one of the first 500 people at any participating Krispy Kreme store on November 13th. Check with your nearest store for exact hours and head to the store or drive-thru to score a free dozen Original Glazed Donuts – no purchase necessary. It’s an easy way to enjoy a dozen of them and share them with those around you.

As World Kindness Day shows, the best moments are often the smallest. Through a simple donut, Krispy Kreme shows how kindness can bring us closer together and reminds us of the power that lies in thoughtful gestures we share with others – a commitment to community and connection that is at Krispy Kreme’s core.