In honor of World Kindness Day, Krispy Kreme invites 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 worldwide to perform acts of kindness that transcend boundaries and create a sense of shared humanity. The World Kindness Movement emphasizes the significance of the day, noting that it “provides a special day to celebrate kindness through various activities and events.” This observance encourages individuals to participate in acts that promote kindness, from sharing positive messages on social media to participating in community service.

Krispy Kreme’s holiday promotion

In keeping with the spirit of World Kindness Day, Krispy Kreme will give the first 500 guests at each participating U.S. store a free dozen Original Glazed® donuts on November 13. This includes both in-shop and drive-thru visitors, with no purchase necessary.

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

Why kindness matters

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 on kindness to someone else – plays a central role in why brands like Krispy Kreme choose to celebrate days like World Kindness Day with free giveaways.

In a 2014 study titled The social contagion of generositypublished in the magazine PLOS ONEresearchers discovered that kindness can cause a “ripple effect.” This means that individuals who receive an act of kindness are likely to not only feel uplifted, but also be inspired to perform prosocial acts toward others rather than just giving back to 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 does Krispy Kreme give away so many free donuts?

Krispy Kreme’s free donut days, such as World Kindness Day and National Donut Day, align with the ‘Be Sweet’ Responsibility Report, which emphasizes community involvement and promoting kindness. These initiatives are part of the company’s broader strategy to build strong community connections and encourage generosity. These giveaways invite customers to participate in community-focused celebrations, encouraging kindness and positioning Krispy Kreme as a brand that values ​​connection and goodwill.

For Krispy Kreme, the goal is not just to provide a treat, but 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 flow outward, creating a culture where simple actions lead to greater, positive social outcomes.

This approach not only increases brand loyalty, but also reinforces Krispy Kreme’s commitment to being a community-oriented entity that values ​​connection and generosity.

How to get your free donuts

Just be one of the first 500 people to visit a participating Krispy Kreme store on November 13th. Check your nearest store for specific hours and go to the store or drive-thru to receive a free dozen Original Glazed donuts – no purchase necessary. It’s a simple way to enjoy and share a dozen with those around you.

As World Kindness Day shows, the most beautiful moments are often the smallest. Through a simple donut, Krispy Kreme shows how kindness can bring us closer together, reminding us of the power of thoughtful gestures shared with others – a commitment to community and connection that is at the heart of Krispy Kreme.