On Friday, June 2 we celebrate National Donut Day! Curious where the breakfast treat originated? According to the Smithsonian, it seems donuts have been around so long it’s hard to place exactly how it got started.
In the 19th Century, Elizabeth Gregory, a ship Captain’s mother was credited with creating the pastry using cinnamon and nutmeg, but originally the donut didn’t have a hole in the middle. Gregory’s son, Hanson has been noted for making the donut as we know it today.
The first donut machine appeared in 1920 in New York City, when Adolph Levitt, a refugee from czarist Russia, began selling fried doughnuts from his bakery.
In 1937, Krispy Kreme was formed in North Carolina which spread throughout the South. Today, there are as many donut stores as there are a variety of donuts.  We just can’t seem to get enough of the sweet golden rings of goodness.
Take a look at the freebies and deals you can find on donuts and we’ve included a few local favorites.
4930 Thoroughbred Lane, Brentwood 37027
9100 Carothers Parkway, Franklin 37067
2098 Wall Street, Spring Hill 37174
Come in & get a FREE classic donut with the purchase of any beverage!
2. Krispy Kreme
1733 Mallory Lane, Brentwood 37027
One free donut at Krispy Kreme on Friday. No purchase necessary.
3. Five Daughters Bakery
230 Franklin Road, Franklin 37064
The first 50 guests will receive donut coupons for your next visit to Five Daughters Bakery.
4. Ellie’s Old Fashioned Doughnuts
230 Franklin Road, Franklin 37064
This local food truck is a fan favorite among the locals. While you can’t visit them on National Donut Day you can grab one of those fresh hot doughnuts at the Farmer’s Market on Saturday.
5. Couch Potato Donuts
7248 Nolensville Road, Nolensville 37135
Based out of Nolensville, this donut is made from potatoes. On their website, it states “if a traditional yeast donut and a cake donut had a baby, it would be a potato donut.” You can find these at the Nolensville Farmer’s Market on Saturday morning from 8 a – noon. These donuts are gluten-free and dairy free, however, some of the toppings may contain gluten or dairy. Has anyone tried one of these yet?