Free doughnuts? Say less! Krispy Kreme’s annual ‘Day of the Dozens’ offers a simple holiday delight: buy any dozen doughnuts, and they’ll hand you another Original Glazed® dozen for free. It’s proof that nothing spreads holiday cheer like a sweet deal—and the universal love of something free.
The sight of a warm, golden dozen doughnuts stacked neatly in a Krispy Kreme box is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Now imagine carrying two boxes out the door—one for yourself and another to share, all while the sweet smell of freshly baked doughnuts fills the air.
This Thursday, Krispy Kreme doubles down on holiday giving with its BOGO Day of the Dozens offer, reminding us why free treats are the ultimate seasonal indulgence.
BOGO: The Magic of Getting Something Extra
There’s something irresistible about getting a little more than you expected—especially when the extra is free. Krispy Kreme’s deal isn’t just a clever holiday promotion; it’s a carefully crafted invitation to share the season’s sweetness. For many, the free dozen isn’t just a bonus; it’s an opportunity to bring smiles to coworkers, friends, or family.
The psychology behind BOGO offers runs deep. According to a study published in the Journal of Business Research, free deals make us feel rewarded and valued, turning simple purchases into memorable experiences. Krispy Kreme captures this spirit perfectly, using the season’s themes of abundance and sharing to make their offer feel extra special.
Why Free Food Feels So Good
There’s something universally delightful about free food, and Krispy Kreme’s Day of the Dozens is a masterclass in leveraging that joy. But why do freebies feel so special? It all boils down to psychology.
One key factor is the Zero Price Effect, which suggests that we respond to the cost of “free” differently than we do to any other price. Research by Shampanier, Mazar, and Ariely (2007) found that the allure of “zero” creates an emotional response that often overrides rational decision-making. Demand skyrockets when something is free, even if it’s only marginally more valuable than a paid alternative. This emotional appeal is especially strong for indulgent products like Krispy Kreme’s doughnuts—pleasure-driven, “hedonic” treats that feel extra rewarding when there’s no price attached.
Loss aversion, a principle developed by Kahneman and Tversky, adds to this effect. People are naturally wired to avoid losses more than they seek equivalent gains.
The thrill of getting something for free, like a dozen doughnuts, easily overshadows the lure of a discount. And then there’s reciprocity—the unspoken rule that makes us want to give back when we’ve been given something. When Krispy Kreme hands you a free dozen, it’s hard not to want to pay it forward, whether by picking up another dozen for a friend, sharing your free stash, or simply telling everyone about the deal.
But freebies don’t just feel good—they simplify decisions. The absence of a price tag eliminates the mental effort of weighing costs against benefits, leading to impulsive, emotion-driven choices. That’s why offers like Krispy Kreme’s succeed: they make us feel good, reduce friction in decision-making, and invite us to indulge in the moment.
How to Get Your Dozen
Mark your calendar for December 12—Krispy Kreme’s Day of the Dozens is back to sweeten the holiday season. Participating Krispy Kreme locations across the U.S. will offer this deal exclusively for in-shop and drive-thru orders. Here’s how it works: purchase any dozen of your choice at regular price, and you’ll receive a free dozen Original Glazed® doughnuts.
The offer is limited to two free dozens per guest, making sharing the joy with friends, family, or coworkers easy. Whether you’re picking up a box for the office holiday party or surprising a loved one, this promotion is a delicious way to spread holiday cheer. Be sure to check your local Krispy Kreme shop for hours and availability, and remember—the deal is only available for one day, so don’t miss out!
The Spirit of Sharing
This Thursday, treat yourself to a dozen and pass the extra to someone you love (or maybe someone who needs a little cheer). The Day of the Dozens isn’t just about free doughnuts—in a season filled with the hustle and bustle, a warm, sugary treat can remind us what the holidays are about connection, generosity, and the small pleasures that make the season shine.
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