National Doughnut Day falls on the first Friday of June each year, and while it might seem like a rather arbitrary holiday, the event was started all the way back in 1938 by The Salvation Army as a sweet way to honour the men and women who served doughnuts to soldiers during the First World War.

Keeping the tradition alive, a number of independent doughnut shops in Toronto plan to recognize the day with in-store promotions on Friday, June 6th. Some will nod to the historical significance of the event, while others just plan to celebrate the simple beuaty of fried dough.

Here are 5 spots to celebrate National Doughnut Day in Toronto.

• Glory Hole Doughnuts in Parkdale will commemorate the 76th year of National Doughnut Day, by giving away 76 of its mini doughnuts plus free swag from 10am on.
• Jelly Modern Doughnuts will collect money for the Salvation Army at all locations, while offering free Sally Ann-coloured doughnuts.
• Von Doughnuts is offering a free Von Kebob -- a skewer of mini Madagascar vanilla or French toast-glazed doughnuts -- with purchase of any 6 doughnuts and a drip coffee.
• Tori's Bakeshop is going to be well-stocked with fresh made doughnut cupcakes ($3.50) and regular doughnuts ($2.50) in flavours like pink vanilla and chocolate cherry.
• The Steady is promoting a classic cinnamon sugar donut that's both vegan and gluten free, as well introducing a yeast doughnut in a fun new flavour. Have a doughnut with the house-made cold brew for $5, or on its own for $3.

Photo of Glory Hole Donuts