Krispy Kreme is giving away free donuts today for Fat Tuesday 2026. There’s just one tiny catch

This should come as a shock to very few people, but Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, which typically needs very little reason to give away its donuts, is giving away free donuts today.

This time, the free donut giveaway is in honor of Fat Tuesday 2026. But there’s a catch. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Fat Tuesday?

Today (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) is Fat Tuesday, otherwise known as Mardi Gras. The holiday always falls on the final Tuesday before the Christian holy day of Ash Wednesday, which is the beginning of the Lent observance period.

Traditionally, Christians refrain from eating certain foods during Lent, particularly rich and fatty ones.

As a result, the Tuesday before the Lenten fasting period began has historically been a day when followers binged on sweet and fatty foods—their last chance to do so for over a month. This Tuesday thus became known as Fat Tuesday.

Why is Krispy Kreme giving away donuts on Fat Tuesday?

The ubiquitous donut chain never seems to miss an opportunity to give away free donuts.

While this practice may appear anathema to a profitable business model, Krispy Kreme knows that giving away a few donuts will likely spur customers to spend more in-store than the chain is losing by giving away carefully formulated dough that costs it just a few cents each.

After all, who can just eat one glazed donut or not want to wash it down with a cup of (high-margin) coffee?

What is Krispy Kreme giving away on Fat Tuesday 2026?

Participating Krispy Kreme Doughnuts locations will be giving away a free original glazed donut to those who go to their shops today.

However, there’s a catch.

How can I get my free donut on Fat Tuesday?

In order to get the free donut, you’ll need to wear beads, the traditional accessory that people adorn themselves with during Mardi Gras celebrations.

As Krispy Kreme notes on its website, “Bring your celebration spirit, and your shiniest beads, to a Krispy Kreme shop near you for a FREE Original Glazed doughnut per guest.”

The offer is available to those who physically enter a participating Krispy Kreme store or use its drive-thru. Unfortunately, the offer isn’t available for online orders. A disclaimer on Krispy Kreme’s website also notes that the offer is valid only for today and “while supplies last.”