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.

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.

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.

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.

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