Free Donuts Friday

You would think the organizers behind National Donut Day would know how to spell "doughnut."

But proper spelling is not part of this sugary celebration Friday of the fried dough ring, glazed or chocolate, stuffed with pudding or topped with whipped meringue.

In honor of the big day, donut shops across the nation — will hand out free doughnuts to customers.

Dunkin' Donuts is on board with the holiday. For a free doughnut, you'll need to purchase a beverage (hot or cold), according to the "Behind the Beans" blog.

In Bradenton, there is a at 7305 53rd Ave. East, and a second at 812 62nd St. Cir. East.

Dunkin' D's will hand out one free doughnut of your choice "while supplies last." Do you have a favorite doughnut? Take our poll below. (Boston Kreme is a fave of this former New Englander.)

Independent shops include , 4616 14th St. W.; , 902 MLK Jr. W., and Gold Star Donuts. , at 5920 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., sells .

The national day itself, always celebrated on the first Friday of June each year, was established in 1938 by the Chicago Salvation Army to honor women who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I.

The Salvation Army this year is teaming up with baking company Entenmann's to help celebrate National Donut Day; Entenmann's will donate proceeds from sales and offer customers a chance to win free donuts for a year, by entering a contest on its Facebook page. Entenmann's donuts can be found at area grocery stores.

Follow more National Donut Day doings on Twitter at: #DoughnutDay or #DonutDay. You can also visit donutdayusa.com.