Don’t miss your chance to score something extra while watching the big games this summer

Some offers come and go—but every so often, one comes along that rewards quick reflexes and good timing.

A familiar name in the fast-casual world is bringing back a limited-time promotion tied to a major sports event.

And if you're someone who enjoys watching from the comfort of your couch, there may be an easy opportunity to enjoy a free meal, too.

Here’s how the action on the court could lead to something extra on your plate.



During select games in this year's championship series, fans watching live can participate in a giveaway with just a quick message. Each time a coach issues a challenge to a referee’s call, an official post is shared online. Within that post, a secret keyword is hidden.

The first 5,000 people who find the keyword and text it to 888222 will receive a free entrée. The offer applies to a variety of options, including a burrito, bowl, salad, or tacos. The company behind the promotion confirmed this with a release.

“Having the game come to a halt and watching referees review a play over-and-over again is rarely enjoyable,” said the President and Chief Brand Officer.

“We want fans to have fun throughout the game, so we are offering a chance to score free Chipotle during Coach’s Challenge reviews.”

The campaign is officially named Chipotle Instant Freeplays.


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Chipotle is bringing back a limited-time promotion tied to a major sports event. Image Source: Forbes / YouTube


This promotion is only available during select matchups in the 2025 championship. Those hoping to participate will need to watch in real time to qualify.

Here are the official broadcast dates and times (Eastern Time) for this year’s series:
  • Game 1: Thursday, June 5 at 8:30 PM
  • Game 2: Sunday, June 8 at 8:00 PM
  • Game 3: Wednesday, June 11 at 8:30 PM
  • Game 4: Friday, June 13 at 8:30 PM
  • Game 5 (if necessary): Monday, June 16 at 8:30 PM
  • Game 6 (if necessary): Thursday, June 19 at 8:30 PM
  • Game 7 (if necessary): Sunday, June 22 at 8:00 PM


Also read: Chipotle just launched a $1 million burrito giveaway—here’s how you could win

That’s not the only promotion being offered this summer.

Another initiative—this one lasting three months—is giving fans even more ways to earn free meals. The company announced it will be giving away over $1 million worth of free food between June 1 and August 31.

The program is open to rewards members who opt into a seasonal campaign called Summer of Extras. To participate, customers must log into their account and activate the special promotion.

From there, each month offers a fresh set of goals. Members can earn points, badges, and sweepstakes entries by hitting up to four purchasing milestones.

Each milestone corresponds with entrée purchases.

Here’s a breakdown of what fans can earn:
  • Milestone One: Buy 1 entrée, receive 50 bonus points, 5 sweepstakes entries, and 1 badge.
  • Milestone Two: Buy 2 more entrées, receive 100 bonus points, 10 entries, and 1 badge.
  • Milestone Three: Buy 2 more entrées, receive 200 bonus points, 15 entries, and 1 badge.
  • Milestone Four: Buy 2 more entrées, receive 300 bonus points, 30 entries, and 1 badge.
These goals reset monthly, allowing participants to earn additional rewards through the end of August. There’s also an extra prize incentive.

Those who complete all four milestones can be entered to win a year of free burritos or a limited-edition stainless steel gift card.



Also read: This weird name change trick could get you extra food at Chipotle—Here’s how fans are doing it!

The company confirmed these offers in a recent news release. It said the purpose is to keep fans engaged and reward consistent purchases.

And the best part? These giveaways don’t require any complex tech or app skills.

Whether you're cheering from the sidelines or simply looking for an excuse to treat yourself this summer, these offers might be worth a look. You don’t need to be a basketball expert to win—just fast fingers, a sharp eye, and a good appetite.

Read next: Chipotle is giving away free burritos for a year—here’s how you could win
Key Takeaways

  • Fans can win a free entrée during the 2025 NBA Finals by texting a hidden keyword to 888222 during a coach’s challenge.
  • The first 5,000 fans to text the correct keyword will receive a burrito, bowl, salad, or taco free of charge.
  • Another promotion called Summer of Extras runs from June 1 to August 31 and gives away over $1 million in food.
  • Rewards members can unlock bonus points, sweepstakes entries, and special badges by hitting monthly purchase milestones.
Have you ever won a free meal from a promo like this? Do you plan to tune in and try for the entrée giveaway this year? And do you already participate in reward programs like this one? Let us know your tips, experiences, or go-to orders in the comments below!
 

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News, deals, games, and bargains for Americans over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, The GrayVine is all about helping you make your money go further.

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The GrayVine searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for over 60's. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, we're all about helping you make your money go further.
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