Hungry? Don’t miss these National Drive‑Thru Day 2025 freebies and deals!

Buckle up, friends—National Drive-Thru Day is rolling around again on Thursday, July 24, 2025, and it’s time to celebrate one of America’s most beloved culinary traditions: the drive-thru!

Whether you’re a fast-food aficionado, a coffee-on-the-go devotee, or just someone who loves a good deal, this is your day to shine.

If you're planning to take advantage of it, timing and preparation will make all the difference.


Before we get to the deals, let’s take a moment to appreciate the humble drive-thru. Did you know the very first drive-thru is believed to have been Red’s Giant Hamburg on Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri, way back in 1947?

Not long after, In-N-Out Burger fired up its own drive-thru in California, and Jack in the Box joined the party in 1951. (Fun fact: Jack in the Box is also credited with dreaming up National Drive-Thru Day itself!)

But it was McDonald’s, that all-American icon, that really put the pedal to the metal. In 1975, they opened their first take-out window in Arizona, and the rest is history.

Today, there are more than 8,100 drive-thru restaurants across the U.S.—and that number is expected to cruise past 9,000 by 2026.


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The drive-thru isn’t just a trend; it’s a way of life. Image source: Mahavir Shah / Unsplash


Even as delivery apps and curbside pickup have become the norm, the drive-thru remains the fastest, most reliable way to grab a bite.

It’s convenient, it’s efficient, and let’s be honest—there’s something a little bit magical about rolling down your window and having a hot meal handed right to you.

As Apurva Agarwal, a senior analyst at Polaris Market Research, puts it, “Drive-thru culture isn’t just a trend – it’s core to how Americans eat.”

Ready to hit the road? Here’s where you can find the tastiest freebies and discounts this National Drive-Thru Day. (Pro tip: Always check your local restaurant’s social media or website for the latest updates—some deals are location-specific!)


Also read: Drive-Thru Grocery Store, 1949

1. Chick-fil-A​



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Check with your neighborhood Chick-fil-A to see what’s cooking! Image source: Zoshua Colah / Unsplash


While there’s no nationwide deal, many Chick-fil-A locations are getting in on the fun with their own local offers. For example, the Stockyards location in Fort Worth, Texas, is giving away Chick-fil-A swag and free food items for your next visit.

2. Del Taco​



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Members of the Del Yeah!, rejoice! Image source: Bloomberg / Getty Images


Rewards program members can enjoy 20% off any purchase from July 24–30. Just register for Rewards, save and select the offer in the app or at deltaco.com, and apply it at checkout. Prefer to order in person? No problem—just have your QR code scanned at the register.

3. Dunkin’​



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Breakfast and a beverage for less than a fancy latte! Image source: Joan Oger / Unsplash


Dunkin’ Rewards members can cool off with medium Refreshers for just $3 (through August 19). Plus, there’s a $5 Meal Deal featuring two Wake-Up Wrap Sandwiches and a medium hot or iced coffee.

4. Fazoli’s​



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Craving pasta at Fazoli's? Image source: Tripadvisor


Buy one, get one free Spaghetti with Marinara or Meat Sauce at participating Fazoli’s locations using code BOGO25. This offer runs from July 24 through July 29, so you’ve got a few days to double up on carbs.


Also read: This clever McDonald’s drive-thru tip makes eating in the car so much easier

5. Greenlane​



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A refreshing treat for those hot summer days! Image source: Greenlane / Instagram


If you’re in the Tampa area, Greenlane is offering a free lemonade with the purchase of any made-to-order salad or wrap on July 24.

6. Krispy Kreme​



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Hot, fresh, and free at Krispy Kreme! Image source: Clayton Malquist / Unsplash


Swing by the drive-thru on July 24 and score a free Original Glazed doughnut—no purchase necessary! (One per person, at participating shops.) You might even get a taste of their new Hungry for Heroes superhero-themed doughnuts.

7. Scooter’s Coffee​



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Scoot on over this July 24! Image source: AOL


Get $2 off any size hot, iced, or blended Caramelicious drink all day on July 24 when you order through the Scooter’s Coffee mobile app. Plus, with any purchase, you’ll receive a limited-edition Scoot On Around sticker (while supplies last).

Read next: Cool down this summer with 7 tasty restaurant deals you won’t want to miss

Key Takeaways

  • National Drive-Thru Day is celebrated on Thursday, 24 July, recognizing the history and popularity of drive-through food culture, with over 8,100 locations across the US and growing.
  • Major fast-food chains are offering special deals and freebies for the day, including free doughnuts at Krispy Kreme and discounts or offers at Del Taco, Dunkin', and Fazoli's, among others.
  • Many chains require customers to be part of their loyalty programs or use an app to access these deals, so it's a good idea to check terms and conditions before heading out.
  • It's also worth checking the social media or websites of your favorite local drive-thru restaurants for extra deals, as some locations might have their own unique specials for National Drive-Thru Day.
What’s your favorite drive-thru treat? Are you planning to take advantage of any of these deals? Do you have tips for making the most of drive-thru dining?
 

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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.

The GrayVine

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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