Frank Rondel
National Bagel Day will be observed on Thursday, January 15, honoring the iconic bread that dates back to the 13th century and arrived in the United States during the 19th century. The term “bagel” derives from the Polish word “bajgiel” and the Yiddish “beygal,” both referring to the classic ring-shaped bread, according to National Geographic, reports customreceipt.com with reference to the National Geographic. This celebration highlights not only the bagel’s long history but also its place in American culinary culture.
A recent survey conducted in December 2025 for Einstein Bros. Bagels’ 2026 State of the Bagel Report, which polled 1,000 participants, identified the most popular bagel flavors nationwide. Plain bagels ranked first, followed by Asiago, everything, six-cheese, and cheddar jalapeño. When it comes to spreads, plain cream cheese topped the list, followed by garden veggie, honey almond, and jalapeño salsa.
Several major chains and local bakeries are offering promotions to mark the day. Einstein Bros. Bagels is providing a free Bagel & Shmear with any purchase on January 15 for customers who mention “National Bagel Day” in stores. Bruegger’s Bagels is extending a similar offer to members of Bruegger’s Rewards, while new members can also access the promotion by registering online. H&H Bagels loyalty program members can claim a free bagel and spread sandwich through their app or in-store. Manhattan Bagel is also offering a complimentary bagel with cream cheese alongside any purchase.
Panera Bread will feature a buy-one-get-one-free deal on Asiago Bagel Stacks using the code BOGOSTACK on January 15. Panera recently launched three new breakfast Asiago Bagel Stacks, including the Wake-Up BLT Asiago Everything Bagel Stack with bacon, scrambled eggs, tomatoes, arugula, salt, pepper, and cheesy benedict sauce. The chain also introduced a breakfast-inspired Jenga-style game priced at $7.99.
Additional National Bagel Day offers include Biggby Coffee, where customers can purchase a bagel and cream cheese for $1 with the purchase of a 20-ounce or 24-ounce specialty beverage. Sheetz app users can access $2 off any breakfast sandwich from January 15 to January 19. Spread Bagelry will provide free bagels with cream cheese to the first 50 customers at each store. Stop & Shop customers can receive a free bagel by checking in via their GO Rewards account, and Western Bagel in Los Angeles is promoting a $15 baker’s dozen special.
These promotions are available for a limited time, and customers are encouraged to confirm details with their local outlets to ensure participation.
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