If there’s a commonly munched-on food that deserves its own special day, the bagel certainly qualifies. And that day of celebration, National Bagel Day, is today, January 15. Let’s give the doughy circular delicacy its due.
The bagel originated in 13th century in what is now Poland, according to National Geographic, which credits the history to Maria Balinska, author of “The Bagel: The Surprising History of a Modest Bread.” Jewish bakers made larger ring-shaped boiled breads, then transitioned to a smaller single serving bread known as the “bajgiel” in Polish and “beygal” in Yiddish.
Bagels came to the U.S. as a food with European Jews who began immigrating in the 19th century. By the mid-60s, bagels were the “fastest-drawing bun in the yeast,” the New York Daily News reported in 1965, National Geographic says.
But enough about the background of the bagel. Here’s where to get some deals on one to munch yourself. Make sure to check your local bagel spots’ social media accounts for promotions, too.
Einstein Bros. Bagels
Einstein Bros. Bagels actually has a National Bagel Day deal that lasts all month long. Those who join the chain’s Shmear Society Rewards loyalty program in January will get a free bagel and cream cheese with any purchase. To sign up, go to the Einstein Bros. Bagels website. Members also accrue points towards free food, Unlimited Free Coffee whenever ordering in the app or online and a Free Egg Sandwich birthday reward.
Manhattan Bagel
Manhattan Bagel, the restaurant chain – with about 70 locations in Delaware, Florida, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Virginia – has deal similar to Einstein’s. If you sign up for Manhattan Bagel’s eClub loyalty program by Monday you can get a special offer: a free bagel and cream cheese.
Bigby Coffee
Biggby Coffee is offering customers 50% off any bagel and cream cheese with a purchase of a 24-ounce specialty beverage purchase. The company, based in East Lansing, Michigan, has more than 360 locations in states including Tennessee, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, North Carolina, South Carolina, Wisconsin, Kentucky, Idaho, Georgia and Florida.
Bagel Boss
In addition to free nationwide shipping, Bagel Boss is offering TODAY.com readers 10% off between Jan. 15 and 18 using the code TDY10. You can also enter for the chance to win one dozen bagels a month for a year by following @BagelBoss on Instagram or Facebook and commenting on the chain’s National Bagel Day post.
Bruegger’s
When you join Bruegger’s rewards program, you’ll earn a free bagel and cream cheese. The offer is only valid for 14 days when you make a purchase.
Goldbergs Fine Foods
Goldbergs is treating customers to a free bagel and cream cheese with any purchase on National Bagel Day.
H&H
Craving some H&H Bagels? In honor of National Bagel Day, customers can get 10% off nationwide shipping orders using the code BAGELDAY24 between Jan. 12 and 15.
New Yorker Bagels
You don’t have to travel to New York to get an authentic New York bagel. New Yorker Bagels customers can get free two-day shipping on the company’s website to celebrate National Bagel Day.
Noah’s NY Bagels
This bagel shop with 55 locations in California is giving customers a free bagel and schmear when they sign up for the company’s rewards program.
Panera
Panera customers who sign up for the company’s rewards program score a free pastry, bagel or sweet. The offer is valid for 60 days with any purchase at participating locations. It has a maximum value of $4.59 and isn’t valid with other offers.
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