Next year, summer officially begins on June 21, and restaurants will likely offer deals to celebrate. From discounted ice cream to BOGO shakes and summer-themed sandwiches, here are the best first day of summer deals we expect to see in 2026.
Look for deals like FREE ice cream at Friendly's, FREE Do-Nuts at Shipley, and my personal favorite: The Parent Pass at Baskin-Robbins (which secured parents a $1.99 scoop of ice cream during the last event).
The majority of these first day of summer deals require a rewards membership, so be sure to get in on the free loyalty programs and apps before June 21, 2026.
Download The Krazy Coupon Lady app or text HACKS to 57299 for the latest money-saving tips, deals, and coupons.
The first day of summer is an annual celebration for the Summer Solstice — the longest day of the year — with food freebies and BOGO offers.
Each year, the summer solstice marks the official start of summer and the longest day of sunlight.
Restaurants often use this day as a seasonal kickoff, offering deals to draw in customers and build buzz as people head outdoors, travel more, and shift into summer routines and habits.
The next first day of summer falls on June 21, 2026.
Next year's first day of summer is on Sunday, June 20, 2026. The Earth's orbit doesn't exactly match our 365-day year, so we see the longest day fall on either June 20, 21, or 22 each year.
Predicted First Day of Summer Deals and Freebies for 2026
Baskin-Robbins: We predict Baskin Robbins will celebrate the start of summer in 2026 by offering rewards members an in-app exclusive Parents Pass coupon for discounted scoops.
Beyond Juicery + Eatery: Look for Beyond Juicery + Eatery to have a FREE color-changing cup when you purchase any 20-ounce drink.
Chicken Salad Chick: Chicken Salad Chick will likely offer a summer solstice discount when you dine in on June 21, 2026.
Culver's: Next year, watch for Culver's to have a deal, like BOGO chicken sandwiches on June 21.
Friendly's: Friendly's Rewards members can anticipate a free scoop or cone on the first day of summer in 2026.
Krispy Kreme: On June 21, look for Krispy Kreme to offer a $2 Original Glazed dozen when you purchase any dozen at regular price. Plus, they'll likely hold a giveaway for a year's worth of doughnuts.
Kroger: On June 21, 2026, we predict Kroger will give away FREE pints of ice cream (any flavor of Kroger-brand ice cream or sherbet) when you use a coupon.
Pita Pit: We predict a summer solstice discount on any smoothies at Pita Pit on Sunday, June 21.
Scooter's Coffee: Watch for Scooter's Coffee to offer rewards members Double Smiles on any Red Bull Infusion drink after 11 a.m. on June 21, 2026.
Shipley Do-Nuts: Next year, all customers will likely get a classic Shipley Glazed Do-Nut with any purchase.
Sonic: We anticipate Sonic will celebrate the first of Live Free Fridays happening all summer long.
TGI Fridays: Get $5 Happy Hour all day long when you dine-in at TGI Fridays on June 21, 2026.
Wendy's: Celebrate summer in 2026 with a summer solstice deal in the Wendy's app.
White Castle: Watch for BOGO free small shakes at White Castle after 8 p.m. on June 21 with a promo code.
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