Key Highlights
- National Bagel Day is celebrated on January 15, 2026.
- Einstein Bros. Bagels and Panera Bread are among the many establishments offering special deals on this day.
- The day celebrates a classic food that has origins in the 13th century and was introduced to the U.S. in the 19th century.
- Favorite bagel flavors include plain, Asiago, everything, six cheese, and cheddar jalapeño.
National Bagel Day: Celebrating a Classic Food with Special Deals
National Bagel Day, which is set for Thursday, January 15, 2026, is a perfect opportunity to indulge in one of the world’s most beloved breakfast foods. The day celebrates bagels that have a rich history dating back to the 13th century and were introduced to the U.S. during the 19th century.
The Evolution of Bagels
Bagels, with their ring-shaped bread origins from Poland’s “bajgiel” or Yiddish’s “beygal,” have evolved into a diverse menu of flavors and toppings. A recent survey by Einstein Bros. Bagels revealed that plain bagels remain the top choice, followed closely by Asiago, everything, six cheese, and cheddar jalapeño.
Favorite Shmear Flavors
When it comes to toppings, the most popular shmears include plain cream cheese, garden veggie, honey almond, and jalapeño salsa. These classic pairings enhance the simple yet satisfying taste of a traditional bagel.
Special Deals on National Bagel Day
A variety of establishments are offering special deals to mark this day:
- Biggby Coffee: Get a bagel and cream cheese for $1 with the purchase of any 20-ounce or 24-ounce specialty beverage.
- Bruegger’s Bagels: Members of Bruegger’s Rewards can get a free bagel and cream cheese with any purchase on National Bagel Day. New members can sign up online to receive the deal at participating locations.
- Einstein Bros. Bagels: Customers will receive a free Bagel & Shmear with any purchase on January 15, 2026.
Just mention “National Bagel Day” when ordering in-bakery for this offer.
- H&H Bagels: Members of the H&H Rewards loyalty program can get a free bagel and spread sandwich on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Order online or through the app to receive the deal at participating locations.
- Panera Bread: For National Bagel Day, customers buying an Asiago Bagel Stack will get a second stack of their choice for free with code BOGOSTACK. Panera has also introduced new breakfast options like the Wake-Up BLT Asiago Everything Bagel Stack and a Jenga-like Stack & Spill game ($7.99).
Other participating stores include GoPuff, Stop & Shop, and Western Bagel, which is offering a $15 special on a baker’s dozen of bagels.
About the Author
Mike Snider is a national news reporter for USA TODAY. He can be reached at [email protected].
