🍩 Happy National Donut Day — Nov 5!

Today is National Donut Day, a celebration with roots tracing back to early Dutch settlers, who brought “olie koeken” — or “oil cakes” — to America in the 17th and 18th centuries. These early fried treats evolved into the ring-shaped donut we know today, with automated donut-making machinery helping popularize them by the early 1900s.

 

To mark the day, consider grabbing a treat at one of our local River Valley favorites:

 

🍩 7 Local Spots to Celebrate

 

Fort Smith

• Irish Maid Donuts — Long-running spot best known for fresh classics, kolaches, and pastries.

• The Donut Palace (Fort Smith) — Widely praised variety + drive-thru convenience.

• Sugar Llamas — Boutique-style donuts, fun flavors, and a modern vibe.

• Sunny Donuts — A downtown stop offering fresh daily donuts.

 

Van Buren

• Donut Palace (Van Buren) — Local favorite known for fresh donuts and friendly service.

• Paul’s Bakery — Community-loved bakery offering donuts, pastries, and cakes.

 

Alma

• Smith Donuts — Family-run shop serving donuts, cookies, and sweets.

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Whether you’re picking up a dozen for the office or treating the kids before school, it’s a great day to support local bakeries, enjoy a sweet bite, and celebrate a classic American treat.

 

Happy National Donut Day! 🍩