Election Day in Philadelphia and the surrounding region is marked by a variety of promotional offers and freebies designed to encourage civic participation. Businesses ranging from local eateries to national chains provide incentives for voters, often requiring proof of voting such as an "I Voted" sticker. While many of these offers are specific to the Philadelphia area, others are available nationwide. It is important for consumers to note that these promotions are structured as marketing initiatives rather than direct rewards for voting, which helps businesses comply with election laws. The following guide details the various food, beverage, and service discounts available to voters in the Philadelphia region.
Local Philadelphia and Regional Food Offers
Several Philadelphia-based establishments and regional chains offer specific incentives for voters on Election Day. These offers typically require the presentation of an "I Voted" sticker or are available to anyone visiting the location.
Famous 4th Street Delicatessen Located in Philadelphia, this historic deli is offering a special treat for patrons on Election Day. Guests who visit the establishment wearing a sticker can enjoy a free serving of latkes (potato pancakes) or a cookie of their choice. This offer aligns with the deli’s tradition as a gathering spot for political figures and locals alike.
Country Cookin Saudia Shuler, known in Philadelphia, is hosting a large-scale giveaway at 3824 N. Broad St. The promotion involves distributing over 3,000 free platters to citizens of Philadelphia who have voted. Each platter includes a choice of meat and two sides.
Collegeville Italian Bakery Pizzeria Napoletana Situated in Montgomery County, this bakery is offering a free slice of pizza to anyone who votes. Customers must present their "I Voted" sticker to redeem a free slice of cheese or Red Top pizza.
Ultimo Coffee Voters in Philadelphia can receive a free 8 oz drip coffee at all Ultimo Coffee locations. To redeem, customers must flash their "I Voted" sticker. The offer is valid at the Newbold, Rittenhouse, and Graduate Hospital locations from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and at the Germantown location from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Pizza to the Polls Pizza to the Polls is a nonprofit organization that delivers free pizza to voters waiting in long polling lines. On Election Day, the organization is handing out 1,500 slices in Philadelphia. Scheduled stops include Bright Hope Baptist Church (1601 N. 12th St.) from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and South Philadelphia High School (2101 S).
Princeton Area While not strictly in Philadelphia, a free cookie is available in Princeton for voters who show their "I Voted" sticker.
National Chain Offers and Discounts
National restaurant chains frequently participate in Election Day promotions, offering discounts and free items across the country, including the Philadelphia region.
Krispy Kreme Krispy Kreme offers a free glazed doughnut to visitors on Election Day. Additionally, customers receive an "I Voted" sticker at participating locations.
Boston Market Boston Market has offered promotions on Election Day, though details vary by source. One report indicates a free slider is available after 9 p.m. ET on Election Night. Another report suggests that at participating locations, customers can buy a pot pie and drink to receive a free pot pie. Consumers should verify specific terms with local restaurants.
Burger King Through Grubhub, Burger King is offering $3 off orders of $18 or more on Election Day.
Jersey Mike's The sandwich chain is offering a free turkey sub and free delivery on orders of $10 or more on Election Day for orders placed through Grubhub.
Shake Shack Shake Shack offers free fries with any purchase on Election Day.
Corner Bakery Corner Bakery is offering a free brewed or cold brewed coffee with a purchase.
Dave & Buster's The restaurant and video arcade chain is offering $5 beers on Election Day.
Fazoli's Fazoli's offers $2 off in-store purchases of specific pasta dishes (chicken parmigiano, loaded baked spaghetti, and spicy baked ziti with Italian sausage) for guests who cast ballots.
Flat Top Grill This restaurant chain is offering 20% off the in-store tab (excluding alcohol) for customers who present their "I Voted" sticker.
Johnny Rockets Patrons who mention the "Free Shake" offer at the register on Election Day can receive a free non-vegan milkshake with any in-store purchase.
Junior's Restaurant & Cheesecake Junior's is offering half off cheesecake slices with any entree. They also offer $5 off whole cakes in-restaurant and $7 off all cakes online through the Thursday following Election Day.
IKEA IKEA is offering a free meal to voters. The offer includes a free breakfast (two sausages, eggs, and hash browns) or a $5 off coupon for lunch or dinner.
Transportation and Service Offers
In addition to food and beverage discounts, some companies offer services to facilitate voting.
Lyft Lyft is offering a 50% discount up to $10 on rides to the polls on Election Day. Users must preload the ride code VOTE24 to access the discount. Lyft reports that it has helped 3 million people get to the polls since launching this program.
Hertz The car rental company is offering one free day on Election Day when a vehicle is rented for at least two days.
Important Considerations for Consumers
Eligibility and Redemption Most food and beverage offers require the customer to present a physical or digital "I Voted" sticker. Some offers, such as those available through third-party delivery apps like Grubhub, require ordering through specific platforms. Local offers, such as those from Country Cookin and Ultimo Coffee, may have specific location and time restrictions.
Legal Context While businesses provide these incentives to encourage voting, they are structured as general promotions or discounts rather than direct payments for voting. This distinction is important to comply with laws regarding election interference. Some restaurants may offer specials to everyone on Election Day, regardless of whether they have a sticker, to ensure legal compliance.
Verification of Offers Promotional details can change, and restrictions may apply. Consumers are advised to check with individual locations or visit official brand websites and verified social media pages for the most current information regarding offer availability, times, and specific terms and conditions.
Conclusion
Election Day in Philadelphia presents a unique opportunity for voters to access a variety of freebies and discounts from local businesses and national chains. From free pizza and coffee to discounted rides and meals, these promotions serve as a celebration of civic engagement. By presenting an "I Voted" sticker or participating in specific promotions, voters can enjoy these perks while exercising their democratic rights.