May presents a unique opportunity for U.S. consumers to access a variety of free products, samples, and promotional offers. From national food holidays that feature complimentary treats to brand-specific giveaways and ongoing sample programs, the month is rich with potential for those seeking to try new products without cost. This guide aggregates verified information on available freebies, detailing the types of offers, how to access them, and important considerations for participants. The focus is on providing clear, actionable information based on official sources and established promotional patterns.
May National Food Holidays and Associated Freebies
National food holidays are a common marketing tool used by restaurants and food brands to drive customer engagement. Many establishments celebrate these days with special promotions, including free items or significant discounts. While offers vary by location and year, the following holidays in May have historically been associated with freebies or deals.
Key May Food Holidays
- May 2: National Truffles Day
- Potential deals may include free or discounted chocolate truffles from gourmet chocolate shops and candy retailers. Look for in-store samples or buy-one-get-one offers at participating locations.
- May 5: Cinco de Mayo
- This day often features promotions at Mexican-themed restaurants and food brands. For example, Chipotle has offered free chips and Queso Blanco with the promo code CINCO25 and free delivery with the code DELIVER via their app.
- May 5: National Hoagie Day
- Sub sandwich shops may offer free sandwiches or discounted subs. Checking with local chains is recommended.
- May 6: Teacher Appreciation Day
- Many businesses offer discounts or freebies to educators. This often includes free food or drinks at restaurants and coffee shops with a valid ID.
- May 8: National Empanada Day
- Restaurants and bakeries specializing in empanadas may offer free samples or discounted purchases.
- May 11: Mother’s Day
- While not a national food holiday, Mother’s Day is a major promotional period. Many restaurants offer special prix-fixe menus, and some may provide complimentary items like desserts or flowers for mothers.
- May 14: National Buttermilk Biscuit Day
- Biscuit-focused restaurants or fast-food chains may give away free biscuits or offer buy-one-get-one deals.
- May 15: National Chocolate Chip Day
- Bakeries, cookie shops, and even ice cream parlors might offer free chocolate chip cookies or samples.
- May 16: National Barbecue Day
- BBQ restaurants and grocery stores with prepared food sections may offer free samples of meats, sauces, or sides.
- May 17: National Pizza Party Day (3rd Friday in May)
- Pizzerias often run promotions on this day, such as discounted pizzas, free toppings, or free breadsticks with a purchase.
- May 25: National Wine Day
- Wine shops, vineyards, and some restaurants may offer free wine tastings or discounted bottles.
- May 28: National Hamburger Day
- Burger chains frequently celebrate with free or discounted burgers. For instance, some national chains have offered free burgers with a purchase or free small burgers for loyalty members.
Important Note: The availability of these freebies is not guaranteed. Promotions can change annually, are often location-specific, and may require a purchase or in-store visit. Consumers should verify offers with local establishments before visiting.
Ongoing and Seasonal Freebie Programs
Beyond one-day food holidays, May is a month for several recurring freebie programs and seasonal promotions. These often require online registration or in-person sign-up at a specific time.
Walmart+ Week
- Timing: Through May 4th (as noted in the source material).
- Offer Details: This event is exclusive to Walmart+ members. Promotions have included:
- 50¢ per gallon discount on fuel at participating stations.
- Daily Burger King freebies for members.
- Bonus Walmart Cash when members take advantage of two or more deals during the event.
- Eligibility: Must be a paid Walmart+ subscriber. The source does not specify if new sign-ups during the event receive these benefits.
May the 4th Be With You (Star Wars Day)
- Date: May 4th.
- Offer Details: Retailers across the country often run sales and promotions. Specific examples from previous years include:
- Discounted Star Wars apparel and toys at Disney and Amazon.
- Deals from brands like LEGO and Vera Bradley.
- In-store events at LEGO stores, such as the opportunity to register and build a free LEGO Star Wars Grogu model.
- Eligibility: Offers are generally available to the public, but some may require in-store presence or online purchase. The free LEGO build may require registration and participation at a specific store.
Free Comic Book Day
- Date: May 2, 2026 (as noted in the source material).
- Offer Details: Participating comic book shops across the U.S. give away a selection of free comic books to customers.
- Eligibility: Typically open to all attendees, though quantities may be limited per person.
Free Haagen-Dazs Cone Day
- Timing: May 2026 (specific date not provided in the source).
- Offer Details: Haagen-Dazs locations often host an annual "Cone Day" where customers can receive a free ice cream cone.
- Eligibility: Usually available to all customers at participating locations, while supplies last.
Free Planet Fitness Teen Summer Pass
- Timing: Summer 2025 (as noted).
- Offer Details: Planet Fitness offers a free summer pass