For bagel enthusiasts, Wednesday marks a delightful occasion: National Bagel Day.

The bagel, a time-honored food, traces its roots back to the 13th century before making its way to the United States in the 19th century. Its name is derived from “bajgiel” in Polish and “beygal” in Yiddish, both meaning ring-shaped bread, as noted by National Geographic.

Many consider the bagel to be the ideal food choice. It comes in a variety of flavors—my favorites are plain and cinnamon raisin—and can be topped with cream cheese, butter, or other spreads. Bagels can also be transformed into savory sandwiches, whether it’s a meat, egg, and cheese combo for breakfast or a turkey, lettuce, and tomato sandwich for lunch.

As your cravings kick in, here are some National Bagel Day promotions you might want to check out. Be sure to keep an eye on your local bagel shop’s social media for special offers as well.

Panera Bread free bagel promotion

The popular bakery-café chain is hosting a “Bagel Bash” event, running until January 21, featuring its new Asiago Bagel Stack lunch sandwiches—options include Chicken Roma, Spicy Steak, or Zesty Tuscan, each for $7.99. Members of the MyPanera loyalty program who purchase one of these sandwiches will receive a free bagel on their next visit.

Manhattan Bagel free bagel and cream cheese

On National Bagel Day, all members of the Manhattan Bagel eClub will receive an email containing a promo code for a complimentary bagel with cream cheese. You still have the chance to sign up online or through the app in time for National Bagel Day.

Biggby Coffee’s 50% off bagel sandwich offer

Biggby Coffee, which boasts over 200 locations nationwide, will celebrate National Bagel Day with a 50% discount on bagel sandwiches at participating locations.

Einstein Bros. complimentary bagel egg sandwich

Beginning on National Bagel Day and continuing through January, members of the Einstein Bros. Bagels Rewards program can enjoy a free egg sandwich with any purchase made through the app or online. The menu includes a dozen varieties, such as the Texas Brisket Egg Sandwich and Garden Avocado Egg Sandwich.

If you’re not yet a member, you can enroll online to take advantage of this offer.

Bruegger’s Bagels free bagel and cream cheese

Bruegger’s Bagels, with over 175 locations across the U.S., will give anyone who joins the Bruegger’s Rewards loyalty program a complimentary bagel and cream cheese with a purchase during January to commemorate National Bagel Day. (Offer valid at participating locations only.)

Follow Mike Snider on Threads, Bluesky, and X: mikegsnider & @mikegsnider.bsky.social & @mikesnider.