Who doesn’t love free stuff? Whether you’re blowing out birthday candles or tossing your graduation cap, many brands are ready to celebrate with you. This guide breaks down the best birthday and graduation freebies you can score this year.
Freebies are fun surprises companies give away to celebrate you — yes, literally free stuff. Whether it’s your birthday, graduation or just a special promotion, brands love handing out treats like free food, drinks, samples and exclusive discounts. For students, freebies are the perfect way to score fun perks without spending a dime.
Birthday Freebies:
Restaurants and Cafés
Many food chains offer birthday treats when you join their rewards programs. Starbucks gives members a free drink or bakery item on their birthday, while Dunkin’ offers a free beverage. Chains like IHOP, Chili’s and Panera also provide birthday deals ranging from pancakes to dessert items. A fan favorite, Crumbl Cookies, gives out a delicious free cookie of your choice when you mention your birthday at the counter. Most of these offers require signing up ahead of time, so it’s worth joining early.
“I love getting my birthday drink at Starbucks. I try and make it as expensive as possible because it’s free!” Annie Seminack ‘27 said.
Retail & Beauty Perks
Beauty brands and retailers also celebrate customers on their birthday month. Sephora and Ulta both give out free mini products to reward members, usually a skincare, makeup or hair care item. Clothing stores like American Eagle, Aerie, and Old Navy send discount codes or reward points during your birthday month. Sydney Podder ’27 said she plans to take advantage of these offers, noting that she “loves the idea of birthday freebies” and intends to pick up her Sephora birthday gift.
Entertainment & Excitement Freebies
Some entertainment companies join in on the fun too. Movie theaters like AMC and Regal sometimes offer free popcorn, drinks or birthday rewards through their apps.
Graduation Freebies:
Retail Discounts for Grads
Graduating seniors can take advantage of special discounts during spring and early summer. Stores like Adidas, Nike and Levi’s give student and grad discounts, making it easier and more affordable to buy outfits for celebrations, photos or senior events.
Food and Restaurant Graduation Deals
Many restaurants celebrate graduates with deals during the months May and June. Chains like Chipotle, IHOP and Buffalo Wild Wings offer buy-one-get-one meals, special graduation bundles or free entrees. Some fast-food chains send exclusive offers through apps or emails. By checking ahead of time and signing up for rewards programs, graduates can make their celebrations more special.
Tech and Subscription Deals
Graduates entering college or heading into a first job, can save on major tech purchases. Brands like Apple, Samsung and Best Buy frequently offer student pricing on laptops, headphones and tablets. Subscription services such as Spotify, Hulu and YouTube Premium also offer discounted student rates, which many grads qualify for.
Creative Way to Score Extra Graduation Perks
Another unexpected way to score freebies during graduation season is by sending your grad party invitations to celebrities, brands or your favorite companies. Many people have gotten surprise responses, like signed photos, congratulatory letters, coupons or small merchandise, as a way for brands to show appreciation and celebrate their customers/fans. While not every invitation will get a reply, it can be a fun and low-effort way to see who replies. Plus, if you do get something in the mail, it becomes a cool keepsake and a unique addition to your graduation memories. Ella Kurek ’26 said the idea was completely new to her, adding that she plans to try it now that she’s heard about it. “I’ve never heard of this in my life, but now that I know, I will definitely be sending out my graduation letters,” she said.
How to Make the Most of Freebies
One of the best ways to take advantage of birthday or graduation freebies is to turn it into a whole afternoon outing with a friend. Start by mapping out all the stores, cafés and restaurants offering deals, then spend the day hopping from place to place enjoying your treats. Grab a free drink, swing by a beauty store for your birthday gift, pick up a discount at a clothing store, and finish with a celebratory meal. Not only do you rack up tons of freebies, but it also becomes a fun, memorable experience that makes the celebration even sweeter.
