Teacher Appreciation Week 2026: Every Free Food Deal Available This Week

Teacher Appreciation Week runs May 4 through May 12, and restaurants across the country are offering free meals, discounts, and giveaways for educators. Here is every deal worth knowing about.

Chipotle (Through May 12)

Through May 12, teachers can enter a sweepstakes at teacherthanks.chipotle.com for a chance to win a free entrée e-gift card. Up to 100,000 teachers will be randomly selected and invited to verify their employment status via ID.me. Winners who verify within 48 hours will receive a free entrée e-gift card redeemable for a burrito, burrito bowl, tacos, salad or quesadilla. Winners will be notified starting May 13.
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Chick-fil-A (Check Local Location)

Chick-fil-A typically celebrates Teacher Appreciation Week, but participation is determined by individual franchise owners. Deals vary by location and may include free entrees, discounted items or breakfast promotions. Teachers are encouraged to check with their nearest location before visiting.

Shake Shack (May 4 through May 12)

From May 4 through May 12, teachers can receive a free ShackBurger or Veggie Shack at participating locations by presenting a valid school ID or employee badge at the register. The offer is valid for in-restaurant orders only and is not available through the app, online or third-party delivery. One free item per order, while supplies last. (details)

Insomnia Cookies

Teachers can receive a buy one get one free deal on classic cookies in store by showing a school ID at the register. Limited time flavors are usually excluded from the offer. (more details)

Buffalo Wild Wings (All Week)

Teachers receive 20% off their dine-in order with a valid employee ID at participating locations. Buffalo Wild Wings is also currently running its Bottomless Apps promotion starting at $9.99, which can be combined with the teacher discount.

Whataburger (May 7 Only)

On Thursday, May 7, from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. local time, teachers and school staff can receive a free breakfast at participating Whataburger locations with a valid school ID. Guests can choose from a Breakfast on a Bun, Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit or Breakfast Taquito. The offer is available for dine-in, takeout and drive-thru orders, limit one per person. Hours may vary by location.

Freebirds World Burrito (May 4 through May 12)

From May 4 through May 12, teachers with a valid ID can receive a buy one get one free deal on any size entree at Freebirds World Burrito. The offer is valid in store only.

Peet's Coffee (May 5 and All Month)

On May 5, teachers can receive a free small drip coffee, hot tea pouch, cold brew or iced tea pouch with a valid ID at participating Peet's Coffee locations. Additionally, teachers who verify their status through the Peet's rewards program receive 15% off for the entire month of May.

Krispy Kreme (May 7)

On Thursday, May 7, Teachers can receive one free glazed doughnut with any purchase at participating Krispy Kreme locations.

Deals and availability may vary by location. Always confirm with your local restaurant before visiting.