Birthday Freebies and Deals: The Ultimate List

Celebrating your birthday is even sweeter when you can score free treats and special discounts from your favorite places. Many U.S. restaurants, cafes, retailers, and entertainment venues offer birthday freebies or deals – some completely free, others requiring a purchase or loyalty sign-up. Below we’ve organized an extensive list by category, so you can plan a birthday full of freebies. Pro tip: In most cases you’ll need to join a rewards program or email club (often for free) before your birthday (sometimes at least a week or 30 days prior) to qualify, so sign up early! Now, let’s dive into the birthday perks in each category.

Restaurants (Fast Food & Casual Dining)

From diner breakfasts to casual dining chains, lots of restaurants want to help you celebrate with free food. Typically you’ll need to be a member of their loyalty program or email club (and sometimes make a purchase) to get these birthday deals. Here are some popular restaurants and their birthday offers:

Applebee’s – Free birthday dessert (with a $15 purchase) for members of the Applebee’s eClub.
Arby’s – Free small shake and small curly fries with the purchase of any sandwich, when you join Arby’s Rewards.
Benihana – $30 Birthday Certificate during your birth month (applied to your check) for members of The Chef’s Table; requires a minimum $30 purchase and can’t be used on alcohol or gratuity.
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse – Free Pizookie dessert (cookie skillet à la mode) available the week before and after your birthday for Premier Rewards Plus members.
Buffalo Wild Wings – Free order of 6 wings during your birthday month for Blazin’ Rewards members.
California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) – Free dessert on your birthday for all CPK Rewards members. (High-tier members even get a free entrée in addition to the dessert!)
The Cheesecake Factory – Free birthday cheesecake slice of your choice with any dine-in purchase (some locations simply provide a complimentary birthday dessert if you let them know it’s your birthday). Joining their Rewards program (launched recently) can also unlock birthday rewards.

Chick-fil-A – Free birthday reward for Chick-fil-A One members. The treat varies by tier: basic members typically get a free cookie or brownie; higher Silver status might get an ice cream or milkshake; Red status can receive a free entrée (like a sandwich or nuggets). Just make sure your birthdate is in your Chick-fil-A One app profile.

Chili’s – Free dessert on your birthday for My Chili’s Rewards members. (You’ll usually get an email coupon or app notification – no purchase required for the dessert itself.)
Chipotle – Free order of chips and guacamole (or queso) with a $5 purchase for Chipotle Rewards members on their birthday. The offer is loaded to your account and is valid for 30 days starting on your birthday.
Cracker Barrel – Free dessert and a rousing birthday song from the staff when you dine in on your birthday. No sign-up necessary – just tell your server it’s your special day.
Del Taco – Free regular-size milkshake on your birthday for Del Yeah! Rewards members. (Members with a lot of points in their account can choose any premium shake or dessert instead.)
Denny’s – Free Build Your Own Grand Slam breakfast on your birthday. Just show up at Denny’s on your big day with ID, or register for Denny’s Rewards to get the offer coupon – you’ll enjoy two eggs, two bacon or sausage, plus your choice of two pancakes, French toast, or biscuits & gravy, completely free!
Firehouse Subs – Free medium sub sandwich on your birthday when you have a Firehouse Rewards account and make any purchase (such as a drink or chips). The reward is valid on your birthday or within the following 6 days. Note: You must be enrolled in the loyalty program prior to the start of your birthday month.
IHOP – Free full stack of Rooty Tooty Fresh ’N Fruity or Original Buttermilk pancakes on your birthday for IHOP Rewards members (formerly the “Pancoins” or International Bank of Pancakes program). The voucher is emailed to you and valid for about 7 days.
Jersey Mike’s – Free regular sub and 22oz fountain drink on your birthday when you sign up for the Jersey Mike’s Email Club. (They do ask that you’ve made at least one prior sub purchase with the program in the past year.) The coupon arrives by email and is valid anytime on your birthday.

McDonald’s – Free medium order of fries in the McDonald’s app on your birthday. Just make sure you’ve joined MyMcDonald’s Rewards and entered your birth date. The free fries reward will appear in the app; no additional purchase necessary.

Moe’s Southwest Grill – Moe’s Rewards members get a special birthday offer, which traditionally has been a free burrito. It’s loaded to your app and usually valid for about a week. (Moe’s will sing to you in the store, too, if you don’t mind the fanfare!)
Olive Garden – Free dessert of your choice when dining in on your birthday. No membership or coupon required – just let your server know it’s your birthday and enjoy a complimentary treat, from tiramisu to cake.
Outback Steakhouse – Free birthday dessert for dine-in guests. Mention your birthday to your server and Outback will bring a sweet treat (like a scoop of ice cream with chocolate sauce) on the house, often accompanied by a round of the Aussie birthday song.
P.F. Chang’s – Free appetizer or dessert during your birthday month for P.F. Chang’s Rewards members. The reward is loaded to your account (no purchase required to use it) and can be redeemed once any day in your birthday month.
Red Lobster – Free birthday treat for My Red Lobster Rewards members. Currently, the birthday reward is a free single piece of the restaurant’s famous Chocolate Wave cake (rich chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream) – no purchase necessary.
Red Robin – Free Red Robin Birthday Burger (any burger on the menu!) for Red Robin Royalty members. The offer is valid once during the entire month of your birthday, and you can dine in or order online. (Kids signed up in the program get a free kids’ meal on their birthday, too.)
Ruby Tuesday – Free dessert (or free Garden Bar salad add-on) for SoConnected email club members. The reward coupon can be used 7 days before your birthday, on your birthday, or up to 14 days after.
Sbarro – Free XL slice of NY-style pizza on your birthday with a $5 purchase, for members of the Sbarro Slice Society rewards (via the app). The offer is valid from a week before until about two weeks after your birthday.
Shake Shack – Free shake on your birthday for Shake Shack app users. Just add your birth date to your profile in the Shack App; you’ll find a free shake reward you can redeem either on your birthday or within a week after.

Smashburger – Free classic shake on your birthday (or within 7 days) for Smashburger Rewards members. The coupon will appear in your account automatically each year.

Sonic Drive-In – Free small side item and a drink or shake on your birthday for Sonic Rewards members. The Sonic app will deliver a birthday reward (typically a choice of a medium tater tot or fries and a small ice cream shake) – simply order through the app or show the QR code in-store.
Subway – Free birthday treat for Subway MyWay Rewards members, varying by tier status: basic “Subway Pro” members get a free cookie; “Captain” tier gets a free cookie and 20 oz fountain drink; top-tier “All-Star” members receive a free 6-inch sub of their choice. All birthday rewards are valid for about 2 weeks after your birthday.
Taco Bell – Free birthday surprise for Taco Bell Rewards members. The exact freebie can change, but often it’s a free Doritos Locos Taco or similar menu item. (You must have made at least one Taco Bell order on the app in the prior year to qualify.)
TGI Fridays – Free dessert on your birthday for Fridays Rewards members. The coupon for a dessert (like a brownie or cheesecake) loads to your account automatically each year.
Waffle House – Free waffle on your birthday when you join the Waffle House Regulars Club. Members get emailed a coupon for a complimentary waffle (your choice of flavor) to redeem in-store.
Which Wich – Free regular sandwich on your birthday for Vibe Club Rewards members. (Requires at least one purchase in the prior year.) The reward is valid up to 7 days after your birthday, so you don’t have to use it same-day.
Zaxby’s – Free Mrs. Z’s specialty cookies (three cookies) on your birthday for Zaxby’s Rewards app users. The offer will appear in the app and can be redeemed either through an online order or by scanning in-store.

Coffee Shops & Bakeries

Your morning cup of joe or sweet pastry can be free on your birthday at many coffeehouses and bakery cafés. Most require joining a free rewards app or email list. Be aware of each program’s terms – some give the reward only on your exact birthday, others anytime during your birthday week or month. Here are the birthday deals from coffee shops, donut spots, and bakeries:

7-Eleven – Free Medium Slurpee during your birthday month for 7Rewards members. Just use the 7-Eleven app and you’ll find a coupon for a Slurpee (any flavor) loaded to your account on the first day of your birthday month.
Auntie Anne’s Pretzels – Free pretzel on your birthday when you use the Pretzel Perks app. (To qualify, you must have spent at least $10 through the app in the year before your birthday.) The reward is good for a classic pretzel of your choice.
Caribou Coffee – Free any-size drink on your birthday week for Caribou Perks members. The offer (good for 7 days) appears in your account, and you can redeem it for your favorite latte, brewed coffee, or specialty drink.
Cinnabon – Free birthday treat for Cinnabon Rewards members. They typically give a free MiniBon cinnamon roll or a free iced coffee – check the app on your birthday for the exact freebie.
Dunkin’ – 3X points on all purchases on your birthday for Dunkin’ Rewards members. (Dunkin’ used to offer a free birthday drink, but under the newer program you’ll instead earn triple loyalty points on anything you buy that day, which can quickly earn a free item.)
Dutch Bros Coffee – Free drink of any size on your birthday when you’ve downloaded the Dutch Bros app and joined their rewards program. The reward will automatically appear on your birthday and is valid all day for a medium drink (or you can pay the difference to get a large).
Einstein Bros. Bagels – Free egg sandwich with purchase for Shmear Society members. The coupon for a free breakfast sandwich (such as a Bacon & Cheddar Egg Sandwich) will be emailed to you on your birthday, and you just need to buy any beverage or other item to redeem it (valid for about 14 days).
Panera Bread – Free pastry or sweet bakery item on your birthday for MyPanera members. The reward is loaded to your account and can be redeemed on your birthday or within 7 days after – choose a cookie, muffin, pastry, or any sweet treat from the bakery case, completely free.
Peet’s Coffee – Free birthday beverage for Peetnik Rewards members. As long as you enroll at least 7 days before and have made at least one prior purchase with your account, Peet’s will gift you a free drink of your choice (any size, any kind) on your birthday, valid for about 14 days.
Starbucks – Free birthday drink or food item for Starbucks Rewards members. You get to pick any handcrafted beverage (any size with any customization), OR a food item OR a ready-to-drink bottled beverage – totally free. The only catch: it’s only valid on your actual birthday, and you must have joined Starbucks Rewards at least 7 days prior and made at least one purchase on your account before your birthday. Mark your calendar to hit Starbucks on your big day!

Tim Hortons – Free birthday treat for Tims Rewards members. The Tim Hortons app will show a birthday reward – often it’s a free hot or iced coffee, donut, or baked good of your choice. (Be sure you’ve made at least one prior purchase with the app in the past year to qualify.)

Biggby Coffee – Free beverage (any up to 24 oz) during the 30 days after your birthday for Biggby e-wards members. The coupon is emailed to you and valid for a month, so you don’t have to use it that exact day.
A&W Restaurants – Free Root Beer Float on your birthday when you join the A&W Mug Club. The offer is usually emailed as a coupon – just redeem at any A&W for a free small root beer float treat.
Wetzel’s Pretzels – Free pretzel on your birthday for Wetzel’s Pretzels app users. The reward will pop up in the app on your birthday; no purchase required to claim your free warm pretzel.
Peet’s Coffee – Free birthday drink of your choice for Peetnik Rewards members (see Peet’s above – it’s worth mentioning again if you’re a coffee lover!).
Burger King – (Honorable mention in the coffee/drinks category) While BK is a fast-food restaurant, note that Burger King Rewards grants 2x loyalty points for all purchases in your birthday month, instead of a specific free item. Those extra points can be redeemed for free coffees, fries, or other menu items.

(Pssst – Krispy Kreme and others are coming up in the dessert section next!)

Ice Cream & Dessert Shops

What’s a birthday without dessert? Ice cream parlors, donut shops, and other sweet stops often give birthday goodies. Most require joining a loyalty club or downloading an app, and some offers might require a purchase (like BOGO deals). Indulge in these birthday sweets:

Baskin-Robbins – Free regular scoop of ice cream on your birthday when you sign up for the Baskin-Robbins Birthday Club. You’ll get an email coupon for a free 2.5 oz scoop, valid any time during your birthday month. (They’ll also send you a discount on an ice cream cake if you’re in the mood to splurge.)
Cold Stone Creamery – Buy-One-Get-One Creation™ (ice cream with mix-ins) for My Cold Stone Club Rewards members on their birthday. Essentially, you get one free ice cream (of equal or lesser value) when you purchase another – perfect excuse to bring a friend! The offer is valid within the week before or after your birthday.
Dairy Queen – Free birthday treat for DQ Rewards members. Dairy Queen doesn’t specify the exact item, but typically they’ll send a coupon for a free Blizzard or other menu item (sometimes it’s a BOGO Blizzard). Important: To qualify, you must have made at least one purchase through the DQ app in the 30–45 days before your birthday. If you meet that, look for a sweet reward in the app during your birthday month.
Krispy Kreme – Free doughnut of your choice on your birthday for Krispy Kreme Rewards members. You’ll find a coupon in the app or your email—no purchase necessary, just enjoy a fresh doughnut on the house. (This is in addition to the free doughnut you get just for signing up in the first place!) Some locations even throw in a free small coffee for your birthday, but that may vary.
Rita’s Italian Ice – Free Italian Ice (or custard) on your birthday when you join Rita’s Birthday Club (via their mobile app). The reward typically appears a few days before your birthday and is good for a free regular-sized Italian Ice, Frozen Custard, or Gelati.
Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt – $5 credit on your account during your birthday month for MyMenchie’s rewards members. You can use it toward a free cup of fro-yo (up to $5 value) — basically a free small yogurt with toppings, or to reduce the price of a larger one.
Pinkberry – Free small swirl of frozen yogurt with toppings on your birthday for Pinkberry Rewards (Pinkcard) members. The offer shows up in the app and is valid for one week. (Additionally, Pinkberry gives you a free yogurt after every 10 purchases, so the birthday freebie is a nice bonus.)
TCBY (The Country’s Best Yogurt) – Free small cup of frozen yogurt on your birthday for TCBY Loyalty members. Just register online or through their app and you’ll get the offer each year, redeemable in-store.
Crumbl Cookies – Free cookie on your birthday through the Crumbl App. Crumbl’s loyalty program will grant you a single free gourmet cookie (they’ll load a $5 reward, enough to cover one cookie) that you can claim in-store or via app order during your birthday.
Insomnia Cookies – Free cookie or treat on your birthday for CookieMagic or Insomnia Rewards members. Insomnia often emails a special offer (like a free deluxe cookie or a free cookie ‘wich ice cream sandwich) around your birthday. If you have their subscription “CookieMagic,” you already get a free cookie every day, but they sometimes throw in a premium item on your birthday as well.
Nothing Bundt Cakes – Free Confetti Bundtlet cake on your birthday when you join the Nothing Bundt Cakes eClub. The offer is emailed at the start of your birthday month and is valid for a free personal Bundtlet (mini bundt cake) – a perfectly sweet birthday indulgence!
Edible Arrangements – Free box of chocolate-dipped fruit on your birthday for Edible Rewards members. Specifically, you get a free 12-count chocolate-dipped fruit box (often includes chocolate-covered strawberries or apple bites). This reward typically appears in your account at the beginning of your birthday month, and no additional purchase is required.
Dippin’ Dots – Free cup of Dippin’ Dots ice cream on your birthday when you sign up for the Dot Crazy Email Club. The coupon is sent by email and can be redeemed at participating Dippin’ Dots locations for a small cup of those famous ice cream beads.
Godiva Chocolatier – Free birthday chocolate gift for Godiva Rewards Club members. (Godiva’s loyalty program offers a free chocolate reward each month, and on your birthday they usually give an extra piece or special offer in-store.)
See’s Candies – While not an official nationwide program, many See’s Candies shops will give you a free chocolate or lollipop if you mention it’s your birthday. And if you join their email list, they occasionally send birthday promo codes.
Local Ice Cream Shops – Don’t forget to check local or regional ice cream parlors. For example, Friendly’s (East Coast) offers a free medium sundae for BFF Club members, and Culver’s (Midwest) gives a free sundae to members of their MyCulver’s club. Even if they’re not national, your hometown favorites might have sweet birthday perks!

Beauty & Cosmetics Retailers

Beauty retailers love to pamper customers on their birthdays with free product minis and extra points. Typically, you’ll need to be a member of their loyalty program (usually free to join). Some gifts are redeemable in store without purchase, while online redemptions might require an order. Mark your calendar to pick up these beauty birthday treats:

Sephora and other beauty retailers offer free birthday gift sets – from skincare and makeup minis to fragrances – for loyalty members. Be sure to sign up for these programs to pamper yourself with fun freebies during your birthday month.

Sephora – Free birthday gift set for all Beauty Insider members (no purchase required in-store; if redeeming online, a $25 purchase is needed). Each year Sephora offers a selection of mini sets from top brands. During your birthday month, you can choose one gift, such as a skincare duo, a makeup sampler, or hair care minis. Simply let the cashier know you have a birthday reward or add it to an online order.
Ulta Beauty – Free birthday gift for Ultamate Rewards members. The gift changes quarterly (for example, one quarter might be a travel-size mascara or face palette, another quarter a skincare mini set). You also earn double points on all purchases during your birthday month. Platinum and Diamond tier members get an extra perk: a $10 coupon to spend on anything during your birthday month. (Make sure your birthdate is added to your account profile by the 1st of that month to receive the offers.)
MAC Cosmetics – Free birthday gift for MAC Lover loyalty members in the Devoted (Silver) or Obsessed (Gold) tier. Typically, MAC offers a product like a free lipglass, eyeshadow, or deluxe sample to qualifying members each year. (You reach Silver tier after spending $150/year, but some MAC stores have been known to honor the birthday freebie for any loyalty member – it never hurts to ask at the counter!)
Bath & Body Works – Free product (up to $7–10 value) during your birthday month for My B&BW Rewards members. You usually receive a coupon (via the app or email) for a free travel-size body care item or wallflower scent refill. The coupon does require a purchase to redeem (e.g. “Free gift up to $9.95 with any purchase”), so grab a small item and treat yourself to a free lotion, shower gel or candle.
The Body Shop – $10 Birthday Reward for Love Your Body Club members. This is basically a $10 credit to use on anything in-store or online during your birthday month. No other purchase is required as long as you pick an item $10 or under – it’s like a gift card. (Note: You must have joined the loyalty club and made at least one prior purchase in the last 12 months to qualify for the birthday reward.)
Kiehl’s – Free birthday gift set for Kiehl’s Rewards members. All members receive a free lip balm plus a deluxe skincare sample on their birthday. If you’re in a higher tier (from spending during the year), you get even more: mid-tier members get two deluxe samples, and top-tier get a travel-size product set and three samples. The gift can be redeemed in-store or added to an online order.
Aveda – Free travel-size product on your birthday for Aveda pure privilege members. Aveda’s program often mails out a certificate for a free birthday gift (like a 1 oz aromatherapy oil or hand cream) which you can pick up at any Aveda store or salon. In some cases, they now load an offer to your account that you can redeem with a purchase, plus they give double loyalty points for any purchases during your birthday month.
bareMinerals – Free birthday gift (usually a mini makeup item) for Fab Rewards members with a purchase during your birthday month. If you shop at bareMinerals around your birthday, be sure to log in – you’ll get a free item like a mini lipstick or powder added to your order.
Urban Decay – Free birthday gift for UD Beauty Junkies loyalty members. In past years Urban Decay has given members a free full-size eyeshadow or eyeliner on their birthday – no purchase needed if you claim in an Urban Decay store (if you redeem online, you might need to pay shipping). Make sure you’re signed up and check your email for the offer.
Lancôme – Birthday gift or discount for Lancôme Elite Rewards members. Currently, Lancôme offers a 20% off online coupon for your birthday (when you spend $100+), and higher-tier members also get bonus points. It’s not a freebie product, but the savings can be nice if you had your eye on something fancy.
Other Cosmetic Brands – Many other beauty brands have loyalty clubs with birthday benefits. For example, Tarte, Smashbox, IT Cosmetics, Benefit, Too Faced, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Charlotte Tilbury, Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) Beauty, and Sol de Janeiro all offer free birthday gifts or special coupons for members. These typically involve either a free mini product (sometimes requiring a purchase) or bonus points toward future freebies. If you have a favorite makeup or skincare brand, check their website for a rewards program and join so you don’t miss out on any birthday love.
Department Store Beauty Counters – Don’t forget stores like Macy’s or Nordstrom: while they’re covered in the retail section, note that if you’re part of Macy’s Star Rewards, you might get a beauty coupon on your birthday that you can use in their cosmetics department (plus Sephora inside Kohl’s gives you the Sephora gift, and Ulta inside Target gives the Ulta gift, etc.). Wherever you shop, there’s likely a birthday perk waiting!

Clothing & Lifestyle Stores

Many apparel retailers and lifestyle stores (shoes, accessories, etc.) reward your birthday with discounts or free rewards dollars. Typically you’ll need to be enrolled in their free loyalty program and have your birth date on file. These offers often come as coupons or reward certificates via email or app, and usually can be used any time in your birthday month. Get ready for some birthday shopping:

American Eagle / Aerie – $5 Birthday Reward for Real Rewards members. The certificate is emailed to you at the start of your birthday month and can be applied toward any purchase (in-store or online). It’s basically $5 free to spend as you wish.
Gap Inc. (Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, Athleta) – Special birthday discounts for loyalty members. If you join the free Navyist/Gap Good Rewards program, you’ll receive a birthday offer from each brand you shop. For example, Old Navy might email a coupon for an extra 10–20% off one purchase during your birthday month, and Banana Republic or Athleta may offer a free bonus points or a unique discount code as a “birthday bonus.” (If you’re a Gap Inc. credit card holder, the offers can be even bigger.)
Macy’s – Surprise birthday offer for Star Rewards members. If you’re a Macy’s loyalty member (even at the free Bronze level), Macy’s will send you a birthday “treat.” This can vary – often it’s a coupon like $10 off a $30 purchase or extra Star Money rewards. To qualify, you must have made a Macy’s purchase on your account within the past year. Keep an eye on your email or Macy’s app around your birthday for your special offer.
Target – 5% off one entire shopping trip for your birthday, given to Target Circle members. This offer appears in your Target Circle account on your birthday and is valid for about 30 days after. You can use that 5% off on a big Target run to save a few bucks (and yes, it stacks with your usual RedCard 5% if you have the Target credit/debit card).
Kohl’s – $5 Kohl’s Cash birthday gift for Kohl’s Rewards members. As long as you’ve made at least one purchase with your Kohl’s Rewards account in the year prior, Kohl’s will add $5 in Kohl’s Cash to your account at the start of your birthday month. You can spend it just like real Kohl’s Cash (no minimum purchase needed). It’s a nice free money perk to snag a little something at Kohl’s.
DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse) – $5 to $10 birthday reward for VIP members. DSW sends a birthday certificate: $5 for VIP Club (free tier) and $10 for VIP Gold/Elite (higher spend tiers). It’s valid on anything in the store or online, so you can treat yourself to new shoes or accessories at a discount.
H&M – 25% off one item during your birthday for H&M Members. The H&M app will have a coupon you can apply to any single item of your choice (great time to grab that jacket or dress you’ve been eyeing). This coupon usually appears on your account at the start of your birthday month and is usable in-store or online.
Victoria’s Secret / PINK – $10 Birthday Reward for members of the free VS & PINK Collective loyalty program. This reward is loaded to your account (and emailed) on your birthday and can be used on any purchase, online or in store. It’s essentially $10 off — many people use it to get a free pair of panties or apply it toward a bra. (If you have the Victoria’s Secret credit card, you actually get $10 on your half-birthday and $10 on your actual birthday, doubling the treats.)
Vera Bradley – Birthday coupon for VB Rewards members (often $20–25 off a $75+ purchase). It’s a nice way to save if you’re looking at their handbags or accessories, though not a completely free item unless you use it on something small with that minimum spend.
Savage X Fenty – Free birthday gift with purchase for Xtra VIP members. If you buy anything during your birthday month, Rihanna’s lingerie brand will automatically add a surprise gift to your order. It could be a cute accessory or underwear item. (Must be a rewards member; no separate coupon needed – the gift is just included.)

Reebok – Free annual birthday gift or discount for Reebok Unlocked members. Reebok typically emails a special offer, such as a coupon code for a percentage off your order or rewards points you can redeem. Other sportswear brands have similar perks: for example, Nike and Adidas don’t always advertise it, but they occasionally send members a birthday promo code (like 20% off select items). It’s worth being signed up if you’re a fan of those brands.

Rack Room Shoes – $10 off birthday reward for Rack Room Rewards members. It’s valid during your birthday month and can be applied to any footwear purchase. BOGO shoe shopping + a birthday coupon = even better deals.
Torrid – Birthday reward for Torrid Rewards members (usually $10 off, loaded to your account automatically). It works just like Torrid Cash and can be combined with other offers, so you can snag some plus-size fashion treats for less.
Children’s Place / Gymboree – Special kids’ birthday coupons for My Place Rewards members. If you register your children’s birthdays on your account, you’ll get a 20% off coupon during each child’s birthday month (25% if you’re a Place Card credit cardholder). Great way to save on new outfits or toys as a birthday gift to your little one. (They even enter you into a monthly $50 gift card sweepstakes for each birthday registered.)
Hot Topic – $5 birthday coupon for Hot Topic Guest List members. If edgy pop-culture tees and accessories are your thing, you’ll get $5 off your purchase during your birthday month, no strings attached. (BoxLunch, a related retailer, offers a similar birthday reward too.)
Express – Birthday offer for Express Insider members. Depending on your tier, Express emails a coupon (often $10 off $30 for base members, or $20 off $50 for higher tier) for use during your birthday month.
Anthropologie – Birthday discount for Anthro Loyalty members. Each year Anthro sends a 15% off coupon good during your birthday month – perfect for treating yourself to something pretty for your wardrobe or home.
Urban Outfitters – $5 UO Rewards credit on your birthday. If you’re part of Urban’s free rewards program, they’ll drop 100 points into your account as a birthday gift, which translates to $5 off your next purchase.
Free People – 15% off birthday coupon for FP Movement loyalty members (similar to Anthropologie since they’re sister brands).
Sephora & Kohl’s – This one’s unique: if you shop at a Sephora inside a Kohl’s store and you’re a member of both Sephora Beauty Insider and Kohl’s Rewards, you actually get two birthday gifts – Sephora’s free gift set and Kohl’s $5 reward! Double win while beauty shopping.

And beyond clothing, there are other retail and lifestyle birthday perks worth noting:

CVS Pharmacy – $3 ExtraBucks reward on your birthday for ExtraCare members. Just check your CVS ExtraCare account or app; the $3 birthday ExtraBucks are loaded and can be spent on nearly anything in the store, just like cash. (It expires quickly, so use it during your birthday month.)
Cost Plus World Market – Birthday coupon (usually $10 off a $10+ purchase) for Explorer Rewards members. This essentially lets you pick out something up to $10 for free – whether it’s an international snack haul, a home décor item, or a bottle of wine (yes, you can use it on alcohol in many states). They email the coupon at the start of your birthday month.
IKEA – Free dessert and a special coupon for IKEA Family members. If you’re part of the free IKEA Family loyalty program, you’ll get a birthday email with a coupon for a free frozen yogurt or ice cream cone from the IKEA Bistro, plus a $10 off coupon (typically $10 off a $50 purchase) to use in-store during your birthday month. You must have joined at least 30 days before your birthday to get this perk.
Petco – Birthday perks for your pet! If you have a pet and add their birthday to your Petco Pals Rewards profile, Petco will email a 10% off coupon during your pet’s birthday month. (Additionally, PetSmart’s Treats program often gives out a free small bag of treats on your pet’s birthday if you’re subscribed.) It might not be your birthday freebie, but your furry friend will appreciate it.
Barnes & Noble – If you’re a Barnes & Noble Premium Member (paid membership) or enrolled in the Kids’ Club, you’ll receive a birthday coupon (in the past, it’s been something like 20% off one item for adult members, and a free cupcake or cookie from the café for kids club members).
Ace Hardware – Free $5 off coupon for Ace Rewards members on their birthday. It’s automatically sent to your account (and email) and can be used in-store on any purchase. Perfect for snagging some free tools, paint, or household gadgets.

As you can see, nearly every type of store has some birthday love to give – from fashion and beauty to furniture, pets, and beyond. Always make sure your loyalty program profiles have your birth date entered, and watch your email or apps when the time comes.

Entertainment & Activities

Birthdays aren’t just about food and shopping – you can have fun for free too! Movie theater chains, arcades, bowling alleys, and other entertainment venues often have birthday specials. These usually require signing up for a free rewards program or email list beforehand. Get ready for some entertainment on the house:

Movie theaters like AMC and Regal treat loyalty members to free popcorn (and more) on their birthdays. Don’t forget to join your local theater’s rewards program for a cinematic birthday perk!

AMC Theatres – Free large popcorn during your birthday month for AMC Stubs Insider members. If you’re a Premier or A-List member (paid tiers), you get a free large popcorn and a large fountain drink. The reward loads automatically to your AMC Stubs account at the start of your birthday month – just claim it at the concession stand when you’re catching a birthday movie. (No movie ticket purchase is required to use the free popcorn/drink – you could literally walk in just to grab it – but where’s the fun in that? 😉)
Regal Cinemas – Free popcorn on your birthday for Regal Crown Club members. Regal will add a free popcorn reward to your account each year, which you can redeem for a small popcorn at any Regal theater. (Premiere/Unlimited members might get a free popcorn and drink, depending on the latest program perks.)
Cinemark Theatres – Free birthday treat for Cinemark Movie Rewards members. Cinemark doesn’t always publicize it, but if you’re a member of their free tier (Movie Fan) or paid Movie Club, you’ll typically find a coupon in your account during your birthday month – often for a free large soda or popcorn. (Many report getting a free fountain drink as a birthday reward from Cinemark.)
Alamo Drafthouse – Free birthday dessert for Alamo Victory rewards members. Alamo used to give free movie tickets on birthdays, but currently they’re offering a free “birthday sweet” (like a dessert or shake). When you attend a movie around your birthday, let your server know you have a birthday reward – you’ll get a complimentary treat from the menu to enjoy during the show.
Dave & Buster’s – Free game play credit for your birthday when you join D&B Rewards. Typically, Dave & Buster’s will email you a coupon for $5 or $10 worth of free game tokens during your birthday week. You just scan the barcode from the email or app at the restaurant to load the free play onto your Power Card – no purchase required to use it on the arcade games!

Chuck E. Cheese – Birthday rewards for Chuck E. Cheese Rewards members (and birthday club subscribers). If you add your child’s birthday to the Chuck E. Cheese More Cheese Rewards app, you’ll receive a special birthday offer – commonly 20 minutes of free play or bonus game points for the birthday kid. They also sometimes email extra coupons for birthday party bookings or meal deals. It’s a great way to make a trip to Chuck E. Cheese extra fun and affordable on your kid’s big day. (They even send something on the half-birthday!)

Main Event – Free arcade play with purchase for birthday celebrants. Main Event (a nationwide bowling and arcade center) has offered deals like “buy $20 in game credits, get $20 free” for your birthday. If you sign up for their emails, look out for a birthday BOGO game card coupon to enjoy arcade games on the cheap.
Bowling Alleys – Many bowling centers have birthday club offers. For instance, Bowlero/AMF bowling centers often send email club members a coupon for a free game of bowling or free shoe rental on their birthday. It may vary by location, but if you’re a bowling fan, check with your local alley to see if they have a birthday free-play deal.
Movie Rental/Streaming – Redbox – Free one-night DVD rental during your birthday month for Redbox Perks members. Redbox will email you a promo code for a free DVD (or a discount on a Blu-ray/On Demand rental) around your birthday. It’s perfect for a movie night at home. (Make sure you’ve created a free Redbox Perks account and have your birth date saved on it.)
Medieval Times – Free admission on your birthday with the purchase of another adult ticket, through the Medieval Times “Birthday Fellowship.” If you sign up on their website, they’ll send you a code before your birthday for the BOGO offer. You and a friend can enjoy the dinner tournament show for the price of one – a royal birthday treat!
Six Flags & Theme Parks – While most major theme parks no longer do free admission on birthdays, they often have special experiences. (Disney Parks, for example, stopped free entry on birthdays years ago but will give you a birthday button that can lead to fun interactions.) However, smaller local amusement parks or attractions might offer free entrance or rides for birthdays, so it’s worth checking their websites.

Local Attractions – Keep an eye out for birthday perks at local museums, zoos, escape rooms, mini-golf, and other attractions. For example, some mini-golf courses let you play free on your birthday, and certain museums have “birthday person free” policies. These aren’t national deals, but a quick call or search could uncover extra fun in your area.

Gaming & Apps – Even some online or app-based games reward your birthday. For instance, the Topgolf App has given free game credits to use at Topgolf venues during your birthday week, and some escape room companies email you discount codes on birthdays.

Finally, don’t forget to mention it’s your birthday wherever you go celebrating. Even if a business doesn’t have a formal program, many restaurants will still bring you a little something (like a scoop of ice cream with a candle) if they know you’re celebrating your day. It never hurts to politely let your server or the staff know – you might get a surprise freebie just because everyone loves to spread birthday cheer!

How to Get the Most Out of Birthday Freebies:

To wrap up, here are a few quick tips. Plan ahead and sign up for these loyalty programs well before your birthday (many require a few days or a month’s notice). Check your email and apps as your birthday approaches so you don’t miss any coupons – set reminders if needed. Bring a photo ID on your actual birthday in case a place needs to verify the date. And consider spacing out your freebie hauling across a few days before/after your birthday, especially the food – there’s a lot of deliciousness on this list, and you don’t have to consume it all in one day! Invite friends or family to join in on the freebie outings; many deals are dine-in only, so it’s a perfect excuse for a birthday week of fun meals and activities with your loved ones.

Enjoy your special day and all the perks that come with it – happy birthday and happy freebies hunting! 🎉🎂🍔☕🍦

Featured