Pretzels are believed to have originated at a monastery during the 16th century, where an Italian monk came up with an idea to bake a special treat to motivate his students. These soft, pillowy treats were folded into a neat loop-de-loop to resemble hands crossed on the chest in prayer, and now we have the iconic soft and salty treat we enjoy today.

Pretzels also came to symbolize love, as royal couples in Switzerland used to break a pretzel in their wedding ceremonies. This may also be where the phrase “tying the knot” came from.

With its rich history, this soft, buttery bread has found its way into many of our hearts in many forms — sticks, loops, soft, crunchy, buttery, and even cinnamon-y and caramel-y. So whether it be for treating yourself after a hard study session or for a romantic gesture, you’ll surely appreciate these amazing pretzel deals for April 26 — National Pretzel Day.

Auntie Anne’s

If you’re a member of Auntie Anne’s rewards program, you can get a free Original (regularly $3.66) or Cinnamon Sugar (regularly $3.89) pretzel in store on National Pretzel Day with no purchase necessary.

If you’re not available to make it to the stores, Auntie Anne’s also offers free delivery if you spend $12 or more on the Auntie Anne’s app or website. That’s a minimum of ordering four pretzels and having them delivered to your home for free!

Philly Pretzel Factory

The Philly Pretzel Factory makes their $1 pretzels free for all customers that visit the store on National Pretzel Day. Save your dollar and get a free pretzel!

Wetzel’s Pretzels

Visit Wetzel’s Pretzels any time between 3 p.m. and closing to get a free pretzel (regularly $4.59) without any purchase. If you’re craving a larger pretzel on National Pretzel Day, you can also pay extra to upgrade your pretzel.

If your plans are to enjoy your day at home on National Pretzel day but still want to partake in the festivities, you can also make homemade soft pretzels with simple ingredients you’ll probably have in your pantry like eggs, salt, water, butter, flour, yeast, baking soda, and sugar!