Here’s Where to Get Free Stuff and Deals on Election Day
Election Day is finally here! To celebrate, we’ve found some freebies and deals you can enjoy on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Can’t find a freebie in your area? It’s not you. Technically, the Federal Election Commission bans any election-day incentives to vote when there’s a federal candidate on the ballot.
That’s why you’ll see offers that give something free to people who show up wearing their “I voted” sticker. It’s not the act that makes them eligible for the freebie — it’s the sticker. Get it? Slick.
And some companies have avoided the issue by offering freebies to everyone on Election Day — no vote required (but seriously, go vote).
Where to Get Your Election Day Freebies and Deals
We’ve rounded up plenty of places to snag freebies and deals on Election Day. Note: Due to social distancing restrictions, businesses may require you to wear a mask or to get your freebies to go.
1. Free Ride to the Polls
Need a ride to cast your vote? Lyft and Uber are providing free and discounted rides to the polls on Election Day.
Here’s how you can get cheap or free rides to vote.
2. Free Donut
Donut maker Krispy Kreme skirted the no-freebies rule and then upped the ante: Anyone can get one of their free glazed donuts just by visiting a Krispy Kreme location, and they’ll give you their own “I voted” sticker.
Note: The Krispy Kreme sticker is unlikely to be honored at any other place offering freebies for your “I voted” sticker.
3. Free Pastries
Is it a coincidence that McDonald’s is giving out one of its new bakery offerings (with the purchase of a coffee) starting on Election Day?
Maybe, but you can pick up a free apple fritter, blueberry muffin or cinnamon roll every day until Nov. 9.
4. Discounted Pizza
With locations in 17 states, Pieology Pizzeria is offering an Election Day deal: two 11-inch “Create Your Own” pizzas and a shareable dessert for $20.20.
5. Free Childcare
It could be a long wait at the polls, but don’t let cranky kids keep you from casting your vote.
KinderCare Education is offering families a free day of care for children 6 weeks to 12 years old at its 1,500-plus centers across the country. And the offer is good through the end of the year, in case you need a recovery day instead.
For military members, Care.com has partnered with Armed Services YMCA to also offer free child care — but be sure to reserve your four-hour spot ahead of time.
6. Free Sandwiches
Election day coincides with National Sandwich Day this year. (Can you believe it? So much to celebrate!)
So you have a few choices for getting your sammy fix after casting your vote:
- Jimmy John’s is offering a half-priced second sandwich when you buy one 8-inch or 16-inch sandwich online or in the Jimmy John’s app. The offer is available through Nov. 8 by using the promo code SAVEON2 at checkout.
- By joining the free McAlister’s Rewards loyalty program, you’ll receive a BOGO sandwich coupon on Nov. 3. You’ll need to download their app to get the coupon, which will be valid for two weeks.
- After the polls close in your area, Boston Market is serving up one free slider from its late-night menu. No purchase is necessary.
7. Discounts on Delivery
If you voted early and are avoiding the crowds or you voted today and just can’t take one more line, there’s always delivery.
As part of its Fueling the Vote campaign, Grubhub is offering exclusive perks from more than 30 of its most popular restaurant brands, including California Pizza Kitchen and BurgerFi. Check out the Grubhub or Seamless apps to find deals near you.
8. Discounted Margaritas
We get it, you might want a drink after this day is done (or half done — no judgments).
To help you celebrate or commiserate, Chili’s is offering its Presidente Margarita for $5 on Election Day.
And the restaurant is giving out free commemorative stickers — another one to add to your collection.
Lisa Rowan is a former writer at The Penny Hoarder. Staff writer/editor Tiffany Wendeln Connors updated this post for 2020.
