Our youngest daughter, Kynlee, turned 14 this past Friday. And like most 14 year old girls, she knew exactly what she wanted to spend the day doing….collecting her freebies. It just so happened to be her HOCO weekend (see last week’s article to find out when your high schooler’s HOCO week is) so her birthday party will be next weekend.
And while it seems that ‘kids these days’ have lofty birthday ideas, this activity doesn’t come with a big price tag. One of the most fun traditions popping up in cities everywhere, including ours, is taking a “birthday freebie tour.” Many local and chain businesses offer complimentary treats to celebrate your special day, and turning it into a mini adventure with your kids can create lasting memories.
This year, we decided to take a drive around town and scoop up some birthday goodies, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of the day. We started with a pick-me-up at 7 Brew Drive-Thru Coffee, where the birthday girl was treated to a fun, colorful drink of choice, no app required. We pulled up, told the “Brewista” what drink she wanted, and next thing we knew we had her free drink and were driving off.
Next stop was Nothing Bundt Cakes, where Kynlee picked out her favorite ‘bundtlet’; sweet, simple, and oh-so-delicious. This store does require you to use the app so make sure to download it and enter your birthday several days before you plan on using it. We, however, did not have the app with her birthday listed a few days prior to visiting so we went in and asked what we should do and they gave her a free dessert anyway. Their staff was so kind for making her feel special that I went ahead and purchased one for me too.
Of course, no birthday is complete without cookies, so we headed to Crumbl Cookie for a giant treat with sprinkles to match her smile. We did have the app downloaded with her birthday listed and she received her free cookie of choice – semi-sweet chocolate chip. Again, the staff was happy to help her figure out how to get her special treat for free.
And because we had worked up an appetite throughout this adventure, we swung by Chick-fil-A for her free birthday meal (using their app).
Each stop wasn’t just about collecting goodies; it was about the laughter, the car rides with music playing too loud, and the fun of choosing what to try first.
After the homecoming football game, we celebrated with dinner at one of her favorite local restaurants, 86 Forks, where she got to finish her birthday with a free dessert of her choice. Watching her choose, laugh, and soak in the attention reminded me that it’s not the price tag on the experience, but the moments shared that make birthdays unforgettable.
If you’re looking for a new tradition, map out your own “birthday freebie tour.” Not only will your kids love it, but it’s also a fun way to bond and explore your city together. And here’s a tip: don’t just save this idea for your kids—parents, do it for your birthday too! After all, who wouldn’t enjoy a day of treats, laughter, and making memories without spending much at all?
Tips for Parents
If you’re ready to plan your own birthday freebie adventure, here are a few tips:
Sign up ahead of time—many rewards programs need you in their system before your birthday.
Check expiration dates—some freebies are good for just the day, others for a whole month.
Map your route—group stops by area to save time (and gas).
Bring the kids—they’ll love the excitement, and it’s a fun way to teach them about planning, organization, and gratitude.
Don’t forget yourself—parents deserve a free birthday cookie or coffee too!
Birthdays are about more than cake and candles. They’re about connection. And sometimes, the simplest adventures, like driving around town picking up freebies, become the stories your family will treasure for years.
