How to snag free and discounted pretzels on National Pretzel Day in metro Phoenix

Bahar Anooshahr, Arizona Republic
·2 min read

This year National Pretzel Day takes place on Wednesday, April 26.

The origins of the pretzel are uncertain, but historians believe it was developed in Italy in the early Middle Ages as Lenten bread. The shape represents arms folded in prayer in a medieval way. The name comes either from bracellae, meaning little arms, or pretiola or little reward, which translates to bretzel or pretzel in German.

The holiday honoring the twisty treat was introduced in the major pretzel-producing state of Pennsylvania in 1983 and became official in 2003, businesses around the country now celebrate.

Metro Phoenix pretzel shops and restaurants are offering free or discounted knotted treats. Some only require that customers show up to receive their free pretzel, while others have more steps involved, including downloading the store's app or making other purchases.Here's where to score free and discounted pretzels today.

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Auntie Anne's has a deal for National Pretzel Day.
Auntie Anne's has a deal for National Pretzel Day.

Auntie Anne's

Auntie Anne's is offering a free original pretzel to those who download the app.

Details: Multiple locations around the Valley. auntieannes.com.

Wetzel's Pretzels

This favorite of celebrities, like Ben Affleck, Billie Eillish and Kim Kardashian, is giving away free original pretzels on National Pretzel Day from 3 p.m. to close. All the customers have to do is show up at one of their stores nationwide.Details: Multiple locations in the Valley. wetzels.com.

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Pretzelmaker

On April 26, customers will receive a free small bag of pretzel bites.

Details: 7611 West Thomas Road, Phoenix. 623-873-1540, pretzelmaker.com.

Culinary Dropout

Culinary Dropout invites customers to shoot a pretzel bite into a hoop. Whoever makes it can enjoy a free order of soft pretzels and provolone fondue.

Details: Multiple locations in the Valley. culinarydropout.com.

Brat Haus

Brat Haus is offering discounted small and large pretzels on April 26. Customers can receive half off a small pretzel with an entree purchase and half off a large pretzel with no purchase necessary.Details:  3622 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale. 480-947-4006, brathausaz.com.

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Reach the reporter at BAnooshahr@azcentral.com. Follow @banooshahr on Twitter.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: National Pretzel Day deals: Free, discounted pretzels in metro Phoenix