The hard work is finally over for students across Illinois.
As we shift into graduation season, food chains throughout the state are offering deals and freebies as a reward for those who worked so hard to reach the finish line.
From free gift cards to discounted catering, here’s a roundup of some of the best deals in Illinois.
Chipotle offers BOGO deals for graduates
From May 14-18, the first 10,000 customers to purchase $40 or more in graduation-themed gift cards at Chipotle.com/gift-cards will receive a BOGO entrée code. The offer is not available for in-restaurant purchases or through third-party sales channels, Chipotle told USA TODAY, and the BOGO will expire on June 30, 2026.
Free dessert at TGI Fridays
TGI Fridays is offering any graduating student a free dessert with the purchase of an entrée at participating locations nationwide from May 12 through June 15. Students must present a valid student ID to be eligible and cannot combine the offer with other promotions or coupons.
$10 gift cards at Buffalo Wild Wings
From now through June 21, Buffalo Wild Wings is offering any customer who purchases $50 worth of gift cards a $10 bonus gift card, with redemptions available June 22 through July 31.
Noodles & Company catering deals for grads
Why not cater your graduation celebration? Noodles & Company is offering 15% off any catering orders of $150 or more from May 6 to June 9. Use the code GRAD2026.
Pizza Hut graduate deal
From May 4 through June 22, Pizza Hut customers can score 10% off when they spend $45 or more on a single gift card transaction. The offer is only valid for online purchases at PizzaHutCard.Wolfe.com.
Graduate deals at P.F. Chang’s
P.F. Chang’s is offering deals for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and “graduation milestones”, according to a news release. From April 29 to June 23, two people can get a $89.99 five course meal, plus there is a gift card promotion where you buy $50 in gift cards and get a $10 bonus to use at a later date.
Red Robin’s catering deal for grads
Graduations usually bring huge gatherings with family and friends. That’s why Red Robin is offering a fun catering deal, which gives you 20% off all catering orders when using the code 26GRADS. The deal started April 15 and will end on July 12.
Dunkin’ May rewards
While Dunkin’ does not have any deals tied specifically to graduation, Dunkin’ Rewards members can earn exclusive, limited-time offers via the Dunkin’ app throughout May, including:
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Chipotle, TGI Fridays, more offer deals for 2026 Illinois graduates
Reporting by Hannah Hudnall and Gabe Hauari, Peoria Journal Star / Journal Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
