Who doesn’t love candy? From chocolates and gummies to hard candies and lollipops, there’s a treat for every taste. While candy isn’t usually free, there are ways to score some without paying a cent. If you’ve ever wondered how to get free candy, you’re in luck. Here are a few creative and simple ways to indulge in your favorite sweets without spending any money.
1. Participate in Giveaways and Promotions
Many candy brands and stores offer free candy as part of a promotional event or giveaway. Keep an eye out for these opportunities, which often take place on social media platforms or company websites. Here’s how to get in on the action:
- Follow Candy Brands on Social Media: Candy companies like Hershey’s, Mars, and Nestlé often run contests or giveaways on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Follow them to be notified of these sweet opportunities.
- Sign Up for Newsletters: Many candy brands or stores offer newsletters with updates on sales, special promotions, and occasionally, free sample offers. Signing up for these emails could lead to receiving coupons or free candy offers.
- Watch for Free Sample Promotions: Websites like SampleSource, FreeSamples.org, and PinchMe offer free product samples, which can sometimes include candy. You simply need to sign up, answer a few questions, and wait for your free samples to arrive.
2. Attend Events and Festivals
Candy giveaways are often a part of local events, festivals, and fairs. If you’re looking for a sweet deal, here’s where to look:
- Candy Trade Shows: Large events like the Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago offer candy manufacturers the chance to showcase their products, often handing out free samples to attendees. While these events are typically for industry professionals, some events are open to the public, and many give out free samples.
- Halloween and Holiday Events: Halloween is a prime time for candy giveaways, with trick-or-treating being the most obvious example. But other holiday events, such as Christmas parades or Easter egg hunts, often have free candy for attendees as well.
- Grand Openings: When a new candy store, ice cream shop, or supermarket opens, they may hand out free samples to encourage customers to try their products. These events are usually advertised on social media, so keep an eye out for new openings in your area.
3. Use Free Samples Websites
Several websites specialize in offering free samples of various products, including candy. Some of the most popular free sample platforms include:
- BzzAgent: After signing up and completing surveys, you may be eligible to receive free candy samples and other products to review.
- Smiley360: Similar to BzzAgent, Smiley360 offers free samples of products, including candy, to people who are willing to share their honest opinions.
- Influenster: This platform lets you earn free candy samples by completing tasks, surveys, and sharing your feedback with others. Brands often partner with Influenster to send samples to potential customers.
By joining these platforms and completing simple tasks, you could soon find free candy arriving at your doorstep!
4. Check Out Loyalty Programs
Loyalty programs are a great way to earn points and rewards, including free candy. Here’s how to use them to score sweet treats:
- Candy Store Loyalty Cards: Stores like Walgreens, CVS, and 7-Eleven have loyalty programs where you can earn points on purchases. Over time, these points can be redeemed for free candy or other products.
- Grocery Store Rewards Programs: Major grocery chains often run promotions where you can earn points or discounts that lead to free products, including candy. For example, stores like Kroger or Safeway may offer “free item” coupons once you’ve earned enough points.
- Credit Card Rewards: Some credit cards offer rewards points for every dollar spent, which can later be redeemed for gift cards or free products, including candy. Check with your credit card provider to see if you can use your points for sweets.
5. Look for “Free Samples” Sections in Stores
Some larger supermarkets, drugstores, or warehouse clubs will have a “free samples” section in their store. In these areas, candy brands often provide small sample bags of their latest products for customers to try before purchasing.
- Supermarkets and Bulk Stores: If you frequent stores like Costco or Whole Foods, check out their free sample stations, where candy is sometimes featured alongside other snacks and beverages.
- Health Food Stores: Health-focused grocery stores may offer free samples of new candy products, particularly those marketed as healthier or organic versions of traditional candy bars.
6. Join Loyalty Programs for Specific Candy Brands
Certain candy companies offer loyalty programs where you can earn points and get free candy. Brands like Skittles, M&M’s, and Reese’s occasionally offer special rewards and free samples for members of their loyalty programs. Signing up for these can ensure you don’t miss out on any free candy offers.
7. Trade or Swap Candies
A creative way to get free candy is through trade or candy swapping. Many communities, online forums, or social media groups have “free stuff” sections where people exchange snacks, including candy. You can often find others willing to swap candy they have in abundance for something you might have extra of.
- Facebook Groups: Join local buy/sell/trade groups or candy-specific swapping groups. You might be able to trade an item you no longer want for some free candy.
- Candy Exchange Events: Some communities host candy exchange events, especially around Halloween or Christmas. These events allow you to trade excess candy with others.
Conclusion
While getting free candy may take a bit of creativity, it’s absolutely possible with the right resources and strategies. Whether it’s through promotions, attending local events, or joining loyalty programs, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy your favorite sweets without spending a dime. Keep an eye out for giveaways, sign up for sample sites, and participate in local events—and before you know it, you’ll be enjoying a stash of free candy!