A&W Restaurants started with a tiny root beer stand in 1919. Entrepreneur Roy W. Allen set up shop on the streets of Lodi, California, offering a new creamy and refreshing drink served in a frosty mug. It was a hot June day, so Allen thought his concoction would be the perfect accompaniment for the parade honoring the return of World War I Veterans.
Photo: A&W Restaurants
His root beer was a hit—a unique and tasty American beverage that has remained a symbol of celebration and camaraderie ever since.
And, to this day, the chain’s signature beverage is still made with real cane sugar and a proprietary blend of herbs, bark, spices and berries.
FREE Root Beer Float Giveaway
To celebrate National Root Beer Float Day, A&W Restaurants is giving customers a FREE small Root Beer Float on August 6, 2025 at participating locations — no purchase necessary.
The sweet giveaway is only available from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Limit one float per customer, while supplies last.
As a part of the celebration, the restaurant chain will also be collecting donations for Disabled American Veterans. There is also an opportunity to purchase a collector’s mug for $10, if you’re interested.
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