No free Slurpees at 7-Eleven on 7-11 this year because of coronavirus

Add another event to the long list of coronavirus cancellations: 7-Eleven Day.

The nation’s largest convenience store chain has announced that it’s canceling its in-store birthday celebration and Free Slurpee Day because of “the uncertainties associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The annual tradition has been held on July 11, aka 7/11, since 2002, 7-Eleven’s 75th birthday. It has been the company’s busiest day of the year, with millions of visitors, Marissa Jarratt, the chain’s senior vice president and chief marketing officer, said in a news release.

However, 7-Eleven isn’t cancelling free Slurpee drinks altogether. To help with social distancing, members of the free 7Rewards loyalty program will get a coupon for a free medium Slurpee redeemable once in July.

7-Eleven also plans to donate a million free meals to Feeding America, which is considered the largest domestic hunger-relief organization in the country.

“Gathering nine million of our closest friends in stores on one day just didn’t feel right, but I am heartened that we now have the opportunity to help the communities and neighborhoods that have been the lifeline of our business since 1927,” Jarratt said.

In July, there also will be deals on the 7NOW delivery app including $5 whole pizzas and a free Slurpee from July 7-11.