By Michele Coyle, For Abington News
At the Dunkin’ on Route 18 in Abington, holiday spirit doesn’t just arrive on the calendar — it shows up in the donut case.
For nearly 20 years, Heather Seppala has been part of the Dunkin’ team, currently working at the shop located at 937 Bedford Street. But it was during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic that Seppala helped create something that would become a lasting local tradition.
In the spring of 2020, just ahead of Easter, Seppala came up with the idea of offering DIY donut decorating kits — a small, hands-on activity meant to give families something fun to do together during an uncertain time.
“We wanted to give people something they could do together,” she said.
The response was immediate.
Since that first Easter, the Abington Dunkin’ has sold more than 5,000 donut kits, with each holiday bringing new themes, colors, and designs. The kits — complete with frosting, sprinkles, and toppings — quickly became popular with families looking to celebrate in a creative, screen-free way.
“They go fast,” Seppala said. “People love them.”
At a time when many Dunkin’ shops are scaling back their store-made offerings, the Rt. 18 Dunkin’ has doubled down.
Inside the shop, the donut case changes with the seasons, thanks in part to team members like Jose, who prepares and decorates the donuts each day. Whether it’s a spider donut for Halloween or a festive holiday design, the decorations add personality and color to the everyday coffee stop.
Halloween brings the popular Spooky Dozen, featuring seasonal favorites like the spider donut. At Christmas, customers look forward to the Jolly Dozen, while other holidays inspire equally bright and creative assortments.
Ahead of St. Patrick’s Day, the donut case recently featured leprechaun hat donuts, green-frosted treats, and rainbow-themed designs — turning an ordinary visit for coffee into a festive moment.
For many residents, these donuts have become more than just a treat.
“It’s just a great way for families to come together,” Seppala said.
As the next round of Easter decorating kits approaches, one thing remains clear: what began as a small idea during a difficult time has grown into a meaningful tradition — one that continues to bring smiles to Abington, one donut at a time.
