Wendy’s Joins March Madness with Special Menu Items, Prizes, and Free Offer

March Madness 2026 officially begins on March 19 in the US, and college basketball fans across the country are finalizing brackets, hoping this year will be the year their bracket doesn’t bust. While basketball fans would be smart to plan for a few upsets, they’d also be wise to take advantage of a few of the limited-time deals and promos companies are running in celebration of the momentous sports occasion. Case in point, Wendy’s just announced some special March Madness offers that are sure to intrigue anyone looking to possibly earn some “freebies” while enjoying a bite from a favorite in the fast food industry. 

Wendy’s Launches Its Dunks Menu and Sweepstakes 

Inspired by the college basketball tournament, Wendy’s rolled out its Dunks Menu on March 16 on the Wendy’s website and app. Now, customers can go to either platform and order a chocolate or vanilla Frosty and pair it with Wendy’s signature fries. Then on March 23, the menu expands, allowing customers to pair a 6-piece nugget or 3-piece tender to dunk in “Wendy’s sauce roster.” Speaking on the new menu initiative, US Chief Marketing Officer for Wendy's, Lindsay Radkoski, stated: 

"March Madness is fueled by unforgettable dunks, and Wendy's is bringing that same energy with the most iconic dunk of all – Hot & Crispy Fries in a Classic Frosty. It's the signature play fans have known and loved for years, and this season we're turning up the excitement with even more crave-worthy ways to enjoy Wendy's all tournament long."

In addition to the Dunks Menu, Wendy’s is also debuting a Dunkstakes (sweepstakes). From March 16 to April 6, customers will automatically be entered into the Dunkstakes with the purchase of an item through the Dunks Menu via the Wendy’s App. Guests have the chance to win the grand prize of $100,000 cash, 10 cash prizes of $1,000, 25 pairs of dunk-inspired custom sneakers, or 500 Wendy's gift cards.

Wendy’s Has a Free March Madness Offer

In addition to what’s already been shared, Wendy’s is also prepared to give away some food for free, no purchase required. As part of the restaurant chain’s first Dunk for America offer, when the first dunk occurs during the 2026 NCAA Division I Women's Basketball National Championship game (airing Sunday, April 5, on ABC) or the 2026 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball National Championship Game (airing Monday, April 6, on TBS), a freebie will be unlocked for fans. Then on April 7, guests can visit a participating Wendy’s restaurant and redeem a “free OG dunk pairing.” That pairing being small Hot & Crispy Fries and a small chocolate or vanilla Frosty. 

Again, with all these offers being centered around March Madness 2026, they’re only here for a limited time. So make sure you take advantage of them while you can. 

Related: Most Likely Upsets in March Madness 2026 Men’s Tournament