A sweet tradition returns! 

Harris Teeter is a supermarket chain that was founded in 1936 and offers a wide variety of groceries, like fruits, vegetables, meats and bakery items. 

Harris Teeter introduced their free cookie program in 1992 to enhance customer shopping experiences. The Harris Teeter mascot, Harry the Happy Dragon, has been the face of these cookies from the start, making kids and families feel welcome to enjoy this sweet treat.

Harris Teeter had removed their beloved cookies around the pandemic time, pausing the tradition for safety reasons. It’s been almost four years since they took them away. 

As of January 2024, they are back. 

Harris Teeter cashier Chada Amelel said, “I used to get the cookies when I was younger, and I completely forgot about them until I saw that they were back. Every time I see them I get nostalgia.” 

Even though these cookies are now labeled for kids, the return of this sweet tradition allows families to once again walk into the grocery store to the smell of freshly baked cookies. 

Although the free cookies are back, some long-term shoppers have noticed some changes in the cookies. 

Senior Aya Aani said, “ I liked the old cookies, they were softer and more enjoyable to eat.” 

Whether this is a result of adjustment or a deliberate change, the cookies continue to be a favorite for many shoppers.