national-cheeseburger-day-september-18

National Cheeseburger Day September 18

Have you ever bitten into a juicy cheeseburger and wondered about its origins or why we dedicate a whole day to celebrating it? National Cheeseburger Day, observed every September 18, is not just another food holiday; it's a nod to an iconic American culinary invention that has captured hearts and taste buds around the globe. From its humble beginnings in a Pasadena cafe to becoming a staple at fast-food giants like McDonald's and A&W, the cheeseburger's journey is as rich and layered as its ingredients. This day isn't merely about indulging in delicious deals and discounts; it's a tribute to innovation, tradition, and the simple pleasures that a slice of cheese added to a hamburger patty can bring. So, as we gear up to celebrate, let's take a moment to appreciate the cheeseburger's savory history and its role in American culture.

Key Takeaway

National Cheeseburger Day is celebrated on September 18 in the United States and is believed to have started as a marketing promotion by restaurants and burger chains in the late 20th century.
The cheeseburger is a variation of the hamburger, adding a slice of cheese on top of the patty, and gained widespread popularity in the post-World War II era, with the A&W Root Beer Drive-In being the first franchised restaurant to sell cheeseburgers in 1940.

Timeline

1924
First Cheeseburger
Lionel Sternberger, a fry cook at his father’s sandwich shop in Pasadena, California, is said to have invented the cheeseburger.
1935
Cheeseburger Trademark
Louis Ballast of the Humpty Dumpty Drive-In in Denver, Colorado, trademarks the term ‘cheeseburger’.
1984
First Cheeseburger Day
The first unofficial Cheeseburger Day is celebrated in Denver, Colorado.
2006
National Cheeseburger Day
The U.S. Senate officially declares September 18 as National Cheeseburger Day.

Day Activities

  1. Kick off National Cheeseburger Day with a bang by starting your day at a local diner that's known for its mouthwatering cheeseburgers. Many joints roll out the red carpet with breakfast cheeseburger specials, combining the best of both worlds: a hearty breakfast and the classic cheeseburger taste.

  2. Midday, why not embark on a cheeseburger crawl? Gather your foodie friends and hit up several renowned burger spots in town. Compare notes on the juiciest, cheesiest, and most innovative burgers out there. It's a great way to discover hidden gems and see who truly reigns supreme in the cheeseburger domain.

  3. Cap off the celebration by attending a cheeseburger-themed cookout or event. Many communities host competitions where local chefs and backyard grill masters showcase their take on the perfect cheeseburger. It's a fantastic opportunity to mingle, sample a variety of styles, and maybe even pick up a few grilling tips to elevate your own burger game.

Interesting Facts

1. Origin Mystery

National Cheeseburger Day's beginnings are shrouded in mystery, likely starting as a late 20th-century marketing ploy.

2. Cheeseburger Evolution

A cheeseburger is a hamburger's richer cousin, made indulgent with a slice of cheese atop the beef patty.

3. Historic First Bite

The 1920s saw the cheeseburger's debut in Pasadena, California, at the Rite Spot cafe, setting a tasty precedent.

4. Post-War Popularity Surge

After World War II, the cheeseburger's fame skyrocketed, becoming a staple in American cuisine and culture.

5. Celebratory Deals

On September 18, eateries celebrate National Cheeseburger Day with mouthwatering deals, making it a day foodies eagerly await.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating American culinary innovation: National Cheeseburger Day is a testament to American ingenuity in the kitchen. From its humble beginnings in the 1920s, the cheeseburger has become an iconic symbol of American cuisine. This day gives us a chance to appreciate how a simple addition of cheese to a hamburger can transform it into a culinary masterpiece that's celebrated worldwide. Who would've thought that a slice of cheese could make such a big difference? Well, it did, and now we've got a whole day to honor this delicious invention.

  • Excuse for indulgence: Let's be real, we all love a good excuse to indulge in something tasty, and National Cheeseburger Day provides the perfect reason. On this day, restaurants and burger joints roll out the red carpet for cheeseburger lovers with mouthwatering deals and specials. It's a day when counting calories takes a back seat to savoring every juicy, cheesy bite. So, why not give in to temptation and celebrate with a cheeseburger (or two) in hand? After all, it's not just about eating; it's about celebrating a piece of culinary history.

  • Community and deals: There's something about food that brings people together, and National Cheeseburger Day is no exception. This day is not just about enjoying a cheeseburger; it's about the community and shared experiences. Friends and families gather, debates over the best cheeseburger in town reignite, and social media buzzes with cheesy goodness. Plus, with all the deals and freebies up for grabs, it's a win-win for everyone involved. Whether you're a die-hard cheeseburger fan or just looking for a tasty bargain, this day has got you covered.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
SEPTEMBER 18 2022
SEPTEMBER 18 2023
SEPTEMBER 18 2024
SEPTEMBER 18 2025
SEPTEMBER 18 2026
SEPTEMBER 18 2027
SEPTEMBER 18 2028

FAQ

What day is National Cheeseburger Day at McDonald's?

UPDATED: September 15, 2023 at 4:19 p.m. McDonald's, Wendy's, Burger King and other popular fast food chains are offering incredible deals for upcoming National Cheeseburger Day on Sept. 18.

What is Wendy's doing for National Cheeseburger Day?

Sabrina has been with PEOPLE since 2021. National Hamburger Day is almost a week long at Wendy's. From May 28 (the actual food holiday) through June 2, the fast food chain is handing out Jr. Bacon Cheeseburgers for 1 cent when customers make a purchase.

What is the Burger King deal on September 18?

Burger King Monday (Sept. 18): You can get a free cheeseburger through the Royal Perks rewards program with the purchase of $1 or more. Tuesday (Sept. 19): Free Whopper Jr.

Who is honoring National Cheeseburger Day?

In honor of National Cheeseburger Day on Sept. 18, fast-food chains including McDonald's, Wendy's and Burger King (among others) are offering deals and discounts on their signature cheeseburgers. And, in some cases, those same offers are being extended to customers for several days afterward.