Beef It or Leave It: Wild Ways to Celebrate National Cheeseburger Day in America

Americans eat around 50 billion burgers every year, and a big chunk of those are cheeseburgers!

Every September 18th, America honors one of its most iconic, juicy, and melt-in-your-mouth inventions—the cheeseburger. That’s right, it’s National Cheeseburger Day, the one day when calories don’t count (okay, they still do—but we all agree to ignore them).

The exact origin of the cheeseburger is debated, but many credit Lionel Sternberger for adding a slice of American cheese to a hamburger in Pasadena, California, back in the 1920s

Join a Cheeseburger Challenge (If You’re Brave)

Many burger restaurants run food challenges on National Cheeseburger Day. Think triple-decker cheeseburgers, giant buns, or spicy jalapeño overloads. Winners usually get their meal for free—or at least bragging rights for life.

Check your city’s food scene or call your favorite burger spot and ask if they’re offering a challenge or competition this year.

Get the Best Cheeseburger Day Deals & Offers

Here’s the best part—burger chains across America often roll out mouthwatering deals for National Cheeseburger Day. Here’s what to look out for (check their apps or websites on September 18 for exact details):

Likely Deals for 2025:

• McDonald’s – $0.50 Double Cheeseburger (with app purchase)
• Wendy’s – Free Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger with any app order
• Burger King – $1 Whopper or BOGO cheeseburgers for Royal Perks members
• Shake Shack – Buy one, get one free on classic cheeseburgers
• Sonic Drive-In – Half-price cheeseburgers after 5 PM
• Dairy Queen – Cheeseburger + small fries combo for under $5

Pro Tip: Sign up for loyalty apps or email newsletters in advance to access the deals.