National Hamburger Day brings some of the best deals of the year on burgers at popular chains across the country. On May 28, customers can enjoy offers like $0.01 burgers at Wendy’s when making any other purchase, and buy-one-get-one deals on Stackburgers at Dairy Queen. McDonald’s, Burger King, and others are also joining in with their own exclusive promotions.

For anyone craving a juicy burger without overspending, National Hamburger Day is the perfect time to find limited-time savings. Plenty of well-known restaurants announce deals just for this day, letting everyone easily grab their favorite burgers at a fraction of the regular price.

Those interested in taking advantage of these offers can check out details from major chains, including recent deals at Wendy’s, Dairy Queen, Burger King, and more.

National Hamburger Day Deals: Where to Find the Best Burger Discounts in 2025

What Is National Hamburger Day?

National Hamburger Day is an annual event that highlights the popularity of burgers across the United States. The celebration includes deals at major burger chains and encourages people to enjoy classics like cheeseburgers and beef patties with traditional toppings.

History and Significance

The hamburger traces back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with roots often linked to German immigrants who brought over ground meat recipes. The modern American hamburger, served in a bun, quickly became a staple at diners and drive-ins. Over time, it evolved into a symbol of American fast food culture.

National Hamburger Day was created to honor the hamburger’s role in American life and culture. Restaurants and chains use the day to offer special deals, attracting burger fans nationwide. It has grown into a widely observed unofficial food holiday.

The celebration showcases the hamburger’s impact on American dining habits and emphasizes its continued popularity, highlighted by consumer demand for both traditional and innovative takes on the classic sandwich.

When National Hamburger Day Is Celebrated

National Hamburger Day takes place each year on May 28.

Restaurants nationwide participate by offering promotions and giveaways tied to the event. In 2025, major fast food chains like Wendy’s and Burger King offered notable deals such as 1-cent burgers or free burgers with a purchase.

The day is widely recognized, even though it is not an official federal holiday. Both small local restaurants and large national chains take part in celebrating burgers.

Traditional Hamburger Ingredients

The classic hamburger centers around a grilled beef patty served on a bun. A typical build includes lettuce, onions, and tomato, providing crunch and freshness. Cheese slices—often American or cheddar—are a popular addition and make the burger a cheeseburger.

Other common ingredients include pickles and condiments such as ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise. Restaurants may use variations, but these staples form the basis of most traditional hamburgers.

Presentation can differ by region or restaurant, but the foundational combination of bun, beef patty, cheese, lettuce, and onions has remained consistent. Some prefer additional toppings or specialty sauces, but the essentials have made the hamburger an enduring favorite.

Top National Hamburger Day Deals and Promotions

Many major burger chains celebrate National Hamburger Day with special promotions, limited-time discounts, and free add-ons. These offers often include both in-store and app-exclusive deals at well-known fast-food and casual restaurants.

Popular Restaurant Offers

Wendy’s is offering a 1-cent burger promotion starting on National Hamburger Day, which runs through June 1. Customers can get a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger for just a penny with any purchase through the Wendy’s app.

Burger King is running multiple deals for its Royal Perks members. These include $1 Whopper or Original Chicken Sandwiches and buy-one-get-one-free deals through the Burger King app.

Red Robin offers discounts on classics like the Gourmet Cheeseburger, while Smashburger highlights their Founder's Burger and Signature Stackburgers with special pricing.

Shake Shack sometimes launches a special promo code such as “GOBURGER” to redeem a free or discounted ShackBurger with an app order.

Exclusive App and Membership Deals

Many fast-food chains release exclusive deals for mobile app users and loyalty program members. Burger King’s Royal Perks members benefit from additional digital-only promotions, such as a free Whopper with purchase or early access to limited items.

Wendy’s app users can redeem special pricing on select menu items, including their limited-time Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger offer, which is only available through the app with a qualifying purchase.

McDonald’s frequently gives app-exclusive offers, including discounts on Big Macs and bundles that can be accessed directly from the McDonald’s app.

Shake Shack’s loyalty program also periodically features app-only specials, including discounted ShackBurgers and complimentary sides when participating locations run digital campaigns.

Free Burgers and Complimentary Add-ons

Some restaurants provide free burgers or add-ons with qualifying purchases on National Hamburger Day. Burger King is known for giving Royal Perks users a free cheeseburger or bacon cheeseburger with purchase.

Wendy’s has a near-free burger deal this year, while other places like Friendly’s or Wahlburgers sometimes include a free All-American Cheeseburger with a dine-in meal. Shake Shack may offer a free ShackBurger when using a special promo code in their app during the promotion period.

Dairy Queen, Arby’s, and Buffalo Wild Wings also occasionally participate by offering a free Signature Stackburger, Original Chicken Sandwich, or burger add-ons as part of their day’s promotion. Buffalo Wild Wings highlights a burger-and-side combo at reduced prices for the holiday.

Limited-Time Discounts and Promo Codes

Limited-time promo codes and flash deals appear widely throughout National Hamburger Day. Shake Shack often activates a promo code like “GOBURGER” for customers to redeem a free ShackBurger with their online or app order.

Burger King releases special codes on their app for $1 Whoppers or extra loyalty points. Smashburger and Red Robin promote short-term markdowns on the Triple Bacon Cheeseburger or Gourmet Cheeseburger.

Participating Wahlburgers locations may send out email offers with promo codes for discounted meals or complimentary menu upgrades. Several chains use social media and email lists to announce 100 Days of Savings or other one-day events focused on burger deals.

How to Make the Most of National Hamburger Day

National Hamburger Day brings plenty of ways to enjoy discounted or free food at popular burger chains and celebrate with friends and family. Smart shoppers and burger lovers can maximize the experience by knowing where to find deals, how to leverage loyalty rewards, and even creating their own barbecue events at home.

Tips for Finding the Best Local Deals

The first step is to keep an eye on major fast food chains and their apps or websites. Many national brands like Wendy’s and McDonald’s offer special deals, such as Wendy’s 1 cent burgers with any purchase or Burger King rewards for their Royal Perks members.

Signing up for emails and downloading restaurant apps allows users to receive notifications on limited-time promotions. Some deals, like Shake Shack’s free ShackBurger with a $10 spend, require activation through app offers or loyalty programs.

Checking local neighborhood spots is also important. Local diners, grills, or craft burger places often announce one-day discounts or freebies on social media. Creating a quick list of places offering the best deals helps maximize savings without missing out.

Leveraging Rewards Programs and Loyalty Offers

Rewards programs play a crucial role in stacking up savings and perks. Most burger chains provide extra discounts or free food for their loyalty or royalty members, such as exclusive in-app offers, bonus points, or even a complimentary burger.

Burger King’s Royal Perks, Wendy’s Rewards, and McDonald’s App offer unique burger day bonuses. Grubhub+ and other food delivery services sometimes feature limited-time rewards, like free delivery or exclusive burger discounts on National Hamburger Day.

Users should remember to activate offers ahead of time and check for any minimum purchase requirements. It’s important to combine deals when possible (such as stacking a reward with a limited promotional price) to maximize the benefit. Always double-check expiration dates to avoid missing out.

Hosting a Home Barbecue Celebration

Those who prefer a more personal celebration can host a home barbecue with friends and family. Grilling burgers at home allows complete control over ingredients, cooking styles, and toppings, which is ideal for accommodating different tastes or dietary needs.

Preparation is key for a successful barbecue. Gather everything needed ahead of time—buns, a variety of cheeses, fresh toppings, condiments, and quality meat or plant-based patties. Offer an array of sides like grilled vegetables, chips, or salads. A simple checklist can streamline shopping.

Barbecues are a great way to create good times and lasting memories, especially when paired with themed games or music. Encourage guests to bring their favorite burger toppings or sides for a festive, collaborative meal.