National Burrito Day
National Burrito Day is a fun, unofficial holiday that celebrates one of the most beloved Mexican dishes—the burrito. This day is all about indulging in these delicious, tortilla-wrapped meals filled with a variety of ingredients, from beans and rice to meats, veggies, and sauces. Whether you’re a fan of classic burritos or enjoy more modern twists, National Burrito Day is the perfect excuse to enjoy this versatile dish.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: The first Thursday of April each year. In 2025, it falls on April 3.
- Tagged as: Food, Fun, Mexican Cuisine
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalBurritoDay
- When was it founded?: Exact date unknown, but burritos have been celebrated for decades.
- Who founded it?: The origin is unclear, but it’s widely embraced by food lovers and restaurants alike.
History of National Burrito Day
The history of the burrito itself stretches back to at least the 19th century in northern Mexico. The term burrito—meaning “little donkey” in Spanish—was first mentioned in 1895 in the Dictionary of Mexicanisms. It’s believed that the name comes from the way burritos resemble the packs carried by donkeys. The dish gained popularity in the U.S. during the 1930s when restaurants like El Cholo Spanish Café in Los Angeles began offering them on their menus.
Over time, burritos evolved from simple meat-and-cheese fillings to include rice, beans, guacamole, and sour cream—creating what we now know as “mission-style” burritos. Today, National Burrito Day celebrates this rich history and the many variations of burritos enjoyed worldwide.
Timeline
- 16th Century: Early versions of tortillas filled with beans and meats appear.
- 1930s: Burritos make their debut on U.S. menus at El Cholo Spanish Café in Los Angeles.
- 1940s: Street vendors in Ciudad Juárez sell burritos to schoolchildren.
- 1961: Mission-style burritos are born in San Francisco.
- 1993: Chipotle opens its first restaurant, popularizing customizable burritos.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April | 3 | Thursday |
| 2026 | April | 2 | Thursday |
| 2027 | April | 1 | Thursday |
| 2028 | April | 6 | Thursday |
| 2029 | April | 5 | Thursday |
Observed
National Burrito Day is observed with food deals at popular chains like Chipotle, QDOBA, and Taco Bell. Many people also celebrate by making their own burritos at home or hosting burrito parties with friends. It’s a day to appreciate Mexican cuisine and experiment with different fillings and flavors.
Fun Facts About Burritos
- The word burrito means “little donkey” in Spanish.
- In Mexico, traditional burritos are smaller and often contain just two ingredients.
- The largest burrito ever made weighed over two tons!
- A deep-fried version of the burrito is called a chimichanga.
Quiz
- What does “burrito” mean in Spanish?
- Which city is credited with creating mission-style burritos?
- When is National Burrito Day celebrated?
- What restaurant popularized customizable burritos in the U.S.?
Answers:
- Little donkey
- San Francisco
- First Thursday of April
- Chipotle
FAQs
- Is National Burrito Day a real holiday?
Yes! While it’s not an official public holiday, it’s widely celebrated by food lovers across the U.S. - Are burritos originally from Mexico?
Yes, though modern Tex-Mex versions have evolved significantly from their Mexican roots. - Can I get deals on National Burrito Day?
Absolutely! Many restaurants offer discounts or special promotions on this day.
Importance of National Burrito Day
This day highlights not only a delicious dish but also the cultural fusion that has made Mexican cuisine so popular worldwide. It’s an opportunity to celebrate creativity in food while supporting local businesses that specialize in Mexican fare.
Related
- National Taco Day
- Cinco de Mayo
- National Quesadilla Day
- National Nachos Day
