National Crunchy Taco Day

National Crunchy Taco Day celebrates the beloved crispy version of the traditional Mexican taco, featuring a hard-shell corn tortilla filled with various ingredients.

Quick Facts

When is it?: March 21st annually
Tagged as: Food Holiday, Mexican-American Cuisine
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalCrunchyTacoDay
When was it founded?: 1962
Who founded it?: Associated with Glen Bell’s founding of Taco Bell

History

The crunchy taco emerged as an American innovation of the traditional Mexican soft taco. While tacos originated in Mexico with soft corn tortillas, the crispy shell version gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century. Glen Bell popularized pre-fried taco shells through his restaurant chain Taco Bell, revolutionizing fast-food Mexican cuisine.

Timeline

1914: First English-language recipe for fried tacos appears
1962: Glen Bell opens first Taco Bell, featuring pre-fried shells
1964: First Taco Bell franchise opens in Torrance, California
2018: Over 7,000 Taco Bell locations worldwide

Dates by Next Year

Year	Date	Day
2025	March 21	Friday
2026	March 21	Saturday
2027	March 21	Sunday
2028	March 21	Monday
2029	March 21	Tuesday

Observed

The day is celebrated by enjoying crunchy tacos at restaurants or making them at home. Many establishments offer special deals and promotions.

Fun Facts About Crunchy Tacos

The name “taco” originated from Mexican silver miners’ term for gunpowder wrapped in paper
The largest taco ever made stretched over 335 feet long
White corn tortillas were the original shell type
Lebanese immigrants influenced modern taco preparation methods

Quiz

Q: What was the original inspiration for the name “taco”?
A: Miners’ gunpowder packets

FAQs

Are crunchy tacos authentic Mexican food?
No, they’re an American innovation
Why are they called “anglo tacos”?
Due to their American origins
What’s the best way to keep them crunchy?
Serve immediately after preparation

Importance of National Crunchy Taco Day

This celebration recognizes the cultural fusion of Mexican and American cuisines while honoring a beloved fast-food innovation that has become a staple of Tex-Mex cuisine.