A perfectly stacked gourmet hamburger with a glossy brioche bun, vibrant lettuce, juicy tomato, melted cheese, and a glistening patty, surrounded by fresh herbs and artisanal fries

National Hamburger Day is celebrated every year on May 28 to honor one of America’s most iconic and beloved foods—the hamburger. This day also marks the end of National Burger Month and the beginning of the summer grilling season.

Quick Facts

  • When is it? May 28
  • Tagged as: Food, Celebration, Summer BBQ
  • What’s the hashtag? #NationalHamburgerDay
  • When was it founded? Around 2010
  • Who founded it? Unknown

History of National Hamburger Day

The history of the hamburger traces back to Hamburg, Germany, where minced meat patties were popular. However, the modern hamburger as we know it was likely created in the United States. Several stories claim its invention, including Charlie Nagreen in 1885, who placed a meatball between slices of bread for convenience at a fair, and Louis Lassen in 1900, who served grilled beef between toast. Over time, the hamburger evolved into a cultural icon and a staple of fast food.

Timeline

  • 1885: Charlie Nagreen invents the hamburger at a fair in Wisconsin.
  • 1921: White Castle becomes the first major fast-food chain to serve hamburgers.
  • 1940: McDonald’s opens its first restaurant and popularizes burgers worldwide.
  • 2019: Burger King launches the plant-based Impossible Burger globally.

Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)

YearMonth and DateDay
2025May 28Wednesday
2026May 28Thursday
2027May 28Friday
2028May 28Sunday
2029May 28Monday
2030May 28Tuesday

Observed

National Hamburger Day is observed by enjoying burgers at home or at your favorite restaurant. Many people fire up their grills to create unique burger recipes or take advantage of special deals offered by restaurants.

Fun Facts About Hamburgers

  • Americans consume over 50 billion hamburgers annually.
  • McDonald’s sells 75 burgers every second worldwide.
  • The world’s largest burger weighed 2,566 pounds, created in Germany in 2017.

Quiz

  1. Who is credited with inventing the hamburger in Wisconsin?
  2. What fast-food chain was first to serve hamburgers in 1921?
  3. How many burgers does McDonald’s sell per second?

(Answers: Charlie Nagreen; White Castle; 75)

FAQs

Q: Why is National Hamburger Day celebrated on May 28?
A: It marks the end of National Burger Month and celebrates summer grilling traditions.

Q: Who invented the hamburger?
A: The invention is debated, but notable claims include Charlie Nagreen (1885) and Louis Lassen (1900).

Q: What are some variations of hamburgers?
A: Variations include veggie burgers, chicken burgers, salmon burgers, and plant-based options like the Impossible Burger.

Importance of National Hamburger Day

This day highlights the cultural significance of hamburgers as a symbol of American cuisine and innovation. It also brings people together to enjoy a universally loved dish.

Related

  • National Cheeseburger Day (September 18)
  • National Sandwich Day (November 3)
  • National BBQ Day (May)