National Burrito Day is celebrated on the first Thursday of April each year, which means the exact date changes annually. It honors the burrito, a beloved dish of savory fillings wrapped in a soft flour tortilla.
The day is one of many informal food holidays that give fans a reason to enjoy a favorite dish. For the burrito, it has also become a popular occasion for restaurants to run deals, making it as much about savings as about celebration.
When is National Burrito Day?
National Burrito Day is tied to the first Thursday of April rather than a fixed date, so it moves from year to year. Because it lands on a weekday, it is easy to fold into a lunch or dinner outing.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Thursday, April 2 |
| 2027 | Thursday, April 1 |
| 2028 | Thursday, April 6 |
What the day celebrates
The star of the day is the burrito itself. In its familiar form, a burrito is a large flour tortilla folded around fillings that can include seasoned meat or beans, rice, cheese, salsa, and vegetables. Its portability and endless variety have made it a favorite for quick meals, and the day is a chance to appreciate that versatility, whether you prefer a classic bean-and-cheese version or a fully loaded creation.
A little background
The burrito has roots in Mexican cuisine, and versions of it became widely popular across the United States, especially in the American Southwest and in the fast-casual dining boom. National Burrito Day grew alongside that popularity as an unofficial celebration. Like many modern food holidays, it is embraced by restaurants and food fans rather than established by any government body.
How people celebrate
Celebrations are casual and centered on eating:
- Grabbing a burrito from a favorite local spot or chain.
- Making burritos at home and customizing the fillings.
- Looking out for deals, since many restaurants offer discounts, combo specials, or free burritos with a purchase.
- Sharing burrito photos and recommendations on social media.
The takeaway
National Burrito Day is a fun, informal food holiday on the first Thursday of April. Whether you celebrate by trying a new spot, cooking at home, or hunting down a deal, the day is simply an excuse to enjoy one of the world’s most customizable meals.
Burrito varieties to try
Part of the fun of the day is exploring how many forms a burrito can take. A handful of popular styles include:
| Style | What makes it distinct |
|---|---|
| Breakfast burrito | Filled with eggs, cheese, and morning favorites. |
| Bean and cheese | A simple, classic vegetarian option. |
| Wet burrito | Served smothered in sauce and cheese, eaten with a fork. |
| Burrito bowl | The same fillings served in a bowl without the tortilla. |
With so many options, National Burrito Day is easy to tailor to any taste or diet, from a hearty meat-filled wrap to a light vegetarian bowl. That variety is a big reason the humble burrito has earned a day of its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Burrito Day?
It is observed on the first Thursday of April, so the date changes each year; in 2026 it falls on April 2.
Is National Burrito Day the same date every year?
No. Because it is tied to the first Thursday of April, the calendar date shifts annually.
What is a burrito?
A burrito is a Mexican-inspired dish of fillings such as beans, rice, meat, and cheese wrapped in a soft flour tortilla.
Are there deals on National Burrito Day?
Yes. Many restaurants and chains commonly offer burrito discounts, buy-one-get-one deals, or freebies.
Is National Burrito Day an official holiday?
No. It is an informal food holiday celebrated by fans and restaurants, not a public holiday.