National Hamburger Day is observed every year on May 28 in the United States. This unofficial food holiday celebrates one of the country’s most popular foods, the hamburger. It also helps wrap up National Burger Month and lands right as the summer grilling season begins, making it a natural excuse to fire up the grill.
When it is celebrated
The observance falls on May 28 each year. Its timing at the end of May connects it to the start of summer cookouts, when burgers are a common feature at backyard gatherings and holiday weekends.
Origin of the observance
The origin of National Hamburger Day itself is unclear. It is not tied to a clearly confirmed founder, organization, or first observance, which is common for many informal food holidays. What is well documented, if debated, is the history of the hamburger as a food.
History of the hamburger
The name traces back to Hamburg, Germany, where minced beef preparations known as Hamburg steaks were popular in the 19th century. German immigrants brought the idea to the United States, where it evolved from a knife-and-fork dish into the handheld sandwich known today. The precise origin is disputed, but the US Library of Congress recognizes Louis Lassen of Louis’ Lunch in New Haven, Connecticut, as having served an early hamburger sandwich around 1900. Many historians also point to the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis as a moment when the food gained wide popularity.
Ways to celebrate
- Grill hamburgers at home for family or friends.
- Visit a local burger spot you have wanted to try.
- Experiment with a new topping or homemade recipe.
- Try a vegetarian or plant-based burger for variety.
Quick facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | May 28 (annually) |
| Status | Unofficial food holiday |
| Name origin | Hamburg, Germany |
| Related | Caps off National Burger Month |
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Hamburger Day?
It is observed every year on May 28 in the United States.
Who founded National Hamburger Day?
The observance has no clearly confirmed founder or first observance.
Where does the hamburger's name come from?
From Hamburg, Germany, home of the minced-beef Hamburg steak.
Who made the first hamburger?
The origin is disputed; the US Library of Congress credits Louis Lassen of New Haven around 1900.
How do people celebrate?
Common ways include grilling burgers at home, trying a new burger spot, or cooking a favorite recipe.