A Burger King cheeseburger pictured as National Cheeseburger Day arrives Thursday, Sept. 18. Burger King
Cheeseburgers rank among the most loved foods in North America. On September 18, people celebrate National Cheeseburger Day, a tradition that comes only a few months after National Hamburger Day in May.
Hamburgers top the list of favourite American dishes, while cheeseburgers also hold a strong spot. Surveys show that nearly three out of four burger lovers enjoy adding cheese. Americans alone eat about 50 billion burgers every year.
Although the history of the cheeseburger’s origin is debated, several cities claim the title. Pasadena, California, tells the story of a teenage cook who served the first one more than a century ago. Louisville, Kentucky, also claims credit, saying the first “cheeseburger” appeared at Kaelin’s restaurant in 1934.
McDonald’s 50-Cent Double Cheeseburger
To mark the occasion, McDonald’s is offering its Double Cheeseburger for just 50 cents. The deal is available on September 18 through the McDonald’s app. The company said the same promotion last year ranked among its most popular offers.
Burger King Week of Deals
Burger King has a full week of offers through its Royal Perks program. Members can get a free bacon cheeseburger with a purchase of $1 or more on September 18. Other daily deals include a free Croissan’wich on September 17 and a free Whopper Jr. on September 19. The chain will continue offers through September 21, including a free chicken sandwich and cheeseburger on selected days.
White Castle Buy-One-Get-One
White Castle fans can claim a buy-one-get-one Cheese Slider deal from September 18 to September 21. Customers must use the code “SAYCHEESE” to redeem the offer.
Other Major Chains Join In
- DoorDash and Shake Shack: $9 off orders of $25 or more on September 18.
- Whataburger: Free fries or onion rings with the Bacon & Cheese Whataburger when ordered online or in the app.
- Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers: Free Original Double Steakburger with a purchase of $10 or more, valid September 18–21.
- Applebee’s: Classic handcrafted burgers plus fries for $8.99 on September 18.
- Red Robin: Big Yummm Burger Deal for $9.99, with bottomless side and drink.
- Wayback Burgers: $5 Classic Burgers available in-store, online, or through its app.
- Dairy Queen: Free Double Original Cheeseburger Stackburger with any $1 order, valid September 15–19 for Rewards members.
- Checkers & Rally’s: Big Buford burger for $3, available September 16–18.
- Portillo’s: 50% off one regular cheeseburger for Perks members, valid September 15–19.
- Ruby Tuesday: Discounted smashed burgers all day on September 18, including its American Smashed Burger, Mushroom Swiss, Loaded Guac, and Triple Smashed Burger options.
Why It Matters
National Cheeseburger Day is not tied to history but has grown into a fun and tasty annual tradition. Restaurants use the day to thank loyal customers and draw in new ones with discounts and specials. Whether it’s a fast-food chain or a sit-down restaurant, the deals give people a reason to enjoy one of the most classic comfort foods.
