National Hamburger Day

Celebrated: May 28

The Burger That Built America

Fire up the grill and get ready to sink your teeth into one of the most iconic foods in American history—because May 28 is National Hamburger Day! Whether you’re a fan of the classic cheeseburger, a plant-based patty enthusiast, or someone who believes the messier, the better, this day is your official excuse to indulge. With Americans consuming over 50 billion burgers a year, it’s safe to say the hamburger isn’t just a meal—it’s a cultural phenomenon.

While the hamburger’s origins are a bit murky, its rise to fame is anything but. From humble beginnings as a simple beef patty between slices of bread to becoming the centerpiece of backyard barbecues and fast-food menus worldwide, the hamburger has secured its place in the culinary hall of fame. Its versatility allows for endless customization, catering to every palate and preference.

So, whether you're grilling up a gourmet creation or grabbing a quick bite from your favorite local joint, take a moment to appreciate the history and joy that comes with every bite of this beloved sandwich.

Burger Bytes: Juicy Tidbits About Hamburgers

A Nation of Burger Lovers: Americans consume over 50 billion burgers annually, averaging about three burgers per person each week.
Fast Food Frenzy: McDonald's sells approximately 75 burgers every second, highlighting the burger's dominance in the fast-food industry.
Global Variations: From Japan's rice bun burgers to India's spicy aloo tikki patties, the hamburger has been adapted to suit local tastes around the world.
Record-Breaking Buns: The world's largest hamburger weighed in at a whopping 777 pounds, showcasing the burger's potential for grandeur.
Beyond Beef: With the rise of plant-based diets, alternatives like the Impossible Burger and Beyond Meat have gained popularity, offering the burger experience without the meat.

From Hamburg to the Heartland: The Hamburger's Journey

The hamburger's story is a tapestry woven with various claims and innovations. While its name suggests German origins—specifically Hamburg, known for its quality beef—the transformation into the sandwich we know today is credited to American ingenuity.

One popular narrative attributes the first hamburger to Louis Lassen of Louis' Lunch in New Haven, Connecticut, who in 1900 reportedly served ground beef between slices of bread to accommodate a customer's rush. However, other accounts point to Charlie Nagreen of Seymour, Wisconsin, who in 1885 flattened a meatball between bread slices for easier consumption at a fair.

Regardless of its true origin, the hamburger gained national prominence at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair, where it captivated attendees and solidified its place in American cuisine. The subsequent rise of fast-food chains like White Castle in 1921 and McDonald's in 1940 propelled the hamburger into global stardom.

How to Celebrate National Hamburger Day

For Everyone:

Host a Burger Bash: Fire up the grill and invite friends and family over for a backyard cookout with all the fixings.
Go on a Burger Crawl: Visit your town’s top burger joints and try their signature creations—don’t forget to vote on your favorite!
DIY Burger Bar: Set up a build-your-own burger station with options for every taste and dietary need.
Spread the Love: Surprise a neighbor or coworker with a homemade burger or gift card to a local burger spot.

For Restaurant Owners:

Sizzle with Specials: Offer limited-time burgers, bundle deals, or a “Buy One, Get One Burger” promo to draw in crowds.
Host a Burger Battle: Let customers design their dream burger and vote on the winner—it’s a great way to engage your audience.

Grill Up Food Safety Success with Certivance

Whether you're manning the grill at home or running a bustling kitchen, food safety is always in season. At Certivance, we help home cooks and culinary professionals alike stay safe, informed, and compliant.

Our food safety training and certification programs ensure you’re grilling smarter—from proper meat temps to preventing cross-contamination.

👉 Visit Certivance.com to learn more about how we can support your food safety journey.