National Burrito Day is a joyous celebration that pays homage to one of our most cherished and versatile foods, the burrito. This flavorful fiesta takes place annually on the first Thursday in April. It’s an occasion where we can savor and appreciate the unique gastronomic artistry that goes into creating this classic Mexican staple.
Whether you’re a fan of a simple bean and cheese burrito or revel in artisanal versions with innovative fillings, National Burrito Day invites us all to wrap up our favorite ingredients in a soft tortilla and celebrate the delightful unity of flavors.
History of National Burrito Day
The burrito has its roots in traditional Mexican cuisine and has been consumed and celebrated by Americans since the early 1900s when it was brought over by Mexican immigrants. The original form of the burrito hails from Ciudad Juarez, a city found in the Chihuahua region in northern Mexico.
The name ‘burrito’ translates to ‘little donkey’ in Spanish, which is said to be a nod to the bedrolls and packs that donkeys carry on their backs during travel - a sight thought to resemble the shape of a rolled-up burrito.
The popularity of the burrito has seen it evolve into different regional varieties throughout America, with the California burrito and the breakfast burrito rising to national acclaim.
National Burrito Day is usually marked with special promotions, deals, and discounts on burritos at many restaurants and fast food chains. This day is revered by many, who express their love for burritos by either opting to dine out or making their own versions at home. Regardless of the type – be it vegetarian, chicken, beef, or any other kind – this day is all about celebrating and savoring the delightful burrito.
National Burrito Day Timeline
Mexican Revolution
The Mexican Revolution led to a mass migration of people from Mexico to the United States, bringing their food culture with them.
First Burritos
First accounts of the 'burrito' in the United States, primarily in California amongst Mexican migrant communities.
First Printed Burrito Recipe
The first printed recipe of a burrito appeared in Erna Fergusson's Mexican cookbook.
Fast Food
The rise of fast food in America led to the popularization and spread of burritos across the nation.
Chipotle Founded
Steve Ells founded Chipotle Mexican Grill, which helped take burritos to the mainstream market across the United States and later globally.
Global Phenomenon
Burritos are now a widely recognized and loved food staple in many parts of the world.
Ideas to Celebrate National Burrito Day
Host a Burrito Making Party
Invite friends and family over and have a party where everyone brings ingredients for burritos. You can provide the tortillas and everyone else can bring different fillings. This can be a fun way to try new combinations and share your favorite recipes.
Try a New Burrito Restaurant
Do some research and find a local burrito restaurant you've never tried before. National Burrito Day is the perfect time to discover your new favorite spot.
Homemade Burrito Challenge
Challenge your family members to a homemade burrito cooking contest. See who can concoct the most unique, delicious burrito. The winner gets a food-related prize.
Burrito-themed Movie Night
Create a movie night with Mexican films or movies with a Hispanic leading role. Prepare burritos for dinner and have a good time watching interesting movies while enjoying your meal.
Visit Local Food Trucks
Local food trucks often have interesting and unique spins on traditional foods. Check to see if there are any food trucks in your area that serve burritos and give them a try on this day.
7 Interesting Facts About Burrito
Origins of the Burrito
The word 'burrito' means 'little donkey' in Spanish. It was originally used to describe a meal in a tortilla, possibly as far back as the 19th Century by Mexican miners, who found burritos easy to eat and transport while working.
Huge Burritos
The world's largest burrito was made in La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico in 2010. It was more than a 2.4 km long and weighed around 2 tonnes
Considerable Variety
There's no end to the types of burritos you can make. They can contain a wide range of ingredients, from rice, beans, and meats to cheese, vegetables, and even fruits.
Breakfast Burritos
Though originally consumed for lunch or dinner, the breakfast burrito has become a popular meal worldwide. This version of the dish typically includes eggs, cheese, and a variety of breakfast meats.
Burritos by State
According to a U.S. burrito consumption survey, residents of the Western U.S. are about 50% more likely to have eaten a burrito in the past two weeks compared to those living in the Midwest or South.
Bean and Cheese: Most Popular
In the United States, the most popular type of burrito is the simple bean and cheese burrito.
Sushi Burrito
In recent years, the sushi burrito became a trendy food item. It’s essentially a large sushi roll, about the size of a burrito, that you can eat with your hands.
National Burrito Day FAQs
Next National Burrito Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | April 6th | Thursday |
| 2024 | April 4th | Thursday |
| 2025 | April 3rd | Thursday |
| 2026 | April 2nd | Thursday |
| 2027 | April 1st | Thursday |
| What is the pattern? | First Thursday of April | |
National Burrito Day Word Search
- Burrito
- Mexican
- Tortilla
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Cheese