National Taco Day celebrates one of the most loved foods in the United States and around the world. Once observed on October 4, it has been moved to the first Tuesday in October to match the weekly tradition of Taco Tuesday. The change reflects how tacos have become part of American life—from family dinners to food trucks and big restaurant chains.
On National Taco Day, everyone is invited to embrace their inner taco connoisseur. Maybe you’ll try something new, like a Korean BBQ taco with kimchi, or perhaps you’ll perfect your classic taco night with friends, complete with homemade guacamole and margaritas. Restaurants and taco joints across the country often offer special deals, so it’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself and maybe even discover a new favorite spot.
National vs. International Taco Day
The United States has its own Taco Day, but Mexico celebrates the original International Taco Day on March 31, also known as DÃa del Taco. That observance began in 2007 when Televisa, a major Mexican media company, created it to honor tacos as part of national culture. Both days celebrate the same dish but reflect how tacos have crossed borders and become a global favorite.
| Holiday | Date | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| National Taco Day (U.S.) | First Tuesday in October | Now aligned with Taco Tuesday |
| International Taco Day | March 31 | Created in Mexico in 2007 by Televisa |
When Is National Taco Day Celebrated?
National Taco Day has moved dates and is now celebrated on the first Tuesday in October (yes, to line up with ‘Taco Tuesday’). Here’s a table that shows the exact dates and weekdays for the celebration up to 2030. We hope this will help you plan your taco parties, family gatherings, or just make sure you don’t miss out on the fun.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2025 | October 7, Tuesday |
| 2026 | October 6, Tuesday |
| 2027 | October 5, Tuesday |
| 2028 | October 3, Tuesday |
| 2029 | October 2, Tuesday |
| 2030 | October 1, Tuesday |
How to Celebrate National Taco Day
National Taco Day is the perfect excuse to enjoy tacos in any form. You can cook at home, visit your favorite taquerÃa, or take advantage of restaurant specials. Try traditional options such as carne asada or fish tacos, or explore new twists like Korean BBQ or vegetarian tacos filled with grilled vegetables and beans.
Many restaurants and taco chains celebrate with discounts and themed menus. Some even offer free tacos or limited-edition flavors. Whether you host a taco night with friends or order takeout, the goal is the same—enjoy great food and good company.
Share your celebration online with #NationalTacoDay and join other taco lovers across the country.
History of National Taco Day
The story of National Taco Day begins in San Antonio, Texas, during the late 1960s. Roberto L. Gomez, a city council candidate and newspaper columnist, helped organize a community event called National Taco Week to promote Mexican cuisine and culture. Gomez and the San Antonio Social Civic Organization even sent tacos and other Mexican dishes to the White House as a reminder of the deep Mexican influence in American food.
In 1967, San Antonio’s mayor proclaimed the week before Cinco de Mayo as National Taco Week, and by 1968, May 3 was recognized locally as National Taco Day. Over time, the date moved to October 4, and in 2024 it was shifted once more to the first Tuesday of October. The current version is supported by the National Day Calendar and Taco Bell, linking it to the fun and familiar spirit of Taco Tuesday.
Some other national days that honor Mexican cuisine
National Taco Day is part of a larger group of food days that honor Mexican cuisine:
- National Burrito Day – First Thursday in April
- National Fajita Day – August 18
- National Quesadilla Day – September 25
- National Nachos Day – November 6
- National Chimichanga Day – September 26
