NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Taco Day

Celebrate the joy of tacos with a variety of flavors from around the world.

OCT6

Tuesday, October 6First Tuesday in October

days to go

Roots: Mexico
Vibe: A festive celebration of flavor
Also on Oct 6: World Cerebral Palsy Day · Coaches Day · Fruit at Work Day
Hashtag: #NationalTacoDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Build a taco spread

Warm tortillas, season ground meat or beans, and set out every topping you love.

WITH FRIENDS

Throw a taco night

Everyone brings a filling or topping; you supply the tortillas and salsa.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Order tacos for lunch

Split a big taco order with coworkers or classmates at midday.

Plan ahead

National Taco Day is observed on the first Tuesday in October. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Tue, Oct 6this year

2027Tue, Oct 5

2028Tue, Oct 3

2029Tue, Oct 2

2030Tue, Oct 1

2031Tue, Oct 7

2032Tue, Oct 5

2033Tue, Oct 4

2034Tue, Oct 3

2035Tue, Oct 2

2036Tue, Oct 7

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

2023Taco Tuesday trademarks ended in 2023, freeing the phrase for all

Americans eat over 4.5 billion tacos annually

The story

Taco Day, marked on the first Tuesday in October, has become a cherished occasion for food lovers across the United States. The word taco likely comes from 18th-century Mexican silver mines, where it meant a paper-wrapped gunpowder charge. From its humble beginnings, the taco has transformed into a cultural icon, celebrated by millions each year.

Read the full story

In America, the taco's popularity surged in the 20th century, particularly with the rise of fast-food chains offering quick and affordable options. Today, tacos come in numerous varieties, from traditional carne asada to innovative vegetarian and fusion options. The versatility of the taco allows for endless creativity in flavors and presentations.

National Taco Day is not just about eating tacos; it’s a celebration of community and sharing. Many restaurants across the country offer specials, encouraging people to come together and enjoy this beloved dish. Whether it's with friends at a local eatery or at home with family, tacos invite a sense of togetherness and joy.

As we celebrate National Taco Day, it’s essential to recognize the cultural significance of this dish. Tacos embody the spirit of Mexican heritage while also adapting to local tastes and ingredients. This day serves as a reminder of the rich culinary tapestry that tacos represent, inviting everyone to partake in this delicious experience.