National Taco Day

National Taco Day is observed on the first Tuesday in October each year in the United States. It’s a day for taco lovers to celebrate their favorite handheld food with crispy, soft, traditional, or experimental tacos alike.

History of National Taco Day

Although tacos have a long history in Mexican cuisine going back centuries, the specific observance of National Taco Day in the U.S. is more recent. Sources suggest its roots lie partly in San Antonio, Texas during the 1960s, where a local effort promoted a “Taco Day,” which later broadened to Taco Week or Taco Month among civic and cultural groups.

For a long time National Taco Day was fixed on October 4 annually. But more recently, in 2024, the holiday was officially moved to the first Tuesday in October so that it always aligns with “Taco Tuesday”—making it more festive and giving more people a chance to join in.

Why is National Taco Day important?

It’s easy to dismiss National Taco Day as just another food holiday, but it actually offers something meaningful beyond tacos themselves. First, food has this powerful way of bringing people together: families, friends, restaurants, even entire communities unite around shared meals. A taco isn’t just ingredients wrapped in a tortilla—it carries culture, history, flavor, memory. Observing a day focused on tacos invites people to remember the origins of what may now be fast‑food fare: local cooks, regional traditions (corn tortillas, salsas, meats, fillings), and the blending of culinary styles as tacos spread beyond Mexico.

Second, it gives a chance to elevate awareness of food justice, sustainable ingredients, and food culture. Celebrating tacos can also mean celebrating the farmers, cooks, and artisans involved—from growers of corn and chilies to butchers, sauce makers, tortilla makers. When restaurant chains join in with deals, it also opens up access for more people to enjoy. And celebrating newly invented or fusion tacos pushes culinary creativity, helping traditional cuisines evolve rather than stagnate.

Some thoughts on its importance:

• it reminds us of the cultural roots and regional diversity behind something many take for granted
• it gives restaurants and small businesses a platform to shine, especially taquerías and makers of local tortillas or sauces
• it encourages experimentation, tasting new fillings or styles one might not otherwise try
• it offers an affordable way to gather, because tacos can be simple and inexpensive yet delicious
• it fosters joy: food holidays are small moments of pleasure in everyday life

How to Celebrate National Taco Day

If you want to mark National Taco Day, here are realistic, fun ways to do so—nothing over the top, just things that bring a bit of flavor and community to the day.

You could start by trying a recipe you’ve never made: maybe fish tacos, al pastor, vegan jackfruit, or something spicy you’ve been hesitant about. Even picking up a tortilla you’ve never used, or a salsa you didn’t make before, can open up new tastes.

Another lovely option is supporting local. Find a local taquería, small Mexican restaurant, or street vendor. Buy tacos there, share them with friends, or even bring them to people who might not get out often. If possible, invite someone to cook with you—sharing cooking is a great way to bond.

Ways to participate:

• cook your own tacos at home with a friend, trying out new fillings or making your own tortillas
• hunt for deals: many restaurants offer specials, cheap/free tacos, or promotions on National Taco Day
• invite friends / family over for a taco night: everyone brings an ingredient or topping
• share your taco creations on social media or with someone who doesn’t often try Mexican food
• if possible, support businesses that use sustainably sourced ingredients, or small local places rather than big chains

National Taco Day Dates Table