Whataburger is marking its 75th anniversary by offering a classic burger for just 75 cents on Friday, August 8, with a range of festivities and limited-edition merchandise to honor the burger chain’s legacy across 17 states.
This milestone, recognized as National Whataburger Day, celebrates more than seven decades since Harmon Dobson sold the first Whataburger in Corpus Christi, Texas. According to the Whataburger website the offer is digital-only and available through the company’s app or website to Rewards members from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. local time. The promotion, which allows each member one redemption, is being accompanied by local events and product launches nationwide.
Newsweek contacted Whataburger for comment via email on Friday outside of regular office hours.
Why it Matters
Whataburger’s 75th anniversary underscored the enduring popularity of regional fast food chains in American culture. With over 1,100 locations in 17 states and a devoted following, the Texas-born brand continues to shape local identities, unify communities, and influence the competitive landscape in the fast-food industry.
The campaign emphasized digital engagement, rewarding loyal app users and promoting community celebrations at select locations.
What To Know
The 75-cent burger offer, available exclusively through the Whataburger app and website, allows rewards members to purchase one classic #1 Whataburger between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. local time on August 8, 2025.
This special deal included the classic burger—two beef patties, lettuce, tomato, pickles, diced onions, and mustard on a toasted bun—with optional customizations and add-ons for an additional charge. The offer is digital-only, encouraging customers to engage via Whataburger’s app or website, and limited to one per account. Participating locations included all restaurants in the chain’s 17-state footprint.
The celebration extended beyond the special offer. In Corpus Christi, hometown fans are invited to Whataburger Field for a 75th Anniversary Celebration baseball game featuring the Corpus Christi Hooks and Tulsa Drillers.
The event is billed as including giveaways such as limited-edition masks and capes, commemorative collectible cups, a signature anniversary game, fireworks, and coupons for free menu items.
In May a man filed a lawsuit against Whataburger seeking $1 million in damages after alleging the company served him a burger with onions despite being informed he was allergic to these. The company declined to comment when contacted by Newsweek at the time.
In July 2024 there were reports some Texas residents used the Whataburger’s app to determine power outage locations as Hurricane Beryl lashed the state as their energy provider’s app was offline.
The Dobson family sold a majority interest in Whataburger to Chicago-based investment banking firm BDT Capital in 2019.
What People Are Saying
Whataburger President and CEO Debbie Stroud said: “Whataburger’s story has always been one about people—the fans who’ve made us part of their everyday moments, the Family Members who serve every meal with care and pride, and the communities that have welcomed us like family for 75 years.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we’re not just marking time—we’re honoring the memories, the traditions, and the quality experiences that keep folks coming back. This anniversary is our way of saying thank you. Thank you for your trust, your loyalty, and for letting us be part of your table.”
What Happens Next
Whataburger’s anniversary promotion highlighted the brand’s ongoing strategy to blend nostalgia with digital innovation. The company indicated more commemorative merchandise, rotating menu specials, and further community events are slated for later in the year. With plans to expand in states like South Carolina and further leveraging digital loyalty programs, Whataburger is positioning itself to capitalize on both tradition and technology.
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