National Taco Day Moves to Enhance ‘Taco Tuesday’ Celebrations

National Taco Day is receiving noteworthy changes this year. The annual event, which aims to celebrate the popular Mexican dish with its myriad of flavors and preparations, sees numerous national restaurant chains providing special deals on what is now an updated date.

Historically, National Taco Day was celebrated on October 4th. However, following a settlement between Taco Bell and Taco John's over the exclusive use of the term “Taco Tuesday,” Taco Bell campaigned for the celebration to be moved to the first Tuesday of October. This change aligns the celebration with their focus on the beloved weeknight meal.

Taco Bell commented on the change by saying, “After hearing fans’ callouts on National Taco Day not landing on Taco Tuesday, Taco Bell and National Day Calendar had no other choice but to right this wrong for taco lovers everywhere. Now, with that hurdle cleared, Taco Bell kicks off a month-long celebration every Tuesday in October.”

To celebrate, Taco Bell is offering a promotion involving $1 tacos available for 10 hours on National Taco Day and continuing the promotions throughout October. Each hour features a different taco choice, making it one of their biggest Tuesday Drops to date.

The national event sees other chains joining the festivities. Chuy's is participating by allowing customers to add a ground beef taco to any dine-in entree purchase for $1. They are celebrating on both the revised date, Tuesday, October 1, and also on the original, Friday, October 4.

Taco Cabana is offering deals without any purchase limit or need for coupons, whereas El Pollo Loco’s Loco Rewards members can purchase three fire-grilled chicken tacos for $5 within the promotional period.