Whataburger Celebrates 75th Anniversary With 75-Cent Burgers, Limited-Edition Merch & Nationwide Festivities

The smell of sizzling beef, toasted buns, and a wave of nostalgia filled the air as Whataburger kicked off its 75th-anniversary celebration with a bang. On Friday, August 8, 2025, the beloved Texas-born chain honored its legacy by offering a classic #1 Whataburger for just 75 cents—a throwback to its humble beginnings in Corpus Christi. But the festivities didn’t stop there: limited-edition merchandise, a hometown baseball game, and fireworks lit up the celebration, proving that even after 75 years, Whataburger remains a cultural icon across 17 states.

Whataburger’s 75th Anniversary: What’s the Deal?

For one day only, Rewards members could snag a 75-cent Whataburger—the chain’s signature double-patty classic with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, and mustard—via the Whataburger app or website between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. local time. The digital-exclusive deal was limited to one redemption per account, with optional add-ons available for an extra charge.

The promotion wasn’t just about cheap burgers; it was a strategic nod to digital engagement, rewarding loyal app users while driving new downloads. With over 1,100 locations in its footprint, the campaign reinforced Whataburger’s dominance in the competitive fast-food landscape.

Why Whataburger’s 75th Anniversary Matters

Whataburger isn’t just a fast-food chain—it’s a cultural institution. Since Harmon Dobson sold the first burger in 1950, the brand has woven itself into the fabric of Southern and Southwestern communities. Its orange-and-white stripes are as recognizable as its oversized burgers, and its fans are fiercely loyal.

The anniversary also highlighted the brand’s post-pandemic shift toward digital loyalty programs, mirroring industry trends. When Hurricane Beryl hit Texas in July 2024, residents even used the Whataburger app to track power outages after energy providers’ systems failed—proof of its unexpected community role.

Beyond nostalgia, the celebration included:

• Limited-edition merch (masks, capes, collectible cups)

• Corpus Christi Hooks baseball game (featuring a themed “Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits” uniform night)

• Fireworks and giveaways at select locations

What’s Next for Whataburger?

The 75th-anniversary bash is just the beginning. Whataburger CEO Debbie Stroud hinted at more commemorative merchandise, rotating menu specials, and expansion plans, including a push into South Carolina. With a blend of tradition and tech-driven loyalty programs, the chain aims to stay relevant for another 75 years.

For fans, the takeaway was clear: Whataburger isn’t just serving burgers—it’s serving history.

You Must Know:

1. How can I get the 75-cent Whataburger deal?
The offer was exclusive to Whataburger Rewards members via the app or website on August 8, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Each account could redeem one burger.

2. What’s included in the classic #1 Whataburger?
It features two beef patties, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, diced onions, and mustard on a toasted bun. Add-ons (like cheese or bacon) cost extra.

3. Are there any in-person events for the anniversary?
Yes! Corpus Christi hosted a 75th-anniversary baseball game with the Hooks, themed giveaways, and fireworks. Select locations also had limited-edition cups and merch.

4. Did Whataburger face any recent controversies?
In May 2025, a customer sued for $1 million, alleging an onion-containing burger triggered his allergy. Whataburger declined to comment when contacted by Newsweek.

5. Who owns Whataburger now?
The Dobson family sold a majority stake to Chicago-based BDT Capital in 2019, but the brand retains its Texas roots.

6. Will there be more anniversary promotions?
Yes! CEO Debbie Stroud confirmed rotating menu specials and more merch throughout 2025.