Cheeseburgers are one of the most iconic fast-food items in America, and McDonald’s has long been at the center of that story.
Every so often, the company finds a way to bring customers something that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
This year, they’ve tied one of their biggest promotions to a national food holiday, and the result is generating plenty of buzz. But before you rush to the drive-thru, there’s something important you should know.
A National Food Holiday
Every September, National Cheeseburger Day gives burger fans an extra reason to celebrate. Many fast-food chains circle this date on their calendars and offer limited-time deals to mark the occasion.
McDonald’s Joins the Party
McDonald’s, one of the world’s most recognizable fast-food brands, isn’t sitting this one out. They’ve lined up an offer that’s catching attention not just for its timing but for its price.
Timing Is Key
This year, National Cheeseburger Day falls on Thursday, September 18. That’s the day McDonald’s fans will need to pay attention, because the deal is limited to a single day.
Building Anticipation
Other chains have celebrated the holiday with discounts or bundles in the past, but McDonald’s is choosing a slightly different approach. It’s simple, direct, and built around one of their most popular menu items.
What’s on the Menu
The Double Cheeseburger has been a staple on McDonald’s menu for decades. With two beef patties, two slices of cheese, pickles, onions, ketchup, and mustard, it’s a familiar favorite for many customers.
A Deal That Stands Out
This isn’t about adding fries, drinks, or extras. The promotion focuses only on the Double Cheeseburger, making the offer easy to understand and even easier to act on.
Not at the Counter
Here’s where the twist comes in: you can’t simply walk into a restaurant and order at the counter to get the deal. McDonald’s has made this offer exclusive in a very specific way.
Digital-Only Access
To claim the cheeseburger at the promotional price, customers must use the McDonald’s App. The company is leaning into digital ordering as part of its strategy to connect directly with customers.
The 50-Cent Price
The cost? Just 50 cents for a Double Cheeseburger. That’s a fraction of the regular price and one of the lowest price points McDonald’s has offered in recent years.
One Per Customer
There is a catch: each customer can only claim one Double Cheeseburger at the promotional price. It’s designed as a treat, not an unlimited discount.
Franchise Flexibility
It’s worth noting that McDonald’s restaurants are run by franchisees, who have some control over pricing and offers. While the 50-cent burger is a national promotion, local availability can vary.
Other Current Deals
This special offer comes shortly after McDonald’s reintroduced its Extra Value Meals earlier in September. Those meals give customers a way to save around 15% compared to ordering items individually.
Breakfast Bargains
For example, the Sausage McMuffin with Egg meal, paired with Hash Browns and coffee, is being offered for $5. It’s part of a broader set of eight meal options covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Lunch and Dinner Options
Popular choices such as the Big Mac meal for $8, 10-piece Chicken McNuggets, and Quarter Pounder varieties are all included in the Extra Value lineup. These deals run alongside the cheeseburger promotion.
Why Value Matters
McDonald’s has been under pressure to show customers it can deliver affordable options, especially as grocery and restaurant prices have climbed in recent years.
Official Statement
Joe Erlinger, President of McDonald’s USA, emphasized that the company is “laser-focused on delivering value and affordability.” He noted that franchisees and teams are central to making these promotions possible.
Connecting With Customers
From the $5 Meal Deal to the 50-cent cheeseburger, McDonald’s strategy is clear: keep customers engaged by offering prices that feel accessible without sacrificing familiarity.
Marking the Calendar
For fans of the brand, the key takeaway is simple: Thursday, September 18 is the day to act. Missing that date means missing the promotion entirely.
The Bigger Picture
At its heart, the 50-cent Double Cheeseburger is more than just a discount. It’s part of a wider effort by McDonald’s to blend tradition, technology, and affordability.
Whether it’s a quick lunch or a small celebration, the offer shows how even a single cheeseburger can make headlines.