Origins of National Drive‑Thru Day
National Drive‑Thru Day falls on Thursday, July 24, honoring a food‑service innovation we now consider routine. This celebration traces back to the rise of America’s car culture in the 1950s, when motorists began demanding faster, more convenient dining options.
The First Drive‑Thru Pioneers
Red’s Giant Hamburg on Route 66 in Springfield, Missouri, is widely regarded as the very first drive‑thru, opening its lanes in 1947. Not long after, In‑N‑Out Burger introduced drive‑through service in Los Angeles in 1948, followed by Jack in the Box—credited with inspiring National Drive‑Thru Day itself—joining the trend in 1951.
McDonald’s Brings Drive‑Thrus Mainstream
Although drive‑throughs existed for decades, they truly surged in popularity when McDonald’s opened its inaugural take‑out window in Arizona in 1975. From that point on, drive‑thru became synonymous with quick service and convenience across the country.
Drive‑Thru Growth Today
Fast‑forward to 2025, and more than 8,100 U.S. restaurants feature dedicated drive‑thru lanes—with projections estimating over 9,000 by 2026. A recent analysis by Polaris Market Research highlights how this format remains indispensable in American dining.
Why We Can’t Live Without Drive‑Thrus
“Drive‑thru culture isn’t just a trend—it’s core to how Americans eat,” says Polaris senior analyst Apurva Agarwal. Even as delivery apps gain traction, the drive‑thru still offers the fastest, most reliable way to grab a meal, prompting major chains to invest heavily in technology that speeds service and fosters customer loyalty.
How to Celebrate with Free Food and Deals
Hungry for a mobile feast? Many chains are rolling out special offers on July 24—so follow your favorite local drive‑thru on social media for extras. Here are some nationwide promotions to start with:
- Chick‑fil‑A: Many franchisees will host giveaways of swag or free menu items on your next visit.
- Del Taco: Del Yeah! Rewards members get 20% off any purchase from July 24–30 when they save the offer in the app or online.
- Dunkin’: Dunkin’ Rewards members can score medium Refreshers for $3 through August 19, plus a $5 meal deal featuring two Wake‑Up Wraps and a medium coffee.
- Fazoli’s: Buy one, get one free Spaghetti with Marinara or Meat Sauce (code BOGO25) from July 24–29.
- Greenlane: Receive a complimentary lemonade on July 24 with any made‑to‑order salad or wrap purchase.
- Krispy Kreme: Swing through the drive‑thru on July 24 for a free Original Glazed doughnut—no purchase needed (limit one per person).
- Scooter’s Coffee: Get $2 off any Caramelicious drink all day July 24 via the Scooter’s app, plus a limited‑edition sticker with any purchase.
Drive‑Thru Day is the perfect excuse to hit the road, satisfy your cravings, and take advantage of these tasty freebies and discounts. Enjoy!
