Introduction
French fries. They’re crispy, golden, irresistible, and beloved by almost every foodie on Earth. That’s why each year, Americans dedicate an entire day to honoring this comfort food champion — and in 2025, that special occasion falls on Friday, July 11. Welcome to National Fries Day 2025, a fry-filled fiesta of free deals, creative toppings, global styles, and crunchy satisfaction.
This isn’t just a random food holiday. With major fast food chains giving away free fries, gourmet restaurants joining in with unique offers, and social media exploding with #FryDay content, National Fries Day is quickly becoming one of the most exciting dates on the culinary calendar. In fact, the celebration has gained so much traction that Checkers and Rally’s successfully petitioned to have the date officially moved to the second Friday of July, making it an even bigger deal in the years to come..National French Fry Day
So what makes 2025’s edition different? More brands are jumping in, the deals are hotter than ever, and social trends are pushing fry fans to go big — from building “fry boards” (like cheese boards but with French fries) to hosting at-home fry tasting parties. Whether you’re a ketchup purist or a gourmet aioli snob, there’s something here for everyone.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll find:
- The history behind this beloved holiday.
- The best deals you can grab on July 11, 2025.
- Fry facts and trivia that’ll blow your mind.
- How to host a fry party at home with creative toppings and sauces.
- And a global look at how fries are enjoyed around the world.
Ready to turn your Friday into a #FryDay? Let’s dive into the hot, crispy, and golden world of National Fries Day 2025.
The History of National Fries Day
Origins of French Fries
Despite the name, the origin of French fries is hotly contested. Many believe they originated not in France, but in Belgium. The story dates back to the 17th century in the Meuse Valley region, where locals supposedly fried small fish from the river. During the winter months, when the rivers froze over, they cut potatoes into strips and fried them instead — giving birth to what we now call “fries.”
Meanwhile, the French also claim ownership, pointing to the bustling street vendors of 18th-century Paris, who sold fried potato slices known as “pommes frites.” Regardless of the true origin, what’s clear is that French fries became globally popular after World War I, when American soldiers stationed in Belgium discovered them and brought the concept home — mistakenly calling them “French” due to the language spoken in the region.
Thomas Jefferson is often credited with introducing fries to the United States. In 1802, he served “potatoes fried in the French manner” at a White House dinner, sparking early interest in the dish among elite Americans. Over time, fries became a staple side dish across the U.S., especially with the rise of drive-thrus and fast food in the 20th century..McDonald’s Snack Wrap
How the Holiday Began
The specific origins of National Fries Day as a holiday are a bit murky — like many fun food holidays, it likely started as a marketing initiative. While it wasn’t created by any official body or government, brands began jumping on the opportunity to offer freebies and engage customers.
The earliest mentions of National French Fry Day appear around the early 2000s, gaining momentum via social media. The hashtag #NationalFrenchFryDay and later #FryDay helped it trend each year in July, especially as fast-food giants like McDonald’s and Burger King began to promote deals aligned with the celebration.
Originally held on July 13 each year, the holiday slowly gained commercial recognition, especially as more Americans began sharing their fry love online. Instagram photos of gourmet fries, TikTok fry reviews, and YouTube fry taste tests all contributed to the holiday’s digital explosion.
When It Moved to Second Friday of July
In 2022, something major happened. Checkers and Rally’s, two chains famous for their seasoned fries, successfully launched a petition to move National Fries Day to the second Friday in July instead of a fixed date like July 13. Their argument was simple: It makes more sense to celebrate on a Friday, when people are in a weekend mood and more likely to indulge..I Tried 4 Popular Gas Station Hot Dogs
The campaign succeeded, and since then, National Fries Day has been observed on the second Friday of July — aligning perfectly with both consumer behavior and marketing efforts. That means in 2025, we celebrate on Friday, July 11 — a date already circled by fry lovers across the country.
Now more than ever, the day is being embraced not only by fast-food chains, but also local eateries, gourmet restaurants, and social influencers who use the moment to promote unique fry dishes, flash giveaways, and “fry flights” (sampler trays of multiple fry styles and dips).
Top National Fries Day 2025 Deals
One of the best parts about National Fries Day is the abundance of free fries and exclusive deals offered by major fast-food chains. Whether you’re a fan of golden shoestrings, waffle fries, or loaded fry platters, July 11, 2025, is your golden opportunity to grab crispy rewards across the country. Below are the most noteworthy offers, organized by brand.
McDonald’s
McDonald’s is keeping things classic in 2025 with their Free Fries Friday deal — and it gets even better for National Fries Day:
- Offer: Get a free medium fries with any $1+ purchase.
- How: Redeemable via the McDonald’s app.
- Bonus: This deal isn’t limited to July 11 — it’s part of a year-long promotion available every Friday. But for National Fries Day, it’s valid through Sunday, July 13, giving fans extra time to indulge.
This app-exclusive promotion is designed to boost customer loyalty and mobile engagement, and it’s a great way to kick off the celebration with the world’s most iconic fries.
Burger King
Burger King is bringing some royalty to the fry game this year with a buy-one-get-one (BOGO) special:
- Offer 1: Free fries (any size) with a $1+ purchase for Royal Perks members.
- Offer 2: DashPass subscribers can get BOGO Chicken Fries exclusively through DoorDash.
These deals showcase how Burger King is leveraging both its loyalty program and delivery partnerships to reward customers on this festive Friday.
Wendy’s
Wendy’s is known for its Hot & Crispy Fries, and they’re leaning into that branding hard for 2025:
- Offer: Free any-size fries with any in-app purchase.
- Where: Wendy’s app or website.
- When: Available on July 11, but this Friday-only deal continues all year, so fans can celebrate weekly.
Wendy’s fries are made from natural-cut, skin-on potatoes and have gained a loyal following since their recent formula revamp. Pair them with a Frosty for the ultimate salty-sweet combo.
Smashburger
Smashburger is one of the few brands offering a wide range of fry options:
- Offer: Free fries with any $1+ order.
- Fries Included: Regular fries, Smashfries (rosemary, garlic, olive oil), sweet potato fries, and spicy Scorchin’ Hot fries.
- Code to Use: FRYDAY25 on Smashburger.com or the app.
This promo is a standout because of the variety it includes — perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something beyond standard fries.
Shake Shack
Shake Shack is keeping it simple and delicious:
- Offer: Free side of fries with any purchase.
- Where: In-app or at kiosk.
- Promo Code: FREEFRY
Given Shake Shack’s premium crinkle-cut fries and the option to add cheese sauce, this is a fan-favorite promotion each year.
Arby’s, Sonic, and More
Arby’s
- Offer: Free small fries with purchase of any cheesesteak item.
- Bonus: $1 fry offers available via their app.
Sonic Drive-In
- Offer: Free medium fries or tots with any purchase.
- How: Redeem through the Sonic app only on July 11.
These drive-in favorites offer a nostalgic way to celebrate — fries delivered right to your car window, just like the good old days.
Other Chains Participating
Beyond the big names, dozens of other brands are serving up their own fry deals:
- Fatburger: Free skinny or fat fries with burger/sandwich purchase using code FryDay25 (July 11–13).
- Carl’s Jr. & Hardee’s: $1 small fries and other in-app exclusives.
- Wayback Burgers: Free regular fries with the purchase of a burger on July 11.
- Checkers & Rally’s: Expect special promotions to celebrate their successful petition that moved the holiday to Friday.
- White Castle, Krystal, Dog Haus, Penn Station, Good Times, City Barbeque, Long John Silver’s — all are rolling out app-exclusive deals on July 11.
📌 Pro Tip: Almost all deals require mobile app download or loyalty sign-up, so prep ahead to snag the best fry freebies.
Unique Fry Styles to Try This Year
When most people think of French fries, they imagine the classic straight-cut variety — golden, salted, and served with ketchup. But in the world of fries, there’s a crispy universe waiting to be explored. On National Fries Day 2025, why not take your taste buds on an adventure and try something new?
Fries have evolved beyond the basics, with restaurants and home chefs embracing creative cuts, seasonings, and global twists. From gourmet truffle fries to sweet potato spirals, the possibilities are as endless as they are delicious.
Sweet Potato, Curly, and Waffle Fries
Sweet Potato Fries
These vibrant orange fries have surged in popularity over the past decade. Slightly sweeter and often considered a “healthier” alternative, sweet potato fries offer a unique flavor and satisfying crunch. They’re often paired with cinnamon-sugar dust, sriracha mayo, or even marshmallow dipping sauce for a sweet-and-savory profile.
Curly Fries
Seasoned and spiral-cut, curly fries are a favorite at places like Arby’s. The key to their addictive taste is the seasoning — a mix of paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne that clings perfectly to their twisted shape. They’re fun to eat and packed with flavor..Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
Waffle Fries
These crisscrossed beauties are often found at Chick-fil-A and other gourmet spots. Their unique shape provides an ideal surface for scooping sauces, and they make a visually impressive addition to any fry board or party platter. Try them with ranch, buffalo sauce, or blue cheese dressing.
Regional Specialties Across the U.S.
Different parts of the U.S. have their own takes on French fries, and National Fries Day is a great excuse to explore them:
- Cheese Fries (Midwest & South): Melted cheddar or nacho cheese poured over fries. Add bacon, sour cream, and scallions for a loaded version.
- Animal-Style Fries (West Coast): A signature of In-N-Out Burger, featuring cheese, grilled onions, and secret sauce.
- Chili Cheese Fries (Southwest): A heartier option that layers chili con carne, shredded cheese, and sometimes jalapeños on top.
- Crab Fries (East Coast): A Philadelphia favorite, these fries are tossed with Old Bay seasoning and served with warm cheese sauce.
Trying regional fries is a flavorful way to take your celebration nationwide — without leaving your kitchen.
Gourmet Twists for Foodies
If you’re a foodie looking to elevate your fry game, you’re in luck. Chefs are increasingly experimenting with French fries as a canvas for luxury ingredients and bold flavors.
Truffle Fries
- Tossed in truffle oil and finished with grated Parmesan and parsley.
- A favorite at upscale burger joints and gastropubs.
Duck Fat Fries
- Fried in rendered duck fat, these fries are rich, flavorful, and ultra-crispy.
- Popular in French restaurants and bistros.
Garlic Parmesan Fries
- A crunchy, cheesy option dusted with shredded Parmesan and roasted garlic.
- Delicious with lemon aioli or spicy ketchup.
Kimchi Fries
- A fusion masterpiece that combines fries with Korean fermented cabbage (kimchi), spicy mayo, green onions, and occasionally beef bulgogi.
- Found at food trucks and modern Asian fusion spots.
Dessert Fries
- Yes, they exist! Think churro fries, cinnamon sugar fries, or fries topped with chocolate sauce and whipped cream.
- Ideal for ending your fry night on a sweet note.
DIY Fry Flights at Home
Why settle for one kind of fry when you can enjoy a sampler flight? Many food lovers are now building “fry flights” at home or at parties, offering a range of fries with various dips and toppings.
Here’s how to build one:
- Base: Include 3–5 types of fries (e.g., classic, sweet potato, waffle, curly, truffle).
- Dips: Ketchup, chipotle mayo, ranch, sriracha aioli, cheese sauce.
- Extras: Crumbled bacon, chili, jalapeños, green onions, and shaved cheese.
Arrange your fries on a large board or tray for a visually stunning and delicious celebration centerpiece.
How to Celebrate National Fries Day at Home
Not planning to hit up fast-food joints this July 11, 2025? No worries — you can still enjoy National Fries Day in full flavor from the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re flying solo, hosting a fry party, or getting the kids involved, there are tons of fun and delicious ways to celebrate at home. Here’s how to turn your house into Fry HQ for the day.
Fry Party Ideas
Hosting a fry-themed party is one of the most fun ways to mark the holiday. It’s easy to plan, doesn’t break the bank, and appeals to virtually everyone — because who doesn’t love fries?
Fry Bar Setup
Think of a fry bar like a taco bar, but golden and crispy:
- Base options: classic fries, sweet potato fries, waffle fries, curly fries.
- Toppings: shredded cheese, bacon bits, jalapeños, scallions, grilled onions.
- Sauces: ketchup, ranch, garlic aioli, honey mustard, chipotle mayo, cheese sauce, BBQ, and hot sauce.
- Garnishes: chopped herbs, truffle oil drizzle, paprika, or Cajun seasoning.
Set everything out buffet-style and let guests customize their fry creations. It’s interactive, fun, and guaranteed to impress.
Fry-Themed Games
Keep the vibe lively with games like:
- Fry Trivia: Who can guess the most fry facts right?
- Blind Taste Test: Can your guests tell waffle from steak fries while blindfolded?
- Fry Tower Challenge: Stack fries into the tallest tower — no licking allowed!
DIY Dips & Sauces
One of the best parts of fries is dipping them into your favorite sauces — or better yet, creating your own. Here are a few easy, crowd-pleasing recipes:
1. Spicy Sriracha Aioli
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Dash of garlic powder
→ Stir together for a tangy, spicy dip.
2. Garlic Parmesan Dip
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan
- 1 tsp garlic paste
→ Rich and creamy, perfect with truffle fries.
3. Smoky Chipotle Ketchup
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp adobo sauce (from canned chipotle peppers)
- Dash of cumin
→ A bold twist on the classic.
You can also offer classic condiments like mustard, malt vinegar, buffalo sauce, or even sweet choices like chocolate syrup for dessert fries.
Creative Toppings and Serving Styles
Why settle for plain fries when you can get creative? Turn your fries into a full-blown dish by layering on toppings and using fun serving styles.
Loaded Fry Platters
- Tex-Mex Style: Fries, taco beef, cheddar cheese, jalapeños, guacamole, sour cream.
- Buffalo Chicken: Shredded buffalo chicken, blue cheese crumbles, ranch drizzle.
- Bacon & Ranch: Bacon bits, chopped chives, ranch, and mozzarella.
- Poutine Style: Cheese curds and hot brown gravy — a Canadian classic.
Serving Tips
- Mini fry baskets or cones: For individual servings at parties.
- Platter boards: Like charcuterie boards, but entirely fries and dips.
- Fry jars or cups: Clear cups filled with fries and a drizzle of sauce on top for walking around snacks.
Fry Night for Kids and Families
Make it a fun and educational experience for kids:
- Fry decorating station: Let them sprinkle different seasonings like ranch powder, cinnamon sugar, or paprika.
- Colorful dipping cups: Use silicone cups for different sauces and ask kids to rank their favorites.
- Build-a-Fry-Creature: Give them toothpicks and fries to create funny characters — just for laughs before eating.
It’s a great opportunity to cook together, learn kitchen skills, and talk about food from different cultures, especially with international fry styles like poutine, curry chips, or yuca fries..What Is Pioneer Woman Alice Springs Chicken?
Go Social with #FryDay2025
Snap photos of your fry night, post them on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook with #NationalFriesDay2025 or #FryDay2025. Share your creations, compare sauce combos, and even challenge your friends to do the same. User-generated content makes the day more exciting and connects you with other fry lovers around the world.
Fries Around the World: Global Variations
While French fries are a staple in the U.S., other countries have their own unique fry traditions. For National Fries Day 2025, why not try a fry style from another culture?
Belgian Frites
- Thick-cut, double-fried, and usually served in paper cones with mayo or andalouse sauce.
- Often found at friteries (fry stands) in Belgium.
- Considered by many to be the original fry.
Canadian Poutine
- A Quebec specialty made with fries, cheese curds, and hot brown gravy.
- Hearty, rich, and perfect for a satisfying meal.
- Variations include pulled pork, mushrooms, or even foie gras.
British Chips
- Thicker and softer than American fries.
- Served with malt vinegar and often paired with battered fish for the iconic fish and chips dish.
Japanese and Korean Takes
- Japan: Popular fries include seaweed-seasoned fries and nori mayo dips.
- Korea: Bulgogi fries topped with grilled beef, spicy mayo, kimchi, and green onions are a popular street food.
Middle Eastern & Latin American Styles
- Middle East: Fries are often wrapped into shawarma or falafel wraps.
- Latin America: Yuca (cassava) fries are crispy and starchy, served with garlic mojo or spicy sauces.
FAQ
When is National Fries Day 2025?
A: It falls on Friday, July 11, 2025 — the second Friday of July, as officially recognized starting in 2022.
Why was the date changed from July 13?
A: Brands like Checkers and Rally’s pushed to make it a Friday celebration, which better aligns with food service promotions and weekend energy.
Are French fries really French?
A: Probably not. Most historians credit Belgium with inventing fries, although France popularized them in street food culture.
What are the healthiest fries to eat?
A: Baked sweet potato fries, air-fried potato wedges, or fries made from veggies like zucchini or carrots are healthier alternatives.
What’s the best oil for frying fries at home?
A: Peanut oil or canola oil are great choices because of their high smoke points and neutral flavors.
Can I get free fries without downloading apps?
A: Most major chains require app use, but local diners or gourmet burger spots may offer deals with no strings attached. Always check their social media or websites.
Conclusion
Whether you’re diving into a pile of crinkle cuts at Shake Shack, layering on toppings for a DIY fry bar, or exploring poutine for the first time, National Fries Day 2025 is the perfect moment to celebrate one of the world’s most beloved comfort foods..National Fried Chicken Day 2025
On Friday, July 11, join millions of fans by grabbing a freebie from your favorite fast-food spot, cooking up a fry feast at home, or trying global styles that put a twist on tradition. From McDonald’s iconic fries to Korean kimchi-loaded creations, there’s a fry for every taste — and a celebration for every craving.
Just remember: life’s short — double fry your potatoes and enjoy every crispy bite.
Happy #FryDay2025!
Name: DIY French Fry Bar for National Fries Day 2025
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Instructions:
- Cook fries according to package instructions or fry them fresh at 375°F until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Prepare toppings and place in small bowls. Heat chili and cheese sauce if using.
- Set up your fry bar with fries in separate baskets or trays. Arrange toppings and sauces nearby.
- Let guests build their own fry plates, adding toppings and dipping sauces to their liking.
- Enjoy with friends and share photos using #FryDay2025!