National Cheesesteak Day

Celebrated on 03/24/2026

Quick Fact

The cheesesteak was invented in 1930 by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in Philadelphia, who threw beef on the grill for a sandwich. Today, Philadelphia consumes an estimated 1.5 million cheesesteaks annually, with Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks serving over 4,000 sandwiches each per day.

Origins and Establishment of National Cheesesteak Day

The cheesesteak was invented in 1930 by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in South Philadelphia. One day, he decided to grill some beef and put it on a hoagie roll. A taxi driver smelled the aroma and asked for one, leading to the creation of the iconic sandwich. National Cheesesteak Day was established by the National Day Calendar and is celebrated annually on March 24. The exact year of its establishment is not widely documented, but it has gained popularity through social media and local promotions.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over the decades, the cheesesteak has evolved from a simple beef sandwich to include various cheeses like Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese, and optional toppings such as onions, peppers, and mushrooms. Today, National Cheesesteak Day is celebrated with special deals at restaurants, social media campaigns, and events in Philadelphia. Many chains like Wawa and local eateries offer discounts or freebies, and the day is marked by food festivals and cooking competitions.

Facts & General Observations

• Philadelphia has over 700 cheesesteak shops, with Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks being the most famous rivals.
• The largest cheesesteak ever made weighed over 4,000 pounds and was created in 2013 in Philadelphia.
• According to a 2020 survey, 68% of Americans prefer Cheez Whiz on their cheesesteak, followed by provolone at 22% and American cheese at 10%.

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