This is not a joke: National Burrito Day and April Fools’ Day fall on the same day this year.
The day of pranks and burrito deals is Thursday and while Mexican food chains aren't exactly going the whole enchilada, the day hasn't been canceled like other food days during the COVID-19 pandemic, including Free Cone Day and 7-Eleven's Free Slurpee Day.
Burrito Day is held annually on the first Thursday of April.
Thursday also is the first day of IHOP's revamped National Pancake Day promotion for those who joined the chain's email club by March 31. Throughout April, members get a free short stack of pancakes.
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Unlike last year, when Chipotle Mexican Grill held a free queso promotion, this time it's giving away $100,000 in free burritos and $100,000 in Bitcoin through the "Burritos or Bitcoin" interactive game at www.burritosorbitcoin.com. The game runs from noon to 9 p.m. EST Thursday.
Each player gets 10 tries to guess a correct six-digit passcode for a chance to win a free burrito or up to $25,000 in Bitcoin.
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According to the fine print, no purchase is necessary to enter and the contest is open to legal residents in 50 states and Washington D.C. who are 18 or older. Among the prizes: 10,000 fans will win one free burrito, 50 win $500 in Bitcoin and three win $25,000 in Bitcoin.
Losers also could end up with a special offer, Chipotle said.
Burrito Day free food and deals
Here are the deals available at participating locations Thursday in Greater Cincinnati.
To be on the safe side, check with your closest location before heading out. Some offers will require you to have a restaurant’s app or be signed up for emails.
Chipotle Mexican Grill: The chain has its "Burritos or Bitcoin" interactive game at www.burritosorbitcoin.com. Also, earn rewards throughout the year with the Chipotle Rewards loyalty program.
Moe’s Southwest Grill: Moe's will have $5 burritos and bowls Thursday. The chain says no coupon or membership needed to get the deal.
Qdoba Mexican Eats: While not a National Burrito Day deal, the chain is offering free delivery on March Madness game days, Saturday to April 5 with a $15 minimum.
Taco Bell: New Taco Bell Rewards members can get a free Doritos Locos Tacos via the app for a limited time. Also from Thursday through April 5, there will be Chalupa Cravings Box buy-one-get-one offer via Uber Eats.
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Follow USA TODAY reporter Kelly Tyko on Twitter: @KellyTyko. Cincinnati Enquirer reporter Sarah Brookbank contributed to this report.
