Five Guys Celebrates 40th Anniversary with After Party

Fast-casual burger chain offers buy one, get one free deal to mark milestone

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Five Guys is celebrating its 40th anniversary by bringing back a buy one, get one free (BOGO) burger promotion from March 9-12, 2026. The initial BOGO offer on the company's actual birthday on February 17 was overwhelmed by customer demand, leading to service issues. For the "After Party" promotion, Five Guys says it has replenished supplies and prepared its crews to handle the expected high volume.

Why it matters

Five Guys has grown from a single carry-out spot in Arlington, Virginia in 1986 to nearly 2,000 locations worldwide, making it one of the most successful fast-casual burger chains. The 40th anniversary celebration highlights the company's longevity and family-owned roots, as well as its commitment to quality ingredients and customer service, even when faced with unexpected demand.

The details

The BOGO promotion allows customers to purchase any burger at regular menu price and receive a second burger of equal or lesser value for free. Customers can redeem the offer by ordering online at FiveGuys.com or through the Five Guys app. As a thank you to employees, Five Guys will also distribute approximately $1.5 million in bonuses to store crews across the system.

  • Five Guys was founded in 1986.
  • The company's 40th birthday was on February 17, 2026.
  • The 40th Anniversary After Party promotion runs from March 9-12, 2026.

The players

Five Guys

A global fast-casual leader known for quality ingredients and customizable burgers, founded in 1986 in Arlington, Virginia.

Jerry Murrell

The founder of Five Guys, who presented his sons with the choice to go to college or start a business, leading to the creation of the company.

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What they’re saying

“We were genuinely humbled by your response. Forty years is a long time, and the outpouring of support for our 40th birthday reminded us why we love what we do.”

— Jerry Murrell, Founder (globenewswire.com)

What’s next

The 40th Anniversary After Party promotion runs from March 9-12, 2026, giving customers a second chance to take advantage of the buy one, get one free burger deal.

The takeaway

Five Guys' 40th anniversary celebration showcases the company's ability to adapt and respond to unexpected demand, while also highlighting its commitment to quality, family values, and customer service that have allowed it to thrive for four decades as a leading fast-casual burger brand.