Whataburger, which started in Corpus Christi 75 years ago, gave people trinkets and collectibles to thank them for their service to the conglomerate.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Whataburger’s 75th anniversary celebration brought a wave of hometown pride to Whataburger Field on Friday night, where Hooks players took the field in special Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit uniforms.
Fans filled the stands in a sea of orange to mark the milestone for the Corpus Christi-born burger chain, which opened its first location in 1950.
“Whataburger is 75 years young, and we have so much ahead of us,” said Whataburger President and CEO Debbie Stroud. “We’re honored to be here right back at the Hooks stadium in our hometown of Corpus Christi where it all began. It’s a really special moment for us.”
For many, the brand is more than just a place to eat.
“When you’re born here and you grow up with it, it just kind of sticks with you,” said fan Lucinda Perez. “Throughout your life it’s just a staple. You always go to Whataburger for anything.”
Stroud said the celebration is about the people who make the chain possible.
“Our people — and that means people on both sides of the counter,” she said. “We love our team members who put on the orange every day to serve bold flavors, and we love our customers. That’s what today’s been all about.”
Longtime fans also shared their favorite menu items. Perez said she usually orders chicken strips or a double-patty burger. Others named the bacon cheeseburger or chicken strips as their go-to choices.
The celebration at the ballpark added to a day of events recognizing the company’s diamond anniversary, blending baseball, food and community in the city where Whataburger began.