National Nurses Week 2026 runs from Tuesday, May 6, through Monday, May 12, 2026, marking the annual celebration and appreciation of nursing professionals across the United States.
This week-long observance coincides with National Nurses Day on Wednesday, May 6, and International Nurses Day on Tuesday, May 12—Florence Nightingale’s 206th birthday.
The 2026 celebration carries particular significance as the American Nurses Association celebrates its 130th anniversary while promoting the theme “The Power of Nurses”. The International Council of Nurses champions the parallel theme “Empowered Nurses Save Lives” for global recognition.
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When Is Nurses Week 2026?
Nurses Week 2026 occurs during the second full week of May, spanning seven consecutive days from Tuesday, May 6, through Monday, May 12, 2026.
This timing has remained consistent since 1994, when President Bill Clinton permanently designated the celebration dates. The week always begins on May 6 (National Nurses Day) and concludes on May 12 (International Nurses Day).
2026 Nurses Week Calendar
| Date | Day | Observance |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, May 6, 2026 | National Nurses Day | Official start of Nurses Week; National School Nurse Day |
| Friday, May 8, 2026 | National Student Nurses Day | Recognition for nursing students |
| Tuesday, May 12, 2026 | International Nurses Day | Florence Nightingale’s 206th birthday; Nurses Week conclusion |
The entire month of May serves as National Nurses Month, extending appreciation beyond the core week.
Canadian Nursing Week 2026 Dates
Canadian Nursing Week follows a different schedule: Monday, May 11, through Sunday, May 17, 2026. The Canadian Nurses Association aligns its week to end on May 12 (International Nurses Day) rather than begin on that date.
What Is the 2026 Nurses Week Theme?
The American Nurses Association designated “The Power of Nurses” as the official 2026 theme for National Nurses Week in the United States.
This theme emphasizes three core attributes:
- Resilience in healthcare delivery
- Leadership in patient advocacy
- Compassion in clinical practice
The International Council of Nurses selected “Empowered Nurses Save Lives” as the 2026 global theme for International Nurses Day. This message focuses on structural empowerment through safe staffing ratios, workplace autonomy, and professional development resources.
How Themes Differ From Previous Years
| Year | ANA Theme (US) | ICN Theme (Global) |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Nurses Make the Difference | Our Nurses. Our Future. |
| 2025 | Nurses: Your Care is The Greatest Gift | Our Nurses. Our Future. |
| 2026 | The Power of Nurses | Empowered Nurses Save Lives |
The 2026 themes shift focus from gratitude-based messaging toward action-oriented empowerment, reflecting nursing workforce priorities around burnout prevention and retention.
History of National Nurses Week
National Nurses Week originated through advocacy by Dorothy Sutherland of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in 1953. Sutherland proposed a national observance to President Dwight D. Eisenhower, but the proclamation was not issued.
The campaign gained momentum in 1974 when President Richard Nixon proclaimed a National Nurses Week. However, consistent annual observance did not occur until 1982.
Timeline of Official Recognition
- 1982: President Ronald Reagan signed the first proclamation designating May 6 as National Recognition Day for Nurses
- 1990: The American Nurses Association Board of Directors expanded the celebration to a week-long event (May 6–12)
- 1994: President Bill Clinton permanently designated National Nurses Week dates through a congressional resolution
The selection of May 12 honors Florence Nightingale, born on that date in 1820. Nightingale established the foundation of modern nursing through her work during the Crimean War and subsequent establishment of nursing education programs.
Who Celebrates Nurses Week?
Nursing Professionals Recognized
National Nurses Week celebrates multiple nursing roles and specializations:
Licensed Nursing Positions:
- Registered Nurses (RN)
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN)
- Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN)
- Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA)
- Nurse Practitioners (NP)
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)
Specialty Nursing Fields:
- Emergency Department nurses
- Intensive Care Unit nurses
- Oncology nurses
- Pediatric nurses
- Psychiatric mental health nurses
- Operating room nurses
- Home health nurses
- Travel nurses
- Telehealth nurses
Educational Settings:
- School nurses (separate recognition on Wednesday, May 6, 2026)
- Student nurses (separate recognition on Friday, May 8, 2026)
The United States employed 3.2 million registered nurses as of 2024, representing the largest segment of healthcare professionals.
How to Celebrate Nurses Week 2026
Meaningful Recognition Strategies
Healthcare organizations can implement appreciation initiatives that address workforce retention rather than symbolic gestures.
Structural Support Initiatives:
- Staffing Ratio Improvements: Implement safe patient-to-nurse ratios during the week and commit to permanent changes
- Mental Health Resources: Provide complimentary counseling sessions, mindfulness programs, or stress management workshops
- Professional Development: Offer paid continuing education credits, certification exam preparation courses, or tuition reimbursement announcements
- Schedule Flexibility: Grant shift preference requests, approve time-off requests, or provide additional PTO days
Virtual and Remote Celebration Ideas
For telehealth nurses, travel nurses, and distributed healthcare teams:
- Digital appreciation cards with personalized messages from leadership
- Virtual wellness sessions (yoga, meditation, nutrition counseling)
- Shipped care packages to home addresses with practical items
- Online recognition ceremonies with award presentations
- Virtual town halls featuring nurse testimonials and organizational updates
Specialty-Specific Recognition
Night Shift Nurses:
- Breakfast deliveries for overnight staff
- Quieter recognition events during typical sleep hours
- Sleep wellness gift kits (blackout masks, white noise machines, melatonin supplements)
Travel Nurses:
- Travel gear upgrades (luggage, portable chargers, compression socks)
- Per diem bonuses for the week
- Recognition in both home and assignment facilities
School Nurses:
- Classroom appreciation activities led by students
- Additional supplies for health offices
- Professional development specific to pediatric care
Nurses Week Gifts and Freebies 2026
National Restaurant and Retail Offers
Multiple national chains typically provide nurses’ week discounts and complimentary items during the May 6–12 period.
Expected Participating Companies (Based on Historical Patterns):
- Chipotle: Free entrée codes distributed through online registration (typically announced late April)
- Starbucks: Complimentary beverages for healthcare workers
- Dunkin’: Free medium hot or iced coffee offers
- Cinnabon: Free BonBites samples
- Great Clips: Discounted haircuts for nurses
Scrubs and Medical Apparel Discounts:
- FIGS: Typically 15-20% off collections during Nurses Week
- Cherokee Uniforms: Promotional pricing on core styles
- Crocs: Healthcare professional discounts on clogs and footwear
Specific 2026 offers will be announced between late March and mid-April 2026. Nurses should monitor brand social media channels and sign up for email lists in early 2026 for registration details.
Gift Ideas That Address Nurse Priorities
Research indicates 30-40% of nurses leave their first position within the first year due to burnout and inadequate support. Effective gifts align with stress reduction and professional growth rather than consumable items.
High-Impact Gift Categories:
| Advances in career development | Examples | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Time Recovery | Additional PTO day, schedule flexibility voucher | Addresses work-life balance concerns |
| Wellness Tools | Massage therapy sessions, gym memberships, meal delivery service gift cards | Supports physical and mental health |
| Professional Growth | Certification exam fee coverage, conference registration, professional journal subscriptions | Advances career development |
| Comfort Equipment | Compression socks, ergonomic footwear, back support accessories | Reduces physical strain from 12-hour shifts |
| Financial Recognition | Shift differential bonuses, retention bonuses, student loan repayment contributions | Acknowledges economic challenges |
What Nurses Say They Don’t Want
Analysis of nursing community discussions reveals consistent themes around ineffective appreciation:
- Generic branded merchandise (pens, mugs, keychains with hospital logos)
- Single-use food items (donuts, pizza) without addressing systemic issues
- “Hospital Week” celebrations that dilute specific nurse recognition
- Mandatory attendance at appreciation events during off-duty time
- Social media campaigns emphasizing employer branding over genuine support
Nurses emphasize preference for authentic organizational changes over symbolic gestures, particularly regarding safe staffing ratios and workplace violence prevention.
Nurses Week Events and Activities
Organization-Sponsored Programs
The American Nurses Association hosts multiple virtual and in-person events during National Nurses Month:
- Leadership development webinars
- Policy advocacy training sessions
- Wellness and resilience workshops
- Networking events for specialty practice groups
The American Nurses Foundation typically announces scholarship opportunities and grant programs during the May celebration period.
Community-Based Recognition
Local healthcare facilities, nursing schools, and professional chapters organize:
- Awards ceremonies recognizing clinical excellence
- Community health fairs featuring nurse-led education
- Blood drives coordinated by nursing staff
- Charity fundraisers supporting nursing education scholarships
Social Media Campaign Ideas
Healthcare organizations can amplify nurse recognition through digital platforms:
Content Formats:
- Individual nurse spotlights with career stories
- Day-in-the-life video series across different specialties
- Patient testimonials about nursing care impact
- Historical nursing profession evolution content
- Live Q&A sessions with nursing leadership
Hashtag Strategies:
- #NursesWeek2026
- #ThePowerOfNurses
- #NationalNursesWeek
- #EmpoweredNursesSaveLives
- #NurseAppreciationWeek
Campaigns should prioritize nurse voices and experiences rather than institutional messaging to maintain authenticity.
Nurses Week Planning Timeline for Employers
Organizations should begin Nurses Week 2026 preparation in early 2026 to secure vendor partnerships and budget approvals.
Quarter 1 (January–March 2026)
- January: Establish budget allocation, form planning committee with nurse representation
- February: Survey nursing staff about preferred recognition methods, research vendor options for gifts or catering
- March: Finalize celebration plan, secure executive approvals, order custom items requiring production time
Quarter 2 (April–May 2026)
- Early April: Communicate celebration plans to all nursing staff, begin promotional materials
- Mid-April: Confirm vendor deliveries, finalize event logistics, and prepare awards or recognition certificates
- Late April: Distribute schedule for week-long activities, send calendar invitations for events
- May 6–12: Execute celebration activities, document participation, gather feedback
Post-Event Evaluation
Collect nurse feedback through anonymous surveys measuring:
- Perceived authenticity of recognition efforts
- Impact on workplace morale
- Suggestions for future improvements
- Retention sentiment changes
Organizations with meaningful Nurses Week programs report reduced turnover costs averaging $2.6–4.5 million annually by improving nurse satisfaction and reducing the need for replacement hiring.
Addressing Nurse Burnout During Nurses Week 2026
Current Workforce Challenges
The nursing profession faces significant retention obstacles beyond appreciation week celebrations:
- Staffing shortages: Many facilities operate 10-20% below optimal nurse-to-patient ratios
- Mental health impact: Nurses report elevated rates of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress
- Physical demands: 12-hour shifts with minimal break opportunities cause cumulative fatigue
- Workplace violence: Healthcare workers experience assault rates 5 times higher than those in other industries
- Compensation concerns: Nurse salaries have not kept pace with inflation and education costs
Substantive Support Initiatives
Effective Nurses Week 2026 programs should announce or implement structural changes:
Immediate Actions:
- Increase base compensation or shift differentials effective May 6, 2026
- Hire additional staff to improve ratios
- Install workplace violence prevention technology (panic buttons, security presence)
- Expand break room facilities with private rest spaces
Long-term Commitments:
- Multi-year retention bonus programs
- Enhanced benefits packages (increased PTO, childcare assistance, student loan repayment)
- Career ladder advancement opportunities with defined pathways
- Nurse-led governance committees with decision-making authority
Organizations that combine symbolic appreciation with tangible workplace improvements demonstrate authentic commitment to nursing workforce sustainability.
International Nurses Day 2026 Global Perspective
While National Nurses Week is specific to the United States and Canada, International Nurses Day on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, represents global nursing recognition coordinated by the International Council of Nurses.
ICN Global Theme Implementation
The “Empowered Nurses Save Lives” theme addresses worldwide nursing challenges:
- Healthcare access disparities in underserved regions
- Nurse safety in conflict zones and disaster areas
- Professional regulation and licensing standardization
- Gender equity in nursing leadership positions (the profession remains 90% female globally)
International Celebration Variations
Different countries observe nursing recognition on alternative dates or with extended timeframes:
- United Kingdom: International Nurses Day (May 12) only, without a week-long observance
- Australia: International Year of the Nurse continued recognition efforts
- Philippines: Nursing Week is typically celebrated from October 15-21
- India: National Nurses Week is observed during February
The Florence Nightingale birthday anchor (May 12) provides global consistency despite regional variations in celebration structure.
Resources for Nurses Week 2026 Planning
Professional Organization Materials
American Nurses Association:
- Official theme toolkit with graphics and messaging templates
- Proclamation templates for local government recognition
- Awards program nomination guidelines
- Continuing education webinar catalog
American Nurses Foundation:
- Grant application information for nursing research
- Scholarship opportunities for continuing education
- Nursing innovation challenge details
National Student Nurses’ Association:
- Student-specific celebration resources
- Career development programming schedule
- Mentorship program connection opportunities
Employer Planning Resources
Healthcare facilities can access:
- Sample CEO letters to nursing staff
- Event planning checklists and timelines
- Budget templates for celebration activities
- Employee survey templates for feedback collection
- Recognition certificate templates
Educational Materials
Nursing schools should incorporate:
- Florence Nightingale historical curriculum additions
- Professional development career path discussions
- Ethics and advocacy training modules
- Transition-to-practice preparation content
Nurses Week 2026 and the ANA 130th Anniversary
The American Nurses Association marks 130 years of nursing advocacy in 2026, having been founded in 1896 as the Nurses Associated Alumnae.
This milestone anniversary intersects with Nurses Week 2026 to create expanded recognition opportunities:
- Historical retrospectives on nursing profession evolution
- Legacy awards honoring transformational nurse leaders
- Recommitment to the founding principles of professional advocacy
- Forward-looking initiatives addressing 2030 workforce needs
The dual celebration provides context for examining the nursing profession’s progress while addressing contemporary challenges facing the 2026 workforce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nurses Week 2026
When is Nurses Week 2026?
National Nurses Week 2026 is Tuesday, May 6, through Monday, May 12, 2026. The week begins with National Nurses Day and concludes with International Nurses Day on Florence Nightingale’s birthday.
Is Nurses Week the same dates every year?
Yes, Nurses Week occurs May 6–12 annually. President Bill Clinton permanently designated these dates in 1994 through a congressional resolution. The consistent timing allows healthcare organizations to plan recognition activities in advance each year.
What is the difference between National Nurses Day and National Nurses Week?
National Nurses Day is a single day (May 6) that marks the beginning of National Nurses Week. Nurses Day focuses on immediate recognition, while the full week extends celebrations through seven consecutive days ending on International Nurses Day (May 12).
Do all nurses get freebies during Nurse Appreciation Week?
Freebie availability varies by company and requires verification of nursing credentials. Most national chains announce their specific 2026 offers between late March and mid-April. Nurses typically need to present a valid nursing license, employee badges, or register online in advance to claim promotional items.
What is the 2026 Nurses Week theme?
The American Nurses Association’s theme for 2026 is “The Power of Nurses”. The International Council of Nurses uses the parallel theme “Empowered Nurses Save Lives” for global International Nurses Day recognition on May 12, 2026.
How do I get Chipotle free food for Nurse Appreciation Week 2026?
Chipotle typically releases free entrée codes through online registration in late April. Nurses must create an account, verify their credentials, and receive a unique promo code for redemption during specified dates within Nurses Week. The 2026 registration details will be announced on Chipotle’s website and social media channels approximately 2-3 weeks before May 6, 2026.
Can nursing students participate in National Nurses Week celebrations?
Yes, nursing students have dedicated recognition on National Student Nurses Day, Friday, May 8, 2026. Many Nurses Week events, freebies, and educational programs include nursing students alongside licensed professionals. Some promotions may require student ID verification rather than nursing license credentials.
Why is Nurses Week in May?
May was selected to honor Florence Nightingale, born May 12, 1820. Nightingale established modern nursing principles and the first professional nursing school. The week encompasses her birthday as International Nurses Day, providing historical significance to the celebration timing.
What do nurses actually want for Nurses Week?
Nurses prioritize structural workplace improvements over symbolic gifts. Survey data and community feedback indicate preferences for safe staffing ratios, competitive compensation, mental health resources, schedule flexibility, professional development opportunities, and workplace safety enhancements rather than consumable items or branded merchandise.
Is Nurses Week only celebrated in the United States?
No, nursing recognition occurs globally but with different formats and dates. The United States observes National Nurses Week (May 6–12). Canada celebrates Nursing Week (May 11–17). International Nurses Day (May 12) is recognized in over 130 countries worldwide, coordinated by the International Council of Nurses.
Do travel nurses get recognized during Nurse Appreciation Week?
Yes, travel nurses receive recognition from both their staffing agencies and assignment facilities. Many travel nursing companies provide bonuses, gift packages, or per diem increases during Nurses Week. Assignment hospitals typically include travel nurses in facility-wide celebration activities and freebie distributions.
How can employers celebrate Nurses Week meaningfully?
Meaningful celebration combines immediate recognition with long-term organizational improvements. Effective strategies include announcing permanent staffing ratio improvements, implementing mental health support programs, providing professional development funding, increasing compensation or benefits, and creating nurse-led governance structures that address systemic workplace challenges.
What is the difference between Nurses Week and Hospital Week?
Nurses Week specifically honors nursing professionals (May 6–12), while Hospital Week celebrates all healthcare workers (typically the second week of May). Some organizations combine the celebrations, which nurses report dilutes specific recognition of nursing contributions. Best practice maintains separate, distinct observances for each group.
Are there Nurse Appreciation Week events I can attend?
The American Nurses Association and state nursing organizations host virtual webinars, leadership workshops, and networking events throughout May. Local healthcare facilities typically organize awards ceremonies, community health fairs, and recognition luncheons. Event schedules are published on ANA websites and facility internal communications in April 2026.
How do school nurses celebrate Nurses Week?
School nurses have dedicated recognition on National School Nurse Day, Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Celebrations often include classroom appreciation activities led by students, recognition at school board meetings, social media spotlights from school districts, and supplies or equipment donations for health offices.
What should I write in a Nurses Week card?
Effective messages acknowledge specific contributions and professional impact rather than generic phrases. Include references to particular patient care examples, leadership during challenging situations, mentorship of colleagues, or clinical expertise demonstrations. Authentic, personalized recognition resonates more than standard thank-you templates.
Can I nominate a nurse for an award during Nurses Week?
Yes, multiple nursing organizations accept award nominations during May. The DAISY Award Foundation accepts year-round nominations for clinical excellence. The American Nurses Association announces specialty awards during Nurses Week. Individual healthcare facilities typically have internal recognition programs with nomination deadlines in March or early April for May ceremonies.
Do nurses get paid extra during Nurse Appreciation Week?
Extra compensation depends on employer policies rather than universal requirements. Some organizations provide one-time bonuses, shift differential increases, or retention incentives announced during Nurses Week. No federal or state mandate requires additional pay specifically for the celebration week.
How long has Nurses Week been celebrated?
The organized national celebration began in 1982 when President Ronald Reagan proclaimed National Recognition Day for Nurses on May 6. The American Nurses Association expanded it to a week-long observance in 1990. Permanent designation of May 6–12 as National Nurses Week occurred in 1994 under President Bill Clinton.
What is the best gift for a nurse during Nurses Week?
High-value gifts address professional development, wellness, or time recovery needs. Top-rated options include certification exam fee coverage, continuing education course registration, massage therapy sessions, meal delivery service subscriptions, quality compression socks, ergonomic footwear, additional paid time off, or contributions toward student loan repayment.
Final Considerations for Meaningful Nurse Appreciation Week 2026
National Nurses Week 2026 serves as an annual checkpoint for healthcare organizations to evaluate their support systems for nursing professionals.
Effective celebrations move beyond performative gestures toward substantive organizational changes that improve daily work conditions, professional development access, and long-term career sustainability.
The week provides opportunity for:
- Renewed commitment to safe staffing legislation advocacy
- Enhanced workplace safety protocol implementation
- Transparent communication about retention strategies
- Recognition of nursing contributions to patient outcomes and organizational success
Organizations that leverage Nurse Appreciation Week 2026 as a catalyst for authentic structural improvements rather than isolated appreciation events create lasting impact on nursing workforce stability and patient care quality.
Tuesday, May 6, 2026, through Monday, May 12, 2026, represents more than symbolic recognition—it serves as an accountability moment for healthcare systems to demonstrate genuine investment in the nursing professionals who constitute the foundation of patient care delivery.
