National Nurses Week is here, kicking off on May 6 and running through May 12, coinciding with Teacher Appreciation Week. This annual celebration honors the vital contributions of nurses worldwide, recognizing their unwavering commitment to patient care and health advocacy. This year, the theme for National Nurses Day is "Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies," emphasizing the essential role nurses play in maintaining public health.
The origins of National Nurses Week date back to 1954, when the first observance was held from October 11 to 16 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale's mission in Crimea. Despite a proposal from Dorothy Sutherland of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in 1953 to establish a "Nurse Day," it wasn't until 1974 that President Nixon officially proclaimed National Nurse Week to be celebrated annually in May.
National Nurses Day, observed every year on May 6, serves as the starting point for the week-long celebration. It aims to raise awareness about the critical role nurses play in healthcare, from direct patient care to medication administration and health promotion. Nurses are integral to the healthcare system, responsible for monitoring patients, administering treatments, and advocating for health improvements.
As part of this year's celebrations, various restaurants and businesses are offering special discounts and freebies to nurses. For instance, Aroma Joe’s is giving nurses a free 24-ounce drink on May 7, while Buffalo Wild Wings is offering a 20% discount from May 5 to May 11 for nurses who show a valid ID. Dunn Brothers Coffee is also celebrating by allowing nurses to buy two medium coffee-based drinks for just $10.
In a show of appreciation, Goode Company is providing a 15% discount on its website through May 30 for TODAY.com readers, while Gopuff is offering 10% off all orders delivered to hospitals on May 8. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria is giving nurses 15% off all orders from May 5 to May 9 with valid ID.
Nurses can also enjoy discounts at Happy Joe’s, where they can receive 20% off their meals from May 6 to May 12. HTeaO is running a buy one, get one free deal on all cups of tea from May 5 to May 9 for nurses showing valid ID. Insomnia Cookies is offering a buy-one, get-one-free deal on Classic cookies from May 5 to May 11 as a thank you to nurses.
Logan’s Roadhouse is giving nurses 20% off their entrées from May 5 to May 12, while Mountain Mike’s Pizza is running a 15% off promotion on all pizzas between May 6 and May 9. Noodles & Company is also participating, allowing customers to save 15% off catering orders of $150 or more through May 12.
Potbelly is offering a free cookie or regular-sized fountain drink with any entrée purchase through May 11 for nurses showing ID. Premier Protein is providing a 30% discount on its 6-Pack Shakes on Amazon between May 5 and May 12, while Pret A Manger has a 15% off catering deal available using the code PretCares2025.
On May 6, nurses and healthcare workers can get a free medium drink at participating Scooter’s Coffee locations, and Shipley Do-Nuts is offering a free half dozen doughnuts for loyalty members from May 4 to May 6. Smoothie King is providing a 20% discount on orders for nurses from May 6 to May 8, and Sonny’s BBQ is giving away a free Pork Big Deal (pulled or sliced pork sandwich, a sidekick, and a drink) from May 5 to May 7 with a verified coupon.
The Greene Turtle is also showing appreciation by giving nurses a free meal (up to $15) while dining in on May 6. Tiff’s Treats is offering 15% off cookie orders between May 5 and May 9 using the code 15TIFFS, and Tijuana Flats is providing 20% off dine-in or carryout purchases on May 7 with a valid ID and the code NURTEA25.
Tim Hortons is marking National Nurses Week with a buy one, get one free doughnut deal from May 6 to May 12, as well as a promotion where customers can buy a dozen doughnuts and get six free during the same period. Twang is offering a 10% discount on all products using the code TODAY10, valid through May 12.
As we celebrate National Nurses Week, it’s essential to reflect on the tremendous impact nurses have on our health and well-being. Their dedication and compassion are integral to the healthcare system, and this week serves as a reminder to express our gratitude for their hard work and commitment.
In addition to the discounts and deals, many organizations and communities are encouraged to recognize the efforts of nurses throughout the week. Whether through a simple thank you or participating in local events, everyone can contribute to honoring the incredible work nurses do every day.
As National Nurses Week unfolds, let’s take a moment to appreciate the real-life superheroes in scrubs who tirelessly work to care for others. Their commitment does not go unnoticed, and this week is a perfect opportunity to celebrate their invaluable contributions to society.
With a history that spans over six decades, National Nurses Week has evolved into a significant event that not only honors nurses but also highlights the importance of nursing as a profession. As we observe this week, let’s commit to supporting and advocating for nurses, recognizing their role in shaping the future of healthcare.
