National Nurses Week 2026: The Power of Nurses
In 2026, National Nurses Week will be observed from Wednesday, May 6, through Tuesday, May 12.
These dates are fixed every year, regardless of the calendar day, so that the celebration always concludes on the birthday of Florence Nightingale (May 12), the founder of modern nursing.
Important Dates During the Week
While the whole week is a celebration, there are specific days to keep on your radar:
- May 6 (Wednesday): National Nurses Day.
- May 8 (Friday): National Student Nurses Day.
- May 12 (Tuesday): International Nurses Day.
- May 13 (Wednesday): National School Nurse Day (traditionally celebrated the Wednesday within or following the week).
2026 Theme
The official theme for 2026, designated by the American Nurses Association (ANA), is “The Power of Nurses.”
Since we are currently right at the start of May, you’ll likely see many local businesses and national chains offering discounts or freebies (like coffee or meals) to healthcare workers starting this week!
For Nurses Week 2026, many major chains have already announced their offers, ranging from sweepstakes for free meals to significant retail discounts.
Most of these require verification through ID.me or SheerID, so it’s a good idea to have your credentials ready in your digital wallet.
Food & Drink
May 4 – 6
Sonny’s BBQ – Get a free BBQ sandwich (requires prior sign-up by April 30)
May 4 – 8
McAlister’s Deli – Enjoy a free Big Sweet Tea, Unsweet Tea, or Half & Half with valid medical ID.
May 6
Dunkin’ – Get a free medium Hot or Iced Coffee (no purchase necessary) at participating locations.
May 6 – 12
- Chipotle – Up to 100,000 nurses will win a free entrée e-gift card via a sweepstakes. Enter at healthcarethanks.chipotle.com.
May 6 – 12
- Insomnia Cookies – Get one free 6-pack of Classic Cookies with a $5 in-store purchase or a free individual cookie with no purchase.
May 6 – 12
- Buffalo Wild Wings – 20% off all orders for nurses with a valid ID.
Ongoing
- Outback Steakhouse – Year-round 10% Heroes Discount for medical staff.
Apparel & Gear
Many retail brands offer deeper discounts specifically during this week, though some are consistent year-round perks.
- Nike: 10% off most items via SheerID (can be requested every 7 days).
- Lululemon: 15% off online and in-store for nurses.
- Adidas: 30% off online and in-store after ID.me verification.
- ASICS: 40% off full-priced items (one of the highest discounts available this year).
- The North Face: 10% off for healthcare workers.
- YETI: 20% off select gear and up to 40% off Yonder water bottles.
- Stanley: 20% off tumblers and hydration gear via ID.me.
- The Nurse Gift Shop offers affordable and quality nurse t-shirts. They are not on sale right now, but they offer cool and unique t-shirt designs that you may want to check out by clicking here.
Travel & Wellness
- Walt Disney World: Use code “Y7N” online or ask for the “NURSES RATE” via phone for special resort pricing.
- Caesars Hotels: Up to 30% off room rates at locations like Caesars Palace and Planet Hollywood.
- Samsung: Up to 30% off tech products through the “Offers Program” for medical professionals.
- Thrive Market: Get a free one-year membership to the healthy grocery delivery service.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting a local mom-and-pop shop or a franchise that hasn’t officially advertised, it never hurts to ask. Many local businesses offer “unspoken” treats for healthcare workers during this week—just bring your badge!
Electronics & Tech
While tech deals aren’t always “free,” the professional discounts this week are significant.
- Samsung: Offers up to 30% off phones, tablets, and watches through their “Offer Program.” Look for specific bundles on the Galaxy Watch (great for timing vitals).
- Apple: While they don’t have a specific “Nurses Week” sale, their Education/Government store pricing is available year-round for healthcare workers with a verified ID.
- Verizon & AT&T: Both offer dedicated nurse plans. Verizon provides discounted pricing on mobile and home internet via ID.me verification.
- Oura Ring: Specifically offering 10% off the Oura Ring 4 for nurses this week.
- GE Appliances: If you’re looking for home tech, they are offering up to 41% off select appliances for healthcare staff.
Kindly share these freebie and discount offer tips with other nurses. Enjoy, and happy National Nurses Week 2026!
Disclaimer: I’m not a corporate spokesperson! The discounts and freebies mentioned in this post are for entertainment and educational purposes only. Businesses can be fickle, so please check their official websites or call ahead for the most updated information before you head out to the above businesses.!
