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National Nurses Week

It's time to honor and appreciate the hardworking heroes in scrubs during National Nurses Week - don't forget to thank a nurse!

Thursday

6–12

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMay 6-12 (Florence Nightingale week)

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYHealthcare

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars for May 6-12 because it's time to celebrate National Nurses Week! This week-long celebration was first established in 1954 by the American Nurses Association to honor and recognize the hard work and dedication of nurses across the country. From providing compassionate care to saving lives, nurses play a vital role in our healthcare system and deserve all the recognition they can get. So let's take this week to show our appreciation for these amazing healthcare heroes who make a difference in our lives every day!

TIMELINE

National Nurses Week Timeline

Florence Nightingale Born

Florence Nightingale, prominent nursing pioneer honoured during National Nurses Week, was born on May 12.

First National Nurse Week

The first observance of National Nurse Week took place in January 1954 commemorating the 100th anniversary of Nightingale's mission in Crimea.

ANA Shifts Date

The American Nurses Association Board of Directors changed the date to May to celebrate on the week ending on Nightingale's birthday.

Recognized by Congress

Congress officially recognized National Nurses Week after efforts from New Mexico nurses led by Mercedes Van Durme.

ANA Finalizes Dates

The American Nurses Association Board of Directors designated May 6-12 as permanent dates to observe National Nurses Week.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Nurses Week

Host a nurse appreciation luncheon

Gather some friends and family members to celebrate the nurses in your life with a special luncheon dedicated to them. Show them how much they are appreciated for their hard work and dedication.

SEND

Send thank you cards to local hospitals

Take the time to write thank you cards to the nurses at your local hospitals. Let them know how much their efforts and sacrifices are appreciated by the community.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraiser for a nursing charity

Use this week as an opportunity to give back to the nursing community by organizing a fundraiser for a nursing charity. This could be a fun run, silent auction, or any other creative event.

CREATE

Create a social media campaign to recognize nurses

Spread the love for nurses by creating a social media campaign to recognize their hard work and dedication. Use hashtags like #NationalNursesWeek or #NurseAppreciation to bring attention to their important role in healthcare.

ATTEND

Attend a nursing conference or workshop

Take this week as an opportunity to invest in yourself and your career by attending a nursing conference or workshop. You'll learn new skills and meet other nurses who share your passion for the field.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Nurses Week is Important

It promotes self-care among nurses

Nurses are notorious for putting their own health and well-being on the back burner while caring for others. National Nurses Week serves as a reminder for nurses to prioritize their own self-care and well-being. It also encourages healthcare organizations to provide resources and support for nurse self-care throughout the year.

It recognizes and appreciates nurses' hard work and dedication

National Nurses Week is a time to honor and celebrate the tireless efforts of nurses. Their job is demanding, both mentally and physically, and they often go above and beyond the call of duty to care for their patients. This week allows us to show our gratitude for all that they do.

It raises awareness about the importance of nursing

During National Nurses Week, there are often events and activities that focus on educating the public about the crucial role that nurses play in our healthcare system. It's a chance for people to learn more about what it takes to be a nurse and recognize the vital contributions they make to our society.

Related holidays

THU

May 2026

Careers

National Nurses Day

Show your appreciation for nurses this National Nurses Day! Show your support with donations, cards, and kind words to recognize their hard work.

International Nurses Day

Honor the heroes on International Nurses Day - thank them for their hard work and dedication to keeping us safe!

National Student Nurse Day

On National Student Nurse Day, we honor the hardworking and compassionate individuals who are dedicated to caring for others. Thank you, student nurses!

National Hospital Week

Join us in saluting the heroes of healthcare – let's celebrate National Hospital Week and honor these life-saving institutions!

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