National Nurses Day: National Nurses Week is more than a calendar event, it represents a nationwide appreciation for the professionals who keep healthcare systems running. National Nurses Week 2026 is celebrated from May 6-12 and several restaurants are providing freebies and discounts beginning as early as May 4th. This yearly celebration not only honors nurses but also offers a wave of limited-time perks, from free meals to exclusive discounts.

National Nurses Day: Why Nurses Week Matters

Nurses Week was established in 1990 and happens annually from May 6 through May 12 every year. May 12 signifies the birthday of Florence Nightingale, widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing. Known as the “Lady with the Lamp” for her work in the Crimean War, she later established the first professional nursing school at St. Thomas’ Hospital in London in 1860. The week is made to recognize nurses’ contributions and dedication across the United States.

Major Food Deals and Freebies

Brands across the country are stepping up with offers for nurses and healthcare professionals :

• Duck Donuts: On May 8, nurses can receive a free medium hot coffee or cold brew in-store with ID. Plus, 20% off online orders more than $50 with the code THANKYOU2026 (valid at participating locations).
• Insomnia Cookies: Between May 5 and May 12, rewards members can avail a buy-one-get-one-free cookie offer in-store with valid ID. They also provide 20% off bulk online orders using code EARNEDIT26.
• McAlister’s Deli: Free sweet or unsweet tea from May 4–8 with valid ID—no purchase needed.
• MOD Pizza: Purchase one MOD-size pizza or salad and get another free from May 4–7 when ordering in-store with a work badge.
• Potbelly Sandwich Works: Free cookie or fountain beverage with entrée purchase from May 4–12, plus 10% off catering orders more than $200 with the code SAVE10.
• Ruby Tuesday: Free Garden Bar add-on with entrée purchase May 5–6 using code THANKYOU26. Also offering 20% off catering orders more than $150 with code SCHOOLDEAL.
• Scooter’s Coffee: Free medium drink on May 5 by showing a valid healthcare ID (in-store only).

Additional Nationwide Offers

• Dunkin’: Free medium hot or iced coffee on May 6 with valid nurse ID.
• Applebee’s: Free or discounted menu items, differs by location.
• Chick-fil-A: Certain outlets may offer complimentary or reduced-price items; local verification is advised.
• Caribou Coffee: Free large coffee or cold press on May 6 with ID.
• Einstein Bros. Bagels: Offers a free bagel with shmear alongside a purchase on May 6.
• FlutterHabit: 30% off products from May 4–12 via ID verification.

What to Know Before You Go

Most deals require valid medical ID and are limited to participating locations. Some offers are dine-in only, while others need rewards memberships or promo codes. Availability may differ by areas, so checking ahead is advised.

A Week of Gratitude

National Nurses Week returns every May as an opportunity to show gratitude toward frontline healthcare professionals. Whether through a free beverage, a discounted dish, or a small gesture, these promotions symbolize a broader acknowledgment of the essential role nurses fulfill daily.

FAQs:

Q1. What is National Nurses Week?
It is an annual celebration honoring nurses and their contributions to healthcare. It runs from May 6 to May 12 each year.

Q2. Why does Nurses Week end on May 12?
May 12 marks the birthday of Florence Nightingale. She is considered the founder of modern nursing.