Nurses Week is May 6th to May 12th, 2026! 
Each year, communities across the world join together to celebrate National Nurses Week. 2026 marks a significant milestone for the American Nurses Association (ANA): 130 years of service. This year’s theme is The Power Of Nurses.
East Ohio College (EOC) is committed to making nurses’ voices heard, advocating for advancements, and training the next generation of healthcare professionals. Keep reading this blog to learn more about the significance of Nurses Week and how you can celebrate too!
What Is Nurses Week?
Nurses Week is a significant annual celebration that highlights the important work nurses do across the country and around the world. From hospitals and clinics to long-term care facilities and community health settings, nurses are connected to their communities and are dedicated to caring for others.
The history dates back decades, with the first official observance in 1954. The recognition week, which starts on May 6th, marks National Nurses Day and wraps up on May 12th, which is Florence Nightingale’s birthday. Throughout Nurses Week, the goal is to spread awareness and appreciation for the impact that nurses have on society.
This week provides an opportunity to reflect on the skill, knowledge, and compassion that nurses bring to the healthcare field. They work long, tiresome shifts in high-pressure environments while balancing emotional, mental, and physical challenges. A nurse’s ability to put their own needs aside to care for their patients makes them vital to the medical team. Nurses are superheroes in scrubs, and they deserve the recognition throughout Nurses Week and beyond!
Important Dates During Nurses Week
While Nurses Week celebrations are held throughout the week of May 6th-12th, several significant days offer specialized recognition.
May 6th – National Nurses Day
May 6th – National School Nurse Day
May 8th – National Student Nurse Day
May 12th – International Nurses Day
No matter where you or your loved one fits, Nurses Week is an opportunity to honor and recognize the hard work, sacrifice, and power of nurses everywhere.
How To Celebrate A Nurse in Your Life
Celebrations during Nurses Week can vary, but they often involve recognition events, appreciation gifts, and community education. Healthcare organizations may take this time to highlight the significant achievements of the nurses. Still, there are things you can do as an individual to make the nurses in your life feel appreciated.
One meaningful way to express appreciation is through personalized gratitude. A handwritten note, heartfelt message, or social media post can go a long way in making a nurse feel seen. Recognizing that the emotional and mental demands of their job are as important as the physical aspect can help prove that you understand and value their career.
Another way to show appreciation to nurses you’re close with is to give the gift of rest and relaxation. Nurses often spend long hours on their feet, so offering to help with household responsibilities, making a home-cooked meal, or running errands can take a much-needed weight off their shoulders.
Finally, many companies give freebies and discounts to healthcare professionals during Nurses Week. Sharing a list of places where nurses can take advantage of reduced costs can be a great way to encourage them to treat themselves during this week.
Join EOC School of Nursing
Be part of the next generation of registered nurses* with training from East Ohio College! Get started on the path to your nursing career by requesting information today.
Happy Nurses Week from East Ohio College!
*Passing the NCLEX-RN licensure exam is required to become a Registered Nurse.
Certifying entities are independent and not affiliated with or connected to East Ohio College in any manner.