How to Celebrate National Nurses Day: 20+ Ways to Show Appreciation

💙 Because Their Dedication Deserves More Than Just a Thank You

Every year on May 6, National Nurses Day offers us the chance to pause, reflect, and honor a group of people who give so much of themselves, often without expecting anything in return. Nurses are the heart of healthcare. They comfort us when we’re vulnerable, advocate for us when we can’t speak, and care for us with grace, grit, and compassion—day in and day out.

Their impact isn’t just clinical—it’s deeply human. From the nurse who holds your hand before surgery, to the one who stays late to make sure your child gets that extra blanket, their work is woven into the very moments we remember most.

That’s why celebrating National Nurses Day is more than a kind gesture—it’s a necessity. It’s about recognizing those moments, uplifting spirits, and reminding nurses that they are seen, valued, and cherished by everyone they serve.

In this guide, you’ll find 20+ meaningful, creative, and heartfelt ways to show appreciation—whether you’re a hospital administrator, coworker, patient, local business owner, or simply someone who wants to say “thank you” the right way. From decorating nurses’ stations and hosting relaxation hours, to writing thank-you cards, sponsoring community giveaways, or compiling tribute videos, these ideas are crafted to help you celebrate nurses with sincerity and joy.

Because when we care for those who care for us, we build a stronger, kinder, more compassionate world—one nurse at a time.

🏥 5 Meaningful Ways Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities Can Celebrate National Nurses Day

Every year on May 6th, hospitals and clinics across the United States have the opportunity to celebrate the backbone of healthcare: nurses. These compassionate, dedicated professionals are there for patients at every moment—from emergencies to recoveries, birth to end-of-life care. National Nurses Day is the perfect chance to pause and say, “We see you. We appreciate you. And we thank you.”

If you’re part of a hospital leadership team, HR department, or administration staff, you might be wondering: What’s the best way to honor our nurses on this special day? Great news—it doesn’t have to be extravagant. In fact, the most meaningful celebrations are often thoughtful, simple, and straight from the heart.

Below are five detailed, heartfelt ways hospitals and healthcare facilities can honor their nurses in 2025. These ideas aren’t just gestures—they’re ways to build morale, strengthen team culture, and show genuine appreciation.

1. 🎉 Host a Recognition Ceremony: Shine the Spotlight Where It Belongs

Nurses often work quietly behind the scenes, offering comfort and care without ever asking for praise. That’s why a well-planned recognition ceremony can mean so much. It’s not about grand stages or fancy venues—it’s about making space to say “thank you” in a meaningful and memorable way.

You could:

• Present certificates of appreciation or personalized plaques.
• Read patient testimonials or invite families to share short thank-you messages.
• Let each unit nominate one nurse for an “Above & Beyond” award.
• Stream the ceremony for remote staff and night-shift nurses to join.

If possible, invite senior leadership—CEOs, department heads, or even board members—to deliver words of gratitude. Having leaders publicly acknowledge nurses’ contributions not only boosts morale but reinforces a culture of appreciation within your institution.

🎤 Pro tip: End the ceremony with cake, snacks, or a small celebration so staff can relax and connect afterward.

2. 💬 Create a Gratitude Wall: Build a Visual Tribute to Their Impact

Sometimes, a few kind words go further than a fancy gift. A Gratitude Wall is a powerful way to bring those words to life—right in the heart of the hospital. Whether it’s a temporary display in a hallway, a bulletin board in the break room, or a rotating screen of messages in the lobby, this is one idea that truly leaves a mark.

Invite staff, patients, and even families to:

• Write notes of appreciation.
• Share stories of how a nurse changed their life.
• Post drawings from kids.
• Leave quotes, wishes or prayers for encouragement.

Not only does this become a beautiful focal point for Nurses Day, but it can also stay up all week during National Nurses Week (May 6–12). Some hospitals even create digital Gratitude Walls so people can submit messages online, which are then printed or displayed in a slideshow.

❤️ Why it works: Nurses walk past this every day. Seeing their impact, in writing, reaffirms their purpose—and sometimes brings a few happy tears.

3. 🛋️ Refresh the Break Room: Create a Space of Rest and Renewal

Nurses spend their days (and nights) caring for others. But how often do they have a space that cares for them?

Refreshing the break room is a gesture that combines appreciation with long-lasting benefit. Even small updates can transform this space from “functional” to “restorative.” Imagine how meaningful it would feel to walk into your break room on May 6 and see it filled with comfort, calm, and kindness.

Here’s how to make it happen:

• Add cozy chairs or cushioned seating.
• Bring in warm lighting (soft lamps or fairy lights).
• Diffuse calming scents like lavender or peppermint.
• Offer snacks, granola bars, fruit, and drinks (yes—stock that fridge with flavored sparkling water!).
• Include books, magazines, puzzles, or coloring books for short mental breaks.
• Add plants or flowers for a pop of nature.

🧘‍♀️ Optional bonus: Invite a local massage therapist or yoga instructor to offer short sessions throughout the day. Even 10-minute chair massages can work wonders for nurses on a long shift.

4. 🎁 Distribute Branded Gifts: Practical, Thoughtful, and Personal

Gifts don’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. In fact, simple, functional items with a personal or professional touch often become daily reminders of appreciation.

Consider these branded gift ideas:

• Reusable water bottles with your hospital’s logo and a fun Nurses Day quote.
• Scrub caps or compression socks in playful patterns.
• Badge reels or retractable clips with inspiring words like “Nurse Strong” or “Compassion in Action.”
• Tote bags, mugs, or phone stands.
• Journals or wellness planners.

Want to go the extra mile? Personalize each item with the nurse’s name, department, or years of service. You could also assemble custom gift bags for each unit—filled with snacks, pens, hand sanitizer, lotion, and handwritten notes.

🎁 Pro tip: Don’t forget your night-shift team! Make sure every nurse, no matter their schedule, receives the same level of recognition.

5. 🧁 Provide a Meal or Sweet Treat: Fuel the Body, Warm the Heart

Let’s be honest—food is love, especially in a busy hospital setting where grabbing a proper meal can feel like a luxury. Providing a catered meal, breakfast bar, or sweet treat station on National Nurses Day is a tangible way to show you care.

Here are a few ideas to make it special:

• Partner with a local restaurant or bakery to cater breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
• Set up a build-your-own yogurt parfait or smoothie bar in the morning.
• Offer a cupcake or cookie decorating station with Nurses Day themes.
• Create a “snack cart” that rolls around to each unit, offering chips, trail mix, granola bars, and drinks.
• Surprise the night shift with pizza, burritos, or a warm breakfast-for-dinner spread.

🍽️ Make it feel like a party: Add decorations, thank-you signs, and music to create a festive atmosphere. Even a small effort in presentation can go a long way.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Patients & Families: Heartfelt Ways to Thank Nurses on National Nurses Day

When you or a loved one has been under medical care, it’s often the nurses who leave the biggest imprint on your heart. Their kindness during a tough diagnosis, their gentle words during uncertainty, their steady hands during emergencies—these moments may feel routine to a nurse, but they’re life-changing for the people they serve.

National Nurses Day, celebrated each year on May 6, is the perfect time for patients and families to reflect on that care and say “Thank you.” Whether it’s been weeks or even years since your hospital stay, it’s never too late to express your gratitude.

Here are three heartfelt ways you can show appreciation and celebrate the nurses who made a difference in your life:

6. 💌 Write Thank-You Cards or E-Cards: Words from the Heart

There’s something timeless and powerful about a handwritten note. In a world filled with texts and emails, a thank-you card stands out—and it means the world to a nurse who rarely hears how their care impacted a patient long after discharge.

You don’t have to write a novel. Just a few sincere sentences are enough to brighten someone’s day. You might say:

“Dear Nurse Jessica, I will never forget your calm voice and warm smile during my recovery after surgery. You made those long nights in the hospital a little less scary. Thank you for taking care of me like family.”

Here’s how you can make it special:

• Use a blank card with a design or quote that fits the occasion.
• Include your name and date of care (if comfortable), so the nurse knows who the message is from.
• Drop it off at the hospital’s front desk or mail it to the nursing unit.

📧 Prefer digital? Many hospitals now accept e-cards on their websites that are delivered internally to staff. You can also email a message to the hospital’s public relations or patient care department to be forwarded to the nursing team.

💡 Tip: Encourage your child to draw a picture or write their own note if they were a patient—it’s extra touching when it comes from a young heart.

7. 📹 Create a Tribute Video: Say It with a Smile

If you or your family are comfortable on camera, creating a short tribute video can be an incredible gift. A video message adds a personal, emotional touch that written words sometimes can’t capture.

What to include:

• A few words of thanks: “Hi Nurse Lauren! Just wanted to say thank you again for your kindness during my mom’s chemo treatments. You were truly our angel in scrubs.”
• A memory or story: “I’ll never forget the way you sang to my son when he was scared. That meant so much.”
• Smiles, laughter, even happy tears—just be yourself.

You can film your message on a smartphone and email it to the hospital’s nursing department or post it to social media and tag the hospital (if you know the nurse’s name and unit). Many facilities love sharing these videos internally during National Nurses Week, either on screens in break rooms or through hospital newsletters.

🎬 Bonus idea: Coordinate a group video! Reach out to other patients or family members from your hospital unit (through social media or a group page) and compile messages into one beautiful thank-you reel.

8. 🎀 Drop Off Small Gifts: Thoughtful Gestures That Go a Long Way

While nurses never expect gifts, a small, thoughtful token of appreciation can go a long way in showing that you recognize their hard work and heart.

Here are some simple gift ideas that patients or families can drop off:

• Flowers or succulents – Brighten up the nurse’s station or break room.
• Coffee shop gift cards – A hot drink on a cold morning is pure comfort.
• Hand cream or wellness kits – Nurses wash their hands constantly, and a mini care kit is both useful and luxurious.
• Scented candles – Something calming they can enjoy at home.
• Healthy snacks or chocolates – Add a handwritten note: “Fuel for the heroes in scrubs.”

Keep it simple and professional—avoid large or overly expensive items, and always check with the hospital’s policies about food and gift delivery. You can bring items in for the whole team, too. A “thank-you basket” for the unit with mixed snacks, energy bars, gum, or teas is always a hit.

🎁 Pro tip: Add a note that reads “For the amazing nurses of [Unit Name] – With love and thanks from the [Your Last Name] family.”

👥 For Coworkers & Admin Staff: Celebrate Nurses Day as a Team

It’s not just patients who appreciate nurses—coworkers and hospital staff do too. Nurses are the heartbeat of every hospital and clinic. They’re not only caregivers to patients, but they’re also supporters, collaborators, and team players who help keep everything running smoothly.

National Nurses Day is the perfect opportunity for administrators and fellow healthcare professionals to go the extra mile to make nurses feel truly appreciated. If you work alongside these dedicated individuals, here are three meaningful ways to show them love and respect on their special day.

9. 🎈 Decorate the Nurses’ Station: Turn the Everyday into a Celebration

The nurses’ station is more than just a central hub—it’s their home base during long shifts. So why not transform it into a cheerful, celebratory space? A few well-placed decorations can make a huge impact and show that someone took the time to make them feel special.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Balloons and streamers in bright colors or hospital-themed patterns.
• A big “Happy National Nurses Day” banner across the front of the station.
• Fun signs with phrases like “Super Scrubbed Heroes Work Here” or “Nurses: Making Miracles Happen Daily!”
• Photo booth corner with props like stethoscopes, heart emojis, and nurse caps for fun team pictures.

This small gesture creates an instant mood lift. Nurses walk into their shift and see something bright, festive, and joyful—and it makes the day feel different in the best way. It also gives patients and other staff members a visual reminder to say “thank you” throughout the day.

📸 Bonus tip: Take group photos and display them on a bulletin board or in the break room for the rest of Nurses Week!

10. 🧘 Host a Relaxation Hour: Help Nurses Recharge and Refocus

Nursing is one of the most physically and emotionally demanding professions. Between long hours, emergency situations, and constant multitasking, it’s rare that nurses get time to truly unwind. That’s why hosting a relaxation hour is one of the most valuable gifts you can offer.

Here are a few low-cost, high-impact ideas:

• Invite a massage therapist to offer 10-minute chair massages.
• Bring in a yoga instructor for a gentle movement session focused on stress relief and stretching.
• Set up a “Zen corner” with calming music, essential oil diffusers, eye masks, and herbal teas.
• Offer guided meditation sessions either in person or via a calming app projected on a screen.

This is a fantastic initiative for administrators and wellness teams to coordinate. Not only does it show appreciation, but it also promotes nurse well-being—which benefits the whole workplace in the long run.

🧘‍♀️ Pro tip: Make sure night shift nurses get the same opportunity. Schedule two or three sessions throughout the day.

11. 📚 Build a Memory Book: Capture Moments That Matter

If there’s one thing that sticks with nurses—more than the daily tasks or procedures—it’s the memories. A Memory Book is a heartfelt, lasting tribute that celebrates those moments of care, connection, and camaraderie.

How to create it:

• Ask coworkers, administrators, and even doctors to write a short note or memory about a nurse who made an impact.
• Include patient thank-you notes, funny moments from the floor, or inspirational stories of teamwork.
• Add photos of the staff, celebrations, or day-to-day snapshots of nurses doing what they do best.
• Print the book or make it digital, then present it during a small gathering or with a group card.

You can even include quotes like:

“Nursing is not for the faint of heart. It’s for the strong, the compassionate, the brave.”

Or:

“To the nurse who stayed late just to check in one more time—you’ll never know how much that meant.”

📚 Pro tip: Make copies so each department can keep one, or gift individual printed versions to senior or retiring nurses.

🛍️ For Local Businesses & Communities: Show Nurses Some Local Love

National Nurses Day on May 6 isn’t just a celebration for hospitals and clinics—it’s a chance for entire communities to come together and honor the nurses who serve them every single day. Nurses don’t just work in our hospitals; they live in our neighborhoods, shop in our stores, and support our schools. They’re parents, volunteers, coaches, and caregivers—real heroes in our own backyards.

If you’re a local business owner, community leader, or even a proud neighbor, here are some heartfelt and creative ways to show your appreciation and make National Nurses Day 2025 one to remember.

12. 🏷️ Offer Nurse Discounts: A Simple “Thank You” with Big Impact

Running a local coffee shop, diner, bookstore, or salon? One of the easiest and most effective ways to honor nurses is by offering special discounts or freebies just for them on May 6.

Here are a few ideas:

• Free coffee or dessert with a badge.
• 20% off meals, services, or retail items.
• A “Nurses Happy Hour” special for after-shift relaxation.
• A free wellness product or gift with any purchase.

Even something as small as a “Thank You, Nurses!” sign in your window makes a statement. It tells nurses walking by that your business sees them, values them, and is proud to serve them.

💡 Pro tip: Promote your special via social media with hashtags like #ThankYouNurses or #NursesDay2025 to help spread the word and attract more foot traffic.

13. 📣 Give a Community Shout-Out: Make It Loud and Proud

Celebrating doesn’t always need a budget—sometimes, words are enough. Community shout-outs are a powerful way to publicly recognize local nurses and shine a spotlight on their dedication.

Here’s how to get involved:

• Ask your local radio station to do hourly shout-outs thanking nurses throughout the day.
• Publish a “Nurse Appreciation” message in the town newspaper, complete with photos and quotes.
• Use your Facebook page, Instagram, or community group to highlight real local nurses with short stories, interviews, or fun facts.
• If you’re a school or youth group, encourage students to write thank-you notes or create sidewalk chalk art outside hospitals or clinics.

📣 The key is visibility—let the whole town know it’s National Nurses Day, and encourage everyone to join in the gratitude.

14. 🎁 Sponsor a Giveaway or Raffle: Team Up and Give Back

Want to do something bigger? Partner with other local businesses to organize a Nurses Day Giveaway or Raffle. Create care packages, gift baskets, or relaxation kits, and randomly select local nurses to receive them. You can even host the drawing live on social media!

Great items to include:

• Gift cards to local restaurants or cafes
• Spa or massage vouchers
• Candles, skincare items, or cozy socks
• Handwritten thank-you notes from community members

🎁 Pro tip: Reach out to local hospitals and ask them to nominate staff anonymously for a chance to win. That way, you ensure the gifts go to those who could use a little extra love.

💻 Virtual & Digital Celebration Ideas: Showing Appreciation from Anywhere

Not every Nurses Day celebration needs to happen in person. In fact, with nurses working varying shifts, across different units—or even remotely in telehealth roles—virtual and digital celebrations are an excellent way to ensure everyone feels included and appreciated.

Whether you’re part of a hospital leadership team, an HR department, or simply want to uplift nurses from afar, here are three thoughtful and engaging digital ways to honor them this National Nurses Day, May 6.

15. 📱 Celebrate on Social Media: Go Public with Your Appreciation

Social media is a powerful tool for spreading love and gratitude, and National Nurses Day is the perfect time to make some noise. Take to your platforms to show the world how much your nursing staff means to you.

Ideas for what to post:

• Individual nurse spotlights: Share photos and short bios of nurses from different departments.
• Thank-you graphics: Create shareable images with messages like “We 💙 Our Nurses” or “Thank You for Being the Heart of Healthcare.”
• Behind-the-scenes moments: Post candid photos or videos of nurses doing what they do best (with permission).
• Video messages from leadership or patients expressing appreciation.

Use hashtags to reach a wider audience and connect your posts to a nationwide movement:

👉 #NationalNursesDay | #NurseStrong | #ThankYouNurses | #NursesWeek2025

💡 Bonus idea: Encourage others in your community—patients, coworkers, and families—to comment their own words of thanks on the posts.

16. 📧 Send a Group Thank-You Email: A Personal Note That Goes a Long Way

Sometimes, a well-crafted email can brighten someone’s entire shift. If you’re a department head, team lead, or manager, a group email with genuine appreciation can make nurses feel seen and valued—even if they can’t attend an in-person event.

What to include:

• A warm, personal message thanking the entire team for their dedication.
• Individual shout-outs for moments that stood out over the past year—big or small.
• A quick story or testimonial from a patient or family member.
• Information about any gifts, meals, or virtual events planned for the day.
• Inspirational quotes or links to uplifting videos.

📧 Pro tip: Keep it concise, heartfelt, and encouraging. Use a fun subject line like:

“💙 To the Nurses Who Make Healing Happen – Thank You!”

17. 💻 Host a Virtual Celebration: Bring the Party Online

If your nursing staff is spread across shifts or facilities—or working remotely in telehealth—consider hosting a virtual celebration via Zoom or Microsoft Teams. It’s a great way to come together without needing everyone in the same physical space.

Fun ideas for your virtual event:

• Trivia games or nursing-themed quizzes with small prizes.
• Raffles or giveaways for participation.
• Messages from leadership, department heads, or even surprise guest speakers.
• A digital slideshow with photos, quotes, and thank-you messages submitted in advance.

Don’t forget to record the session for nurses who can’t attend in real time. They’ll appreciate being able to watch it on their own schedule.

🎉 Final touch: Send digital gift cards to participants as a thank-you for all they do.

🎨 Fun & Creative Touches: Unique Ways to Celebrate National Nurses Day

While food, flowers, and formal thank-you messages are all appreciated, sometimes it’s the fun and creative gestures that leave the biggest mark. Nurses are often the first ones in and the last ones out. They juggle clinical skills, emotional care, and constant multitasking—all with compassion and grace.

So this National Nurses Day (May 6), why not add a little creativity to your appreciation efforts? Whether you’re a hospital administrator, coworker, or community supporter, these fun and heartfelt ideas will make nurses feel not just recognized—but truly celebrated.

18. 🧷 Create Custom Nurse Pins or Stickers: Wearable Appreciation

Nurses take great pride in their identity—and what better way to show it than with custom pins, buttons, or stickers designed just for them?

You can create wearable flair with:

• Fun phrases like “Scrub Life,” “Healing Happens Here,” “Nurse Mode: ON,” or “Fueled by Caffeine and Compassion.”
• Symbols like stethoscopes, heartbeats, syringes, or cartoon-style medical gear.
• Personalized messages such as “Pediatric Unit Rockstar” or “ER Nurse Extraordinaire.”

These pins can be attached to lanyards, scrubs, or badge reels. They’re small, affordable, and easy to hand out across departments. Even better—nurses will continue to wear them long after Nurses Day, sparking smiles from coworkers and patients alike.

🎨 Pro tip: Let your graphic design or marketing team create a few variations, and offer them as a fun “collect-them-all” set!

19. 🎧 Gift Books or Audiobooks: Wellness Beyond the Shift

Nursing is more than a job—it’s a calling. But after long and emotionally draining shifts, mental relaxation is essential. One thoughtful gift is a curated list—or bundle—of books and audiobooks designed to uplift, motivate, and recharge.

Here are a few themes to consider:

• Motivational nonfiction: Think “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle or “The Gifts of Imperfection” by Brené Brown.
• Inspirational nursing stories: Like “Chicken Soup for the Nurse’s Soul” or “The Shift” by Theresa Brown.
• Lighthearted fiction or humor: Because sometimes laughter really is the best medicine.
• Self-care and wellness guides focused on mindfulness, gratitude, or stress reduction.

📚 Bonus idea: Partner with a local bookstore or Audible to offer free download credits or gift cards.

These are the kinds of gifts that keep giving—and they show nurses you’re thinking of their whole person, not just their profession.

20. 🙏 Donate in Their Honor: A Gesture with Long-Term Impact

Another powerful way to honor nurses? Make a donation in their name to an organization that supports their profession or their values. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate not just who they are—but the future of nursing, too.

Consider:

• Donating to the American Nurses Foundation, which provides mental health support, scholarships, and emergency relief for nurses.
• Funding a nursing school scholarship for students in your area, with a note that it’s in honor of your current staff.
• Supporting a nurse-led community health initiative or charity of the team’s choosing.

You can present a certificate during Nurses Day that outlines the donation and shares how it will make a difference. It’s meaningful, personal, and forward-thinking.

🙏 Pro tip: Let the nurses vote on where the donation goes—it gives them ownership in the giving.

21. 📹 Compile a “Why We Love Our Nurses” Video: Make Their Hearts Smile

Nothing tugs at the heartstrings quite like a tribute video. Collect short clips from coworkers, administrators, doctors, and even patients or kids expressing what makes your nurses amazing. Put them together into a touching video montage that can be played during breakroom celebrations or shared on social media.

Ideas for video content:

• Doctors sharing how nurses save the day.
• Kids saying, “Thank you for taking care of my mommy!”
• Coworkers sharing inside jokes or sweet memories.
• Leadership offering heartfelt thanks with sincerity.

Edit the clips together with uplifting music and simple graphics. Add text overlays like “You are appreciated” and “Thank you for all you do.”

🎥 Bonus idea: Post the video on your hospital’s YouTube or Facebook page with a link nurses can send to friends and family. It becomes a keepsake they can treasure forever.

💙 Final Thoughts: It’s the Little Things That Count

Celebrating National Nurses Day doesn’t have to involve grand gestures. Often, it’s the personal touches, the sincere words, and the moments of recognition that matter most. Nurses give so much of themselves every single day—they deserve to feel seen, valued, and celebrated.

So whether it’s a cupcake, a thank-you post, or a surprise playlist of their favorite songs—find a way to let the nurses in your life know how incredible they are.