National Nurses Week is observed annually from May 6 through May 12, concluding on the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. During this period, various businesses and organizations offer discounts, free products, and special recognition to nursing professionals. In addition to the general week-long observance, National Nurse Practitioner Week is a distinct event held to celebrate nurse practitioners (NPs) and advocate for the removal of barriers to their practice.
The following is a detailed overview of freebies, discounts, and deals available during National Nurses Week and Nurse Practitioner Week, based on information derived from the provided source materials.
Food and Beverage Offers
Several restaurant chains and food service providers offer complimentary items to nurses during National Nurses Week. These offers typically require proof of employment, such as a valid work badge.
Cinnabon Throughout the week, participating Cinnabon locations offer nurses one free Cinnabon Classic Roll, MiniBon roll, or a four-count of BonBites upon presentation of a badge. Cinnabon also partners with The DAISY Foundation, an organization dedicated to recognizing the exceptional work of nurses.
Applebee’s In previous years, Applebee’s has provided free appetizers to nurses who present a valid work badge during National Nurses Week.
McDonald’s McDonald’s has historically offered freebies for nurses during this week, including breakfast sandwiches, hash browns, soft drinks, and coffee. Availability may vary by location.
Insomnia Cookies Nurses can receive a free classic cookie from Insomnia Cookies by visiting a location and providing proof of healthcare employment.
Potbelly Sandwich Shop During Nurses Week 2024, Potbelly offered a free cookie or fountain drink with the purchase of an entrée.
Sonny’s BBQ Sonny’s has previously offered nurses free BBQ sandwiches during select days of National Nurses Week.
Dunkin’ Nurses may receive a free hot or iced coffee, customizable with blueberry or vanilla flavoring.
Moe’s Catering Moe’s has offered a discount code for nurses that provides a $50 gift card on catering orders over $300. This is typically intended for nurse managers or large orders.
Retail and Product Discounts
Beyond food, various brands offer discounts on products ranging from scrubs and skincare to fitness gear and outdoor equipment.
Scrubs and Medical Apparel While specific brands are not listed in the source data for 2025, the category is noted as a common recipient of Nurses Week discounts.
Skincare and Beauty * Jan Marini Skin Research: Offers an exclusive 40% discount on retail products for Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Registered Nurses (RNs), Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). * Ritual: Offers 20% off the first three months of service. Verification is required through ID.me.
Health and Wellness * GNC: Offers a 10% discount on purchases for nurses. Verification is required through ID.me. * Natural Cycles: Offers a 20% discount for healthcare workers and first responders. * Physicals Plus Health & Wellness: Specific details were not provided in the source data.
Lifestyle and Fitness * Stanley: Offers up to 20% off hydration products through ID.me. * Yeti: Offers 20% off coolers, tumblers, and drinkware through ID.me. * Spartan: Offers up to 25% off participant registration for nurses, including Spartan Trail and Tough Mudder events. * Competitive Cyclist: Offers a 20% discount on select purchases for nurses, first responders, and healthcare workers who verify with ID.me. * FlutterHabits: From May 5–12, nurses and teachers can take 30% off FlutterHabit products through ID.me. * HydroMassage: Nurses can receive a free week of unlimited HydroMassages, tanning, spray tanning, and red light therapy.
CBD Products * Pachamama CBD Oil: Offers 30% off for all frontline workers.
Online Services * Thrive Market: Nurses can receive a free annual membership to this online grocery store.
Professional Resources and Education
Amazon Amazon offers free nursing books for download on Kindle or the Kindle app. Titles include NCLEX guides, study books, ECG interpretation guides, and fiction related to the nursing profession.
Nurse.org Nurse.org provides free nurse week giveaways and has teamed up with MLB teams across the country to offer special discounts, recognition, and appreciation events for nurses during Nurse's Month in May. These events include discounted tickets and opportunities to vote for nurses to throw the first pitch.
Nurse Practitioner Week Recognition
National Nurse Practitioner Week is held annually to celebrate NPs and remind lawmakers of the importance of removing outdated barriers to practice, allowing NPs to practice to the full extent of their experience and education.
In 2025, the theme for NP Week was "NPs: Trusted Voices, Proven Care." The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) provided a resource guide that included: * A sample news release * Talking points * An NP fact sheet * Community activities * A media interview guide * Posters * Guidelines for writing a letter to the editor
Additionally, the AANP maintains an annual NP Week Proclamation Map. States that secure a proclamation signed by an elected official are highlighted on the map. In 2025, Delaware was the first state to submit a proclamation, signed by Governor Matt Meyer.
Important Considerations for Nurses
When seeking these freebies and discounts, nurses should keep the following in mind:
- Verification: Many discounts require verification through third-party services like ID.me. Nurses should ensure they have an active account and the necessary credentials to verify their status.
- Participation: Offers and participation can vary by location. It is recommended to check with the closest location before heading out to confirm they are participating in the promotion.
- Proof of Employment: Most food offers require the presentation of a valid work badge.
- Timing: National Nurses Week runs from May 6 to May 12. Some offers may only be valid on specific days within this window.
- Updates: The source materials indicate that additional discounts and freebies may be announced as the week approaches. Nurses are encouraged to check back for updates.
Conclusion
National Nurses Week and Nurse Practitioner Week provide valuable opportunities for businesses to show appreciation through freebies, discounts, and special events. From complimentary food and beverages to significant savings on retail products and professional resources, there are numerous ways for nurses to celebrate their profession. By staying informed about available offers and verifying participation with local establishments, nurses can fully take advantage of the recognition and rewards offered during these observances.