National Boss's Day

The bond between an employee and the employer is one of the most important relationships in any workplace. A great boss not only guides and mentors but also inspires and motivates their team to achieve more than they ever imagined. They help build a positive and supportive work environment. To honor these remarkable leaders, employees across the country celebrate National Boss’s Day on October 16. With National Boss's Day 2026 approaching, now is the perfect time to start planning a thoughtful and memorable celebration.

Key Takeaways:

• National Boss’s Day is celebrated every year on October 16 in the United States.
• The day honors bosses for their leadership, guidance, and support throughout the year.
• The holiday was created in 1958 by Patricia Bays Haroski to honor her father, who was also her boss.
• Illinois Governor Otto Kerner made the day official in 1962, helping it spread nationwide.

What Is National Boss's Day?

National Boss's Day is a special day celebrated in the United States on October 16. It’s the perfect time for employees to show appreciation for their bosses, recognizing their guidance, fairness, and leadership over the past year.

While sometimes called a Hallmark holiday and occasionally seen as unnecessary, many people use it as a meaningful opportunity to say “thank you” and strengthen workplace connections.

Interesting Facts About National Boss's Day

The holiday has a delightful, tender origin story that is little-known. It was composed by an employee who felt a deep connection with her boss:

• National Boss's Day was established by a secretary at State Farm Insurance, Patricia Bays Haroski, who registered the holiday to celebrate her father, who also happened to be her boss.
• She officially registered National Boss's Day with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 1958, choosing October 16 because it was her father’s birthday.
• In 1962, four years later, the Governor of Illinois, Otto Kerner, declared the day an official one and thus helped to spread the celebration throughout America.
• Hallmark Cards began selling National Boss's Day cards in 1979, turning it into a well-recognized occasion for giving cards and gifts.

When Is National Boss's Day?

National Boss's Day is typically observed on the 16th of October annually. However, if the date happens to fall on a weekend, the celebration is typically moved to the closest weekday so employees can enjoy it together during regular work hours.

Future National Boss's Day Dates

Brief History

National Boss's Day is celebrated on October 16 each year as a time for employees to thank their bosses for their guidance and fairness. The idea began in 1958, when Patricia Bays Haroski, a secretary at State Farm Insurance, registered the day with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to honor her father, who was also her boss. She hoped it would help improve understanding and appreciation between managers and employees.

In 1962, Illinois Governor Otto Kerner officially recognized the day, helping it spread nationwide. Though sometimes called a “Hallmark Holiday,” many still see it as a heartfelt way to celebrate strong leadership, kindness, and the everyday effort it takes to guide a team.

How To Celebrate National Boss's Day?

National Boss's Day celebrations should be fun, authentic, and reflect your company culture.

Here are some cool National Boss's Day ideas for 2026:

1. Group Card or E-Card

Sometimes, the simplest gestures mean the most. A card signed by the whole team is a heartfelt and inexpensive way to show appreciation. For remote or hybrid offices, a digital option like Kudoboard works perfectly. Everyone can add personal notes, photos, or even GIFs to make it special.

2. Gifts for National Boss Day

When thinking about gifts for National Boss Day, consider something thoughtful and practical. Ideas include a subscription box that fits their hobbies, like coffee, books, or snacks, a stylish desk accessory, or even a donation made in their name to a cause they care about. Choose something that feels personal yet professional.

3. Office Decorations

Let the boss know you care right when they walk through the door. Subtle national boss day decorations, like a banner, a couple of balloons, or a personalized name sign, can brighten up their office without being too over the top.

How Do You Say Thank You Professionally To Your Boss?

The most important part of any National Boss's Day ideas is the message behind them. A sincere “thank you” goes a long way when it’s specific and genuine. Here is how you can professionally say thank you:

1. The Sincere Note

Send a handwritten note or an email that refers to something specific. Don’t say, “Thanks for being a great boss.” Write instead: "Thank you for your directions on the Q3 project. Trusting our team's proposal was a great learning experience, and I am grateful for your mentorship.

2. Focus on Outcomes

Acknowledge the positive impact they’ve had. For instance: "It's easy to get lost in the daily grind, but your communication is clear and your integrity has fostered a great work environment for me, one that makes all the difference to my overall productivity. 

3. Quotes for National Boss Day

You can also include quotes for National Boss Day that reflect your respect for their leadership. Quotes about vision, integrity, and mentorship are always a good fit. Example: “A leader is someone who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” - John C. Maxwell. Happy National Boss Day!

Conclusion

When it comes to National Boss's Day, the truth is that your recognition matters if it’s real and shown in a meaningful way. Whether it’s a note, a small gift, or just saying happy National Boss Day, what matters is the thought behind it. A great leader inspires a great team, and showing gratitude helps strengthen that bond.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is National Boss's Day always on October 16?

No, not always! National Boss’s Day is celebrated every year on October 16. But if it falls on a weekend, most workplaces observe it on the nearest weekday so everyone can celebrate together.

2. What to avoid when giving a boss's day gift?

When exploring national boss’s day ideas, keep gifts appropriate and professional. Avoid anything too personal, expensive, or suggestive. Stick to thoughtful, work-friendly items that show respect and appreciation.