National Spouses Day is observed on January 26 in the United States. It began in the late 1980s or early 1990s as a quieter alternative to Valentine’s Day. The day is meant to encourage married couples to pause their routines and acknowledge each other’s role in their life, with an emphasis on appreciation, partnership, and ongoing commitment rather than gifts or formal celebrations.
❤️ See also our full list of national days focused on family and relationships. Explore it to learn more.
National Spouses Day emphasizes that appreciation does not need to wait for anniversaries or major milestones, but can be expressed by simply acknowledging the relationship and the work behind it.
When Is National Spouses Day Celebrated?
National Spouses Day falls on January 26 each year. It gives couples a designated moment to recognize their partnership and express appreciation for one another. Below are the dates for upcoming years.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | January 26, Monday |
| 2027 | January 26, Tuesday |
| 2028 | January 26, Wednesday |
| 2029 | January 26, Friday |
| 2030 | January 26, Saturday |
Ways to Celebrate National Spouses Day
This day offers plenty of opportunities to connect and strengthen your bond in meaningful ways, from spending quality time together to expressing gratitude for the little things that make your relationship special. Here are a few ideas to inspire your celebration:
- Share quality time: Take a break from your routine and do something special together. It could be as simple as cooking dinner together, watching a favorite movie, or going for a walk.
- Paint each other: This one might seem a bit daring, but it can turn into a lot of fun! You could end up with some messy masterpieces or just share a good laugh together, like this couple here:
- Express appreciation: Sometimes, a heartfelt “thank you” or sharing specific reasons why you value your spouse can have a meaningful impact.
- Revisit your favorite memories: Reflecting on shared moments can bring you closer. Look through old photos, recall your favorite trips, or reminisce about how you met.
- Plan a surprise: A small surprise, like breakfast in bed or planning an impromptu date night, can make the day feel special.
- Social Media Participation: The hashtag #NationalSpousesDay is widely used for appreciation posts. People share wedding photos, then-and-now comparisons, and short stories highlighting how their spouse supported them over the past year.
