January 20 is National Coffee Break Day, celebrating the cherished tradition of taking a short break to enjoy a cup of coffee.
National Coffee Break Day is one of many coffee-themed national days. Check out our special list where we’ve gathered all 25 coffee holidays, including coffee weeks and months.
The Origins of the “Coffee Break” Concept
The concept of a “coffee break” began to take shape in the early 20th century, with workers pausing to rest and rejuvenate with a coffee. The term was popularized in the early 1950s by the Pan-American Coffee Bureau through a successful advertising campaign encouraging people to “give yourself a coffee break — and get what coffee gives to you.” By the mid-20th century, coffee breaks had become a standard practice in workplaces across the United States, seen as a way to boost productivity.
As coffee breaks became more common, coffee carts and stands began to appear on city streets, providing easy access to a quick cup of coffee. The 1970s and beyond saw companies like Peet’s Coffee & Tea and Starbucks (Starbucks has own national day) revolutionize coffee culture, offering a wide range of coffee beverages and creating inviting spaces for people to enjoy their coffee breaks.
National Coffee Break Day celebrates this rich history and the simple pleasure of pausing to enjoy a cup of coffee. It’s a day to appreciate the social and cultural significance of the coffee break and to take a moment out of your busy day to relax and savor your favorite brew.
When Is National Coffee Break Day?
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2026 | January 20 |
| 2027 | January 20 |
| 2028 | January 20 |
| 2029 | January 20 |
| 2030 | January 20 |
