National Nurses Week 2025: Where to get deals, free food and discounts in Michigan

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National Nurses Week began Tuesday, May 6, and restaurant chains across the country are offering freebies and discounts to show their appreciation.

“This year, the American Nurses Enterprise is shining a light on The Power of Nurses,” American Nurses Enterprise said on its website. “We recognize the invaluable contributions of nurses worldwide and the real-life challenges they face every day. Whether you’re a nurse, a health care professional, a patient, or simply someone who appreciates the critical role nurses play in our lives and society, National Nurses Week is the perfect time to share your gratitude and celebrate nurses.”

Companies are handing out a variety of promotions for National Nurses Week 2025, celebrated May 6-12, according to the American Nurses Enterprise.

The American Nurses Enterprise, which encompasses the American Nurses Association, the American Nurses Credentialing Center, and the American Nurses Foundation aims to “champion nurses, advance standards of excellence and inspire transformative change,” the group said on its website.

Here’s what to know about National Nurses Week.

How many health care workers are there in Michigan?

More than 1 million Michiganders work in the health care industry, according to the Michigan Health and Hospital Association.

Nearly 572,000 Michigan residents hold direct patient care jobs and provide medical or supportive care to patients.

An additional 502,000 Michiganders work in indirect health care jobs, making sure doctors, nurses and medical professionals have the supplies and systems necessary to provide care.

What is Nurses Light Up the Sky 2025?

Nurses Light Up the Sky is a way to honor nurses, drive awareness among the wider community, create press opportunities, encourage social sharing, and the lit landmarks serve as perfect destinations for local meet ups and activation during National Nurses Week.

Last year there were 85 illuminated buildings in honor of nurses during National Nurses Week. This year, over 150 buildings will be lit. The full list is available online.

Why does National Nurses Week begin on a Tuesday this year?

According to the American Nurses Enterprise website, National Nurses Week begins each year on May 6 and ends on May 12, Florence Nightingale’s birthday.

“These permanent dates enhance planning and position National Nurses Week as an established recognition event,” the enterprise says on its website.

In 1982, President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation designating May 6 as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”

Chipotle giving away free burritos for educators, health professionals

Chipotle announced on April 30 that it is awarding 200,000 teachers and health care professionals with free burrito e-cards, worth more than $2 million.

Teachers and health professionals can enter for a chance to win a free entrée e-card through May 12 on their respective microsites:

At the end of Teacher Appreciation Week and National Nurse Appreciation Week, 100,000 teachers and 100,000 health workers will be randomly selected to receive an email to verify their employment status via ID.Me.

Teachers and health care professionals who verify their employment status within 48 hours will receive a free entrée e-card. Winners will be notified starting the week of May 13.

“Teachers and health care professionals are such important members of the communities we serve,” said Chris Brandt, Chief Brand Officer of Chipotle, in a news release. “To express our gratitude, we’re scaling up our recognition efforts and launching our largest free burrito giveback program in history.”

MOD Pizza offers BOGO for teachers and nurses

In honor of National Teacher and Nurse Appreciation Week, MOD Pizza is inviting teachers and nurses to visit any participating location and enjoy a Buy One, Get One Free pizza offer from May 5-8.

To redeem the offer, participants must present a valid teacher or nurse ID at checkout, with a limit of one free pizza per ID. With the purchase of any pizza, they’ll receive a second pizza free. The offer is only valid in-stores, the company told USA TODAY.

Tim Horton’s offers doughnut deals for teachers and nurses

Tim Horton’s is offering nurses a buy one doughnut, get one free deal from May 6-12, the company said. Additionally, nurses can also buy a dozen donuts and get six donuts free in that stretch.

The same offer is also available for teachers, the company told USA TODAY.

Scooter’s Coffee offers health care workers free medium drink on May 6

Scooter’s Coffee is offering nurses and health care workers a free medium drink on Tuesday, May 6, the first day of National Nurses Week. The offer is valid at participating locations with valid health care ID and is not eligible for mobile ordering.

Additionally, a limited number of Healthcare Heroes stickers will be available at each location while supplies last.

Logan’s Roadhouse offering discounted entrées for nurses May 5-12

From May 5-12, nurses can get 20% off an entrée with a valid ID at Logan’s Roadhouse restaurants.