National Boss Day 2025: Why the Date Can Vary and When It’s Celebrated

Did you miss National Boss Day 2025? Don’t worry – you still have time to plan something special.

Despite what you might have seen online, National Boss Day 2025 isn’t today, Oct. 15. The official date is Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025. That means there’s still a day left to grab a card, plan a surprise, or even decorate your boss’s office in appreciation.

Every year, employees across the U.S. take this opportunity to thank their supervisors for their guidance, leadership, and fairness. The day goes by many names – National Boss’s Day, Boss Day, Bosses Day, and even Boss Appreciation Day on social media.

The origins of National Boss Day

The holiday dates back to 1958, when Patricia Bays Haroski, a secretary at State Farm Insurance Company in Illinois, registered “National Boss’s Day” with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Haroski chose Oct. 16 – her father’s birthday – to honor him and recognize the positive impact of good bosses everywhere.

Four years later, in 1962, the governor of Illinois officially recognized the holiday. However, it wasn’t until 1979 that Hallmark began printing National Boss Day cards, helping the observance spread nationwide.

Why the date changes some years

While National Boss Day is always officially Oct. 16, the day is observed on the closest weekday when it falls on a weekend.

For example, in 2022, Oct. 16 was a Sunday, so the celebration was moved to Monday, Oct. 17. The same will happen again in other years when Oct. 16 lands on a weekend – ensuring everyone can celebrate in the workplace.

Looking ahead, in 2027, National Boss Day will be observed on Friday, Oct. 15, since the 16th falls on a Saturday.

How to celebrate National Boss Day 2025

If you want to join the celebration, there are countless ways to show your appreciation – whether you have a great boss or just want to share some laughs.

• Send a card: A thoughtful National Boss Day card signed by your whole team can go a long way. Hallmark and online retailers have dozens of designs ready to go.
• Organize a potluck or team lunch: Bring in your boss’s favorite dishes or take them out for breakfast or lunch as a gesture of gratitude.
• Create a custom gift basket: Fill it with gourmet snacks, coffee, office essentials, or even a framed team photo.
• Decorate the office: Balloons, banners, and even a “Best Boss Ever” trophy can add a fun touch.
• Sweet treats: A custom cake or dessert with “Best Boss Ever” written on top never goes unnoticed.
• Give the gift of time: If HR approves, an early dismissal or half-day for the team could make everyone’s day – including your boss’s.

Celebrate online, too

In true 2025 fashion, you can join in virtually. Use the hashtag #BossDay on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or X (formerly Twitter) to share photos, appreciation posts, and even The Office-inspired memes. After all, no Boss Day celebration is complete without a nod to Michael Scott, Steve Carell’s unforgettable character from the hit show.

So don’t panic if you forgot to celebrate today – National Boss Day 2025 officially arrives on Thursday, Oct. 16. You still have time to plan the perfect thank-you for the person leading your team.