Be Kind To Food Servers Month

Be Kind To Food Servers Month is observed every January to honor and appreciate the hardworking individuals in the food service industry. This month-long event encourages kindness, generosity, and respect for food servers, who often rely on tips and face demanding work environments.

Quick Facts

When is it? January (entire month)
Tagged as: Food & Drink, Thanks & Appreciation, Work & Career
What’s the hashtag? #BeKindToFoodServersMonth
When was it founded? 2009
Who founded it? Sybil Presley, a lifelong waitress and advocate for food servers.

History of Be Kind To Food Servers Month

The tradition of tipping food servers began in Europe during the late Middle Ages and was later adopted in the United States by wealthy Americans. Initially controversial, tipping became an ingrained practice after the Civil War. However, it also highlighted wage disparities, as many servers were paid below minimum wage and relied solely on tips.

In 2009, Sybil Presley established Be Kind To Food Servers Month to raise awareness about these challenges and promote appreciation for food servers. Her efforts included encouraging higher tips, gifts for servers, and fostering mutual respect between servers and diners.

Timeline

Late 1800s: Tipping introduced in the U.S. by wealthy Americans.
1910–1920: Some Southern states temporarily banned tipping.
1938: Tipped wages included in the New Deal.
2009: Sybil Presley officially founded Be Kind To Food Servers Month.

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	January 1–31	Wednesday
2026	January 1–31	Thursday
2027	January 1–31	Friday
2028	January 1–31	Saturday
2029	January 1–31	Monday
2030	January 1–31	Tuesday

Observed

This special month is observed throughout January in restaurants, cafes, and other dining establishments across the U.S., encouraging acts of kindness toward food servers.

Fun Facts About Be Kind To Food Servers Month

Tipping began as a way for wealthy individuals to flaunt their status.
The federal minimum wage for tipped workers remains $2.13 in some states.
Sybil Presley also performs stand-up comedy as a waitress!

Quiz

Who founded Be Kind To Food Servers Month?
What percentage tip is considered standard in the U.S.?
When was tipping first introduced in America?

(Answers: 1. Sybil Presley; 2. 15–20%; 3. Late 1800s)

FAQs

Q: How can I participate in Be Kind To Food Servers Month?
A: Tip generously, give small gifts to your favorite servers, or simply show kindness during your dining experience.

Q: Why do food servers rely on tips?
A: Many servers earn below minimum wage and depend on tips to make a living.

Q: Is tipping mandatory in the U.S.?
A: No, but it’s considered customary and polite.

Importance of Be Kind To Food Servers Month

This month emphasizes gratitude for food servers’ contributions to our dining experiences while addressing wage disparities and promoting fair treatment within the industry.