A cozy coffee break scene with a steaming cup of coffee on a rustic wooden table, surrounded by soft pastries and a vibrant green plant, captured in natural lighting

National Coffee Break Day, celebrated annually on January 20, is dedicated to honoring the tradition of taking a pause from work to recharge with a cup of coffee. This day emphasizes the importance of relaxation, productivity, and social connections during work hours.

Quick Facts

  • When is it? January 20
  • Tagged as: Workplace culture, relaxation, coffee
  • What’s the hashtag? #NationalCoffeeBreakDay
  • When was it founded? Early 2000s
  • Who founded it? National Coffee Association (NCA)

History of National Coffee Break Day

The concept of a coffee break dates back to the late 19th century in Stoughton, Wisconsin, where women working in tobacco factories took short breaks for coffee. By the early 20th century, companies like Barcolo Manufacturing in Buffalo, NY, institutionalized coffee breaks to boost worker productivity. The term “coffee break” became mainstream in 1952 through an advertising campaign by the Pan-American Coffee Bureau. Over time, this practice became a cornerstone of workplace culture across the U.S.

Timeline

  • Late 1800s: Coffee breaks originate in Stoughton, Wisconsin.
  • 1902: Barcolo Manufacturing introduces two daily coffee breaks for employees.
  • 1952: The term “coffee break” gains popularity through advertising.
  • 1970s: Companies like Starbucks revolutionize coffee culture.

Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)

YearMonth and DateDay
2025January 20Monday
2026January 20Tuesday
2027January 20Wednesday
2028January 20Thursday
2029January 20Saturday
2030January 20Sunday

Observed

National Coffee Break Day is observed by taking intentional breaks during work hours to enjoy coffee. Many workplaces organize group coffee sessions to foster camaraderie among employees.

Fun Facts About Coffee Breaks

  • The term “coffee break” was popularized in a marketing campaign in the 1950s.
  • Coffee breaks were initially introduced as a productivity tool in factories.
  • The practice has inspired modern coffee culture and workplace trends worldwide.

Quiz

  1. What year did the term “coffee break” become mainstream?
  2. Which company introduced daily coffee breaks in Buffalo, NY?
  3. What is the official hashtag for National Coffee Break Day?

(Answers: 1. 1952; 2. Barcolo Manufacturing; 3. #NationalCoffeeBreakDay)

FAQs

Q: Why is National Coffee Break Day celebrated?
A: It celebrates the tradition of taking short breaks during work hours to relax and recharge with coffee.

Q: Is it a public holiday?
A: No, it’s an observance day celebrated primarily in workplaces.

Q: Can tea drinkers participate?
A: Absolutely! The essence of the day is about taking a break, regardless of your beverage choice.

Importance of National Coffee Break Day

This day highlights the benefits of taking breaks at work, such as reducing stress, boosting productivity, and fostering workplace relationships. It also celebrates coffee’s role in energizing and connecting people.

Related

  • National Coffee Day (September 29)
  • International Coffee Day (October 1)
  • Irish Coffee Day (January 25)