A happy couple holding hands and smiling at each other, celebrating National Spouses Day with a warm embrace

National Spouses Day is a special occasion dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the bond between married couples. Celebrated annually, this day encourages partners to take a moment to reflect on their relationship, express gratitude, and spend quality time together.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: January 26
  • Tagged as: National Spouses Day
  • What’s the hashtag?: #NationalSpousesDay
  • When was it founded?: October 10, 1996
  • Who founded it?: The exact founder is unknown, but it is believed to have emerged from the concept of Military Spouses Day established in 1984.

History of National Spouses Day

The origins of National Spouses Day are somewhat unclear, but it is thought to have gained popularity in the early 2000s, primarily in the United States and the United Kingdom. The day serves as a reminder for couples to appreciate each other amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life. Unlike Valentine’s Day, which often emphasizes romantic gestures and gifts, National Spouses Day focuses on spending quality time together and acknowledging the everyday support spouses provide.

Timeline

  • 1984: Military Spouse Appreciation Day established by President Ronald Reagan.
  • 1996: National Spouse Day founded by Thomas and Ruth Roy.
  • 2000s: The day gains popularity among couples as a time to reflect on their relationships.
  • Present: Celebrated annually on January 26, with various activities planned by couples to honor their partnerships.

Dates by Next Year

YearMonth and DateDay
2025January 26Sunday
2026January 26Monday
2027January 26Tuesday
2028January 26Wednesday
2029January 26Friday
2030January 26Saturday

Observed

National Spouses Day is observed not only in the U.S. but also in various countries worldwide. It encourages couples to engage in activities that strengthen their relationship, such as sharing meals, revisiting significant locations, or simply enjoying each other’s company without distractions.

Fun Facts About National Spouses Day

  • The longest recorded marriage lasted over 90 years.
  • Studies show that happily married individuals tend to be more productive in their personal and professional lives.
  • Couples who regularly spend quality time together report higher satisfaction levels in their relationships.

Quiz

  1. What date is National Spouses Day celebrated?
  • Answer: January 26
  1. Is National Spouses Day more focused on gifts or quality time?
  • Answer: Quality time
  1. What year did Military Spouses Day originate?
  • Answer: 1984

FAQs

What activities can couples do on National Spouses Day?

Couples can celebrate by cooking a special meal together, writing heartfelt notes to each other, or planning a fun outing that reflects their shared interests.

How does this day differ from Valentine’s Day?

While Valentine’s Day often focuses on romantic gifts and gestures, National Spouses Day emphasizes appreciation for everyday companionship and support.

Related

  • Valentine’s Day
  • Military Spouse Appreciation Day
  • Couple’s Retreat Days