Certified Nurses Day 2026

Certified Nurses Day is an annual celebration of the dedicated nurses who have achieved certification, which shows patients, families, employers and the public that their knowledge reflects national standards and a deep commitment to patient safety. These professionals have passed a rigorous exam as they continue their learning journey throughout their careers. Certified nurses are champions of excellence, and it’s time to cheer them on!

Together, we recognize the unwavering commitment and expertise that certified nurses bring to patients, families and healthcare.

Make the most of Certified Nurses Day with meaningful ways to express your gratitude, from printable downloads to recognition products available in the AACN store. Create an email or intranet post, and take inspiration from our sample social media messages. Show your appreciation for your certified nursing colleagues by organizing a team event. However you mark the occasion, strengthen a sense of camaraderie among your peers and emphasize the value of certification.

Display Commemorative Posters

Show appreciation for certified nurses in your unit or facility by posting this printable flyer.

Print Celebratory Stickers

Use our template to print stickers that showcase your pride in certified nurses.

Give a Heartfelt Thank You Card

Express your gratitude to a certified team member with this print-and-fold greeting card.

Post a Social Media Message

Join the online celebration with our suggested #CND2026 social media messages.

Send a Media Release

Show that your facility celebrates Certified Nurses Day 2026 by customizing and distributing a media release using this template.

Browse Gifts in the AACN Store

Choose from a selection of thoughtful certification-themed items Orders placed before 9 a.m. PT on Tuesday, March 10, will be received by Thursday, March 19.

Purchase an AACN Gift Certificate

Give the ideal year-round gift, an AACN Gift Certificate that’s redeemable for certification exams and renewals, annual memberships, NTI registration and items in the online AACN store.

Offer Certification to Your Whole Team

Encourage professional growth by helping more nurses become certified. Hospitals, health systems and AACN chapters enjoy substantial savings with the AACN Value Program.

See how teams across the country salute certified nurses, and share your own celebration online using the hashtag #CND2026.