Waiters Day for the year 2024 is celebrated/observed on Tuesday, May 16th. There are until the next observance.

On May 16, National Waiters’ Day is observed to recognize and encourage the hospitality sector employees in the United Kingdom. The occupation is all about waiting for people and meeting all of their requirements, much as the name “waiter” comes from the noun “wait.” The holiday’s founder, Fred Siriex, considers it a fantastic opportunity to promote the myriad job prospects available in the hotel business. On National Waiters’ Day, we should open our hearts and wallets to show how much we appreciate this hard but rewarding job.

📆 When is Waiters Day?

This year, Waiters Day is on May 16th. It is the 3rd Tuesday in May; in 2024, it is on Thursday.

Countdown to Waiters Day

Did you know: Arrive early and allow your waiter to guide you to your table before the restaurant fills up for supper.

You can also see all fascinating things you didn’t know about and facts about May 16, 2023.

📜 History of Waiters Day

Fred Sirieix, a French restaurateur, created National Waiters’ Day as a way to recognize the exciting and rewarding nature of the hospitality industry. The cause of Sirieix’s enthusiasm is his extensive involvement in the hotel sector. After starting his first job as a server at the age of 16, Siriex had a special outlook on living a life of service, which spurred him toward a career in catering. He believes that rather than any fancy degree, his brief time working as a service worker taught him more about life.

In the UK, National Waiters’ Day has been celebrated annually since 2013. The event is recognized by Springboard Charity, and it has previously collaborated with the London Hospitality Festival. A unique Servers’ Day competition involves a race amongst waiters to transport a water tray from one spot to the next without spilling anything. In 2018, Springboard’s race raised more than £30,000 to support those pursuing career advancement in the hospitality sector.

☑️ Waiters Day facts

Pay attention to the specials
Even if you already have a meal in mind, pay attention to the specials and nod along.

Give instant feedback
Point out any complaints you have and provide the waiter with a window of opportunity for reconciliation.

Learn their names
Learn the waiter’s name and use it in conversation to become acquainted with him or her.

Things to do on Waiters Day

Plan a night out
There is no better way to respect professionals than to take advantage of their services. Celebrate with a lunch at your favorite restaurant, or better yet, visit a brand-new establishment you’ve been eyeing for a while.

Wear the apron
Sign up for volunteer hours in the service industry if you have the opportunity. Working as a server teaches you soft skills like punctuality, discipline, humility, and observation, as well as preparing you for the real world. You’ll learn more in the pubs and dining rooms than at any college.

Tip generously
Mark the national waiter’s day by opening your wallets and leaving a hefty tip, ideally at least 10%. Tips are given straight to the servers to help them cover their costs.

📅 Waiters Day Observances

YEAR DATE DAY
2023 May 16 Tuesday
2024 May 16 Thursday
2025 May 16 Friday
2026 May 16 Saturday
2027 May 16 Sunday

Learn all May holidays, including Special Interest and other Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about Waiters Day. So be sure to check back soon.