NATIONAL DAYBUSINESS

National Take Back the Lunch Break Day

Taking a lunch break is essential for productivity, don't overlook its importance.

JUN24
Thursday, June 24Every year on June 24
 days to go
Roots
Created by Tork in 2018; National Day Calendar moved it to June 24 in 2022
Vibe
A day to rejuvenate and refocus
Hashtag
#NationalTakeBackTheLunchBreakDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Step away today

Actually leave the desk for a full lunch: eat outside, read, or just breathe.

WITH FRIENDS

Meet for lunch

Invite a coworker friend to a real sit-down meal with phones tucked away.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Host a lunch out

Organize a team lunch somewhere nice and keep shop talk off the menu.

Plan ahead

National Take Back the Lunch Break Day is observed on June 24 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Wed, Jun 24this year
2027Thu, Jun 24
2028Sat, Jun 24
2029Sun, Jun 24
2030Mon, Jun 24
2031Tue, Jun 24
2032Thu, Jun 24
2033Fri, Jun 24
2034Sat, Jun 24
2035Sun, Jun 24
2036Tue, Jun 24

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Many workers regularly skip or shorten their lunch breaks.
Taking breaks can reduce stress and improve focus.

The story

National Take Back the Lunch Break Day was established to address the growing trend of employees skipping their lunch breaks. In a fast-paced work culture, many feel pressured to stay glued to their desks. This day serves as a reminder that taking time to recharge is crucial for mental and physical health.

Read the full story

Tork created Take Back the Lunch Break Day in 2018 to promote the importance of taking breaks throughout the workday. By encouraging individuals to reclaim their lunch breaks, the initiative highlights the benefits of stepping away from work, such as increased creativity, productivity, and overall well-being.

Many American workers regularly forgo their lunch breaks, which can lead to burnout and decreased job satisfaction. By taking a moment to enjoy a meal away from the office, individuals can return to their tasks with renewed energy and focus.

As we celebrate National Take Back the Lunch Break Day, let us remind ourselves and our coworkers of the importance of self-care. Whether it’s enjoying a meal outdoors, socializing with colleagues, or simply taking a moment to breathe, reclaiming our lunch breaks is a step toward a healthier workplace.

Did you know?

01

The Average Worker

Many workers take short lunch breaks, often less than an hour.

02

Health Benefits

Taking breaks can reduce stress and improve mental health.

03

European Norms

In some European countries, long lunch breaks are standard.

04

Company Culture

Companies that advocate for breaks often see lower turnover.

05

Cultural Shifts

The rise of remote work has changed lunch break dynamics.

06

Lunch Break Length

In the U.S., lunch breaks are often much shorter than an hour.

07

Historical Context

The concept of lunch breaks became popular in the late 19th century.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesCelebrated nationwide, with various events.
  • CACanadaEncourages Canadian workplaces to promote breaks.
  • GBUnited KingdomSimilar initiatives are seen in British offices.
  • AUAustraliaAustralian companies also focus on lunch breaks.
  • NZNew ZealandEmphasizes the importance of breaks in workplaces.
  • ·GlobalMany countries recognize the need for work-life balance.

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