- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- FunLifestyle
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every September 5
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- ⏰
National Be Late for Something Day arrives every September 5, offering a playful invitation to deliberately slow down and savor life’s unhurried moments. This unique holiday encourages us to set aside the relentless pace of modern life and embrace the positive aspects of procrastination. Take a deep breath, enjoy an extra cup of coffee, or spend a few more minutes on a passion project. Reclaim personal time!
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Expected National Be Late for Something Day Deals
While we wait for official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that brands often lean into the theme of relaxation and self-care for National Be Late for Something Day. Expect companies like Starbucks and Dunkin’ to offer deals on coffee and breakfast items, encouraging a slower start to the day. Wellness apps such as Calm and Headspace might feature discounts on subscriptions or guided meditations. Retailers like Target or Amazon could promote sales on cozy home goods, books, or leisure items, inviting consumers to linger longer. Even travel sites like Expedia might highlight last-minute getaways or flexible booking options. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as September 5 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Be Late for Something Day
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #BeLateForSomethingDay. Create a humorous skit about the joys of being fashionably late or share tips for mindful procrastination.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #BeLateForSomethingDay. Post a photo of your favorite unhurried activity, like reading a book or enjoying a slow morning coffee.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #BeLateForSomethingDay. Share a story about a time being late unexpectedly led to a positive outcome.
National Be Late for Something Day Hero
Carl Honoré
History of National Be Late for Something Day
The exact year of creation is up for debate, but there is no denying the importance of the holiday. There are people who excel at procrastinating and never seem capable of being punctual. This behavior, while normally considered unacceptable, has been given a new twist with this holiday.
The Procrastinators Club of America created National Be Late for Something Day to showcase the upsides of tardiness. Founded by Les Waas in 1956, the club’s committee soon assigned September 5 as the official Be Late for Something Day. The group has been active in the United States since then, going on to protest the War of 1812 — in 1966. Philadelphia’s Betsy Ross bridge was the recipient of the “Award to Come Later” title because of its delayed opening.
The creation of Be Late for Something Day was another valiant effort on their part to pass an important message. With the incredible amount of pressure placed on our shoulders in an ever-evolving world, we all deserve a break now and again. Be Late for Something Day has encouraged many to look at their schedules a little differently. Take a step back and you might realize it’s all not as serious as you thought it to be.
The pressure that comes with sticking to tight schedules can be detrimental to mental and physical health. Taking time to do little things you never have time for like a walk, bird-watching, or maybe just a long nap, can work wonders. Squeeze a couple of minutes out of your schedule and see what you can, or can’t, get up to!
National Be Late for Something Day timeline
Les Waas creates the Procrastinators Club and stands as its acting president.
The Procrastinators club holds a demonstration to boycott the War of 1812.
Due to the much-delayed opening of Philadelphia’s Betsy Ross Bridge, the Procrastinator’s Club bestows it with the "Award to Come Later" title.
The founder of the Procrastinator's Club dies at the age of 94.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Be Late for Something Day
Local businesses can embrace National Be Late for Something Day by encouraging a relaxed atmosphere and offering incentives for a slower pace. Coffee shops might offer a ‘late riser’ special for customers who arrive after the usual morning rush, or a ‘linger longer’ discount for those who stay past a certain time. Retailers could host a ‘slow shopping’ event with no-rush browsing and personalized service, perhaps with a small gift for customers who spend extra time exploring. Service-based businesses could promote flexible scheduling or offer a ‘grace period’ for appointments, reminding clients that it’s okay to take a moment for themselves.
National Be Late for Something Day FAQs
When is National Be Late for Something Day?
National Be Late for Something Day 2026 falls on a Saturday, September 5. It’s the perfect weekend opportunity to deliberately take your time and enjoy a leisurely pace.
What are the benefits of being intentionally late?
Being intentionally late can reduce stress by challenging the constant pressure of punctuality, allowing for more mindful moments. It encourages prioritizing personal well-being over rigid schedules.
How common is chronic lateness?
Studies suggest that chronic lateness affects a significant portion of the population, with estimates ranging from 15-20% of adults frequently arriving late. This day offers a lighthearted take on the habit.
Who created National Be Late for Something Day?
National Be Late for Something Day was reportedly created by the Procrastinators’ Club of America in 1956. This unique observance encourages a healthier relationship with time and deadlines.
How to Celebrate National Be Late for Something Day
See the forest for the trees
When’s the last time you did something for the first time? Sit in the park and people-watch, feed the pigeons, watch the sunrise — the world can wait.
Reconnect with loved ones
Go visit an old friend or spend time bonding with your kids while you’re running late. Remember, life is a marathon, not a sprint; you should spend it with people you love.
Give yourself a break
Take drastic measures to cut down your schedule. You can assign more time to tasks or remove some unnecessary ones. It’s up to you.
5 Facts About Procrastination That Will Blow Your Mind
Men are the main procrastinators
Gender plays a huge role in procrastination; the majority of procrastinators are men.
Knowledge isn’t always power
There is no established connection between intelligence and the tendency to procrastinate.
Procrastinators like the dark
Nightlife types are more susceptible to procrastination than early birds.
Procrastination is painful
Yes! Procrastinators can feel real physical pain when faced with a daunting task.
Procrastinators love too much
Worry is a staple of a procrastinator’s behavior; the average procrastinator dreads the judgment, disapproval, or ridicule of others.
Why We Love National Be Late for Something Day
We get to take a load off
Few things are better than being completely unencumbered. Be Late for Something Day is as close to a getaway as some people get.
We learn to appreciate the world around us
It’s not often we get to appreciate the little things around us. This holiday is the perfect time to ponder on the inner workings of nature.
We get to dedicate time to things we love
Whether it’s the people you hold dear or that hobby you never had time for, this is the best time to reconnect. This observance gives us that precious time with family and friends we always thought was lost.
National Be Late for Something Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | September 5 | Saturday |
| 2027 | September 5 | Sunday |
| 2028 | September 5 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | September 5 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | September 5 | Thursday |
Social Media Tips for National Be Late for Something Day
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