Washingtonians Plan 'Super Sick Monday' After Super Bowl

Many workers in Washington state expected to call out sick the Monday after the big game.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 8:55pm

A significant number of workers in Washington state are planning to call out sick on the Monday following the Super Bowl, a phenomenon known as 'Super Sick Monday.' This includes both people who want to celebrate if their local team wins, as well as those who may need a day to recover from the festivities. Some employers are already bracing for high absenteeism on that day.

Why it matters

The 'Super Sick Monday' trend highlights the cultural significance of the Super Bowl in the United States, as well as the challenges employers face in managing employee attendance and productivity around major events. It also reflects the ongoing debate around work-life balance and the pressure many workers feel to be present at their jobs.

The details

According to reports, over 22 million people across the country are expected to skip work on the Monday after the Super Bowl. This includes both people who may be hungover or tired from Super Bowl celebrations, as well as those who want to take the day off to either celebrate or mourn the outcome if their local team is playing. Some employers are already preparing for high absenteeism, with one Washington resident saying his cousin has already requested the entire week off in anticipation.

  • The Super Bowl is scheduled for Sunday, February 9, 2026.
  • The following Monday, February 10, 2026, is when many workers in Washington state are expected to call out 'sick.'

The players

Seattle Seahawks

A professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington that competes in the National Football League (NFL).

New England Patriots

A professional American football team based in Foxborough, Massachusetts that competes in the National Football League (NFL).

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What’s next

Employers in Washington state are likely preparing for higher than normal absenteeism on the Monday following the Super Bowl, and may need to adjust staffing and productivity expectations accordingly.

The takeaway

The 'Super Sick Monday' phenomenon highlights the cultural significance of the Super Bowl in the United States, as well as the ongoing tension between work obligations and the desire for work-life balance, especially around major events.