9 Ways to Celebrate Husband Appreciation Day

Give Your Husband a Day Off

We know you can’t control your work schedules, but why not let your husband off the hook for the things he does around the house? Maybe give him a few days (or a full week) of not having to worry about his usual chores or house duties—it may cost you time, but it's a good option that doesn't involve money, and giving him some time to just exist, schedule-free, will mean a lot to him.

Do an Activity With Him That He Loves

Is there some activity your husband is always trying to get you to do that does not interest you at all? Whatever it is that you’re usually saying "no" to, how about saying "yes" on Husband Appreciation Day? Not only will he love that you’re doing the activity with him, but the fact that you initiated it will put him over the moon.

Write a Letter

It's a simple act, but words of appreciation go a long way. "Express your love and appreciation through heartfelt words," says Bronstein. "Either in person, in a handwritten letter, or through a thoughtful message. Compliment him on his strengths and let him know how much he means to you."

Cook a Favorite Meal

While it may seem like a simple idea, it’s guaranteed to put a smile on your husband's face. Whatever his absolute favorite food or meal is, assemble all the ingredients and maybe have him sit at the kitchen counter while you cook, share a glass of wine, and have a little chef's table experience.

Surprise Him With a Weekend With Friends

Show your hubby how much you appreciate him by organizing a weekend getaway for him and his friends. Round everyone up and send them on a trip to a nearby spot that your husband absolutely loves. (If you’re friendly with your husband’s friends’ partners, you could work with them to organize the special weekend.) Whatever it is that your S.O. and his friends like to do, planning a weekend away—or even a night—will be much appreciated.

Schedule Special Quality Time

If your husband's love language is quality time, this special day is the perfect opportunity to really lean into that—especially if your schedules are really busy and you don't always get as much QT as you want. "Set aside time to spend together, whether it's a date night, a shared activity, or just cuddling on the couch watching a movie," suggests Bronstein. "Make sure to be present and engaged during this time."

Plan a Staycation

You don’t have to hop on a flight or spend hours in a car to enjoy a relaxing vacation. Pick out a romantic hotel in town, call up the babysitter (or dog sitter), and prepare to spend a romantic evening together. Whether you book a room with a city view or snag a spot at the bed and breakfast in town, a night away from your roles and responsibilities will do you good. If the place you’re staying offers a spa package, why not enjoy a couples massage? Eat at a nearby restaurant and grab cocktails at the hotel bar. Whatever you choose to do, a staycation will not only show your husband how much he means to you, but it will also rejuvenate you both.

Take Your Husband on a Food Tour

Is your hubby a total foodie? Plan a tour of his favorite foods and drinks. Start with a cocktail bar or brewery you know he loves or has always wanted to try, then head somewhere else for dinner. Is there a spot you two frequent? Or is there a place that is known for its superb prime rib? Head there next. Lastly, end your foodie tour with a place that serves his favorite dessert. Whether it’s the old-fashioned ice cream stand or a restaurant with a chocolate soufflé that’s to die for, he’ll love the idea of eating his favorite foods all night long.

Buy Something Your Husband Has Been Eyeing

Your husband likely has a purchase, big or small, he wants to make but is waiting for the right time to buy it. Why not make Husband Appreciation Day the right time? "Surprise him with a thoughtful gift that shows you know his interests and preferences. It doesn't have to be expensive; the thought and effort behind the gift are what matter most,' says Bronstein.

Sneakily try to figure out the research he’s already done so you can piggyback off of that to make your purchase more seamless. You could even pretend to show interest in what he’s researching to gather the information you need. Then, present him with the surprise gift. He’ll not only be thrilled about the gift itself but also that you’ve paid such close attention to what he wants.