Start presenting ideas to clients for promotional campaigns centered around December observances.

December campaigns are almost always centered on the big-name events of the holiday season. But there’s plenty of opportunity with unique observances to make those general year-end thank-yous a bit more specialized. Here are a few other suggestions for December observances worth celebrating.

Dec. 4: National Sock Day

National Sock Day is a particular celebration of the rarest of all phenomena: a matching pair of socks. And with socks still having a moment – even with strappy sandals – they’re a unique, on-trend choice for a fun appreciation campaign.

Offer colorful custom crew socks in holiday gifting kits aimed at children’s organizations or wellness initiatives.

Dec. 7: Letter Writing Day

In the age of ever-evolving technology, take things old school with this observance that celebrates a good, old handwritten letter.

Suggest that company managers or senior leadership handwrite thank-you notes to 2025’s highest performers on custom letterhead or stationery.

Dec. 9: International Day of Veterinary Medicine

December is a time when many furry friends tend to find their new homes as holiday gifts for children getting their first pet or families looking to add another member. It’s only fitting, then, that this observance celebrating the people who make sure our pets stay happy and healthy – veterinarians – is also in December.

Healthcare systems or vet offices can show a little extra appreciation for employees with a quality piece of branded apparel.

Dec. 19: National Ugly Sweater Day

Celebrated on the third Friday of December each year – undoubtedly to offer the opportunity for many an Ugly Sweater party – this observance embraces the tacky, garish side of the holiday season with quirky patterned sweaters complete with all the bells and whistles.

Feature an ugly sweater contest at the office holiday party, and gift the winner a nice bottle of something – complete with a sweater.

Dec. 22: National Cookie Exchange Day

National Cookie Exchange Day indulges the best part of the holiday season: sweet treats. Baking and swapping cookies with friends, family and neighbors is a beloved tradition for many during the month of December.

Local bakeries can market to busy folks who don’t have the time to bake something fresh for their family cookie exchange with quality branded packaging.

Maximize the holiday and gift-giving season with these festive promotional items.

Seasonal promotions are a way to connect with audiences in a festive, memorable way. From custom ornaments and cozy apparel to playful accessories and packaging, these holiday-ready items can help brands capitalize on the gift-giving season rife with consumer spending. Last year, the average U.S. consumer was projected to spend more than $1,000 in holiday-related purchases – up almost 8% from 2023, according to The Conference Board.

Made from durable zinc alloy with a 2-D custom shape, these ornaments with metallic hanging cord come in six different metal finishes and up to four soft enamel colors. Perfect for an annual donor gift or seasonal retail campaign.

This 3” glass ornament with color-changing illumination and pad print customization is available in assorted colors and adds a festive glow anywhere it’s displayed. Great for corporate holiday parties.

Festive and functional, this 100% acrylic stocking features a snowflake design and can be customized with logos or messages. Ideal for holiday employee gift packages or a winter giveaway.

This dimensional ornament is made with multiple layers of laser-cut birch wood with a clear acrylic cover and glitter accent. Can be engraved or stained for a fully custom look, making it well-suited for artisan brands or holiday parties.

Available in full color with up to six design shades, these fully customizable holiday sweaters come in a wide range of sizes and include branded tags and fast turnaround. Think social media unboxings and holiday contest winners.

This classic Santa hat – complete with red felt and white trim – is ready for custom imprinting. A must for holiday parades or office celebrations.

Start presenting ideas to clients for promotional campaigns centered around November observances.

November marks the rapid approach of peak holiday season – the culmination of Q4 gifting and end-of-year appreciation initiatives. It’s easy to keep your pitching eye on those major initiatives, but don’t discount opportunities in November to stand out in a sea of red and green holiday campaigns. Here are a few suggestions for clients in industries from hospitality to dance.

Nov. 2: World Ballet Day

This annual celebration is a collaboration among several of the world’s leading ballet companies that aims to foster appreciation for the art form and to offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of dance.

Dance studios or ballet companies should host a family-oriented event to engage more kids and young people with ballet.

Ballet slipper magnet

Nov. 5: Eating Healthy Day

Celebrated on the first Wednesday of November each year, Eating Healthy Day is, as the name suggests, meant to encourage healthy habits and nutrition – eating lots of fruits and vegetables, focusing on lean proteins and whole grains, and drinking plenty of water.

Cater a healthy office lunch, and order branded food storage containers for employees to take leftovers home – and encourage healthy packed meals for their next trip to the office.

Bento box

Nov. 12: National Happy Hour Day

The term “happy hour” may date back to the days of Prohibition, but its age doesn’t make it any less of an American staple for post-work drinks and nibbles.

Suggest that clients host a team-bonding or brainstorming-based happy hour at a local favorite spot – complete with a bit of entertainment as well as libations.

Tabletop tumble tower

Nov. 27 - Dec. 5: National Tree Week

National Tree Week is technically a U.K.-based observance, but with the increasing importance of sustainability in the promo industry all around, an end-of-year campaign pitch focused on the natural world would hardly be out of place.

Recommend that clients have trees planted on behalf of the company – and give out seeds or planters to employees to show end-of-year gratitude, and to do some planting of their own.

Modern Sprout rooted candle

Nov. 30: National Mason Jar Day

Mason jars were patented way back in 1858 and have been used by canners and cooks alike ever since – though they experienced a particular revival during the 2010s as decoration and drinkware.

Local bars and restaurants should offer cocktail, mocktail or coffee specials in branded mason jars to attract shoppers out and about during holiday shopping season.

Mason jar glass