Don’t want to get lost in the sea of promotions running during the holidays from October through December? Consider running a promotion in conjunction with a more obscure, non-traditional holiday. Here are some of our favorite holidays that are ripe for a sweeps or contest tie-in.
- Betty White’s Birthday: January 17
Betty White, everyone’s favorite grandmotherly actress, will be celebrating her 93rd birthday in 2015. Last year, her birthday celebration was covered by every major news outlet and NBC ran a Betty White Birthday Special in her honor. Join the celebration with a Betty White trivia contest or “I <3 Betty” sweepstakes.
- Groundhog Day: February 2
Turns out the cult classic Bill Murray movie was on to something. When people think of Groundhog Day these days, it’s more than just the little guy seeing his shadow (or not). It’s also about being stuck in a rut and reliving the same day over and over. Inspire people to break out of the rut and change their life with a contest, or offer a high value prize that could change someone’s life.
- National Teacher’s Day: May 5 (Tuesday of the first full week in May)
Every elementary school child (and their PTA moms) have been celebrating this day – and sometimes the full week – with teacher recognition awards, baked goods and cards. Get in on the action with a Favorite Teacher Promotion!
- National Ice Cream Day: July 20
This is where I insert the shameless plug for one of the Frozen Dairy Treat Companies we work with here…. Wait. No, can’t do that.
But seriously, who doesn’t like ice cream? Give it away free on this day at your locations, or hold a sweeps or New Flavor Contest in conjunction with an ice cream company or restaurant.
- Talk Like a Pirate Day: September 19
Argh! Long John Silver’s and Krispy Kreme have run pirate-themed promotions on this day in the past. Now it’s your turn! Ask customers to dress like a pirate and post their selfies in a sweeps to win free swag, or go bigger and give away a family cruise in a pirate-themed contest.
Need more ideas? Contact us and we will consult our calendar! There is an obscure holiday on almost every day of the year. Let us help you find a reason to celebrate!
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