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

Sweatshirts and fleeces are classics in the sports industry, across college campuses and for outdoors.

Whether you're outfitting employees, stocking a giveaway table or building team spirit, custom hoodies and sweatshirts are a go-to option for year-round comfort and brand visibility. They continue to be a classic, dominant product in the industry and beyond, with the projected market for sweatshirts and hoodies in the U.S. at $131 billion this year, according to Statista.

This soft fleece BELLA + CANVAS hoodie, made with a mix of Airlume combed and ring-spun cotton blends, features a pouch pocket, ribbed trim and unisex fit. It also has a tear-away label and is DTG-friendly for easy custom printing. Perfect for sports teams or music festivals.

Crafted from 100% recycled polyester fleece, this Patagonia full-zip jacket has a sweater-knit face, stand-up collar and multiple zippered pockets. Raglan sleeves and flat seams add another element of comfort. Great fit for eco-focused companies or outdoor events.

This classic Gildan heavy blend crewneck blends cotton and polyester for everyday comfort. It features ribbed trim, double-needle stitching and a tear-away label. Ideal for campus giveaways or school club merch.

Made from 16 recycled water bottles, this quarter-zip is a functional, eco-conscious choice, with lightweight warmth, raglan sleeves and a locker loop. A smart fit for corporate sustainability initiatives or fitness programs.

Soft and durable, this cotton-poly blend sweatshirt features a metal zipper, rib-knit cuffs and handy side pockets. It’s ring-spun for comfort and available in a range of colors. A good choice for alumni weekends or company milestone celebrations.

Perfect for athletic departments or brand loyalty programs, this Nike hoodie blends a classic design with cozy fleece. Made with an 80 to 20 cotton-poly blend and lined with 100% cotton.