2026 Guide to Employee Appreciation

City government thrives because of the people who keep services running, protect residents, maintain infrastructure, and support community life every day. To help cities recognize these essential public servants throughout the year, the Kentucky League of Cities compiled an Employee Recognition Calendar with a wide range of city-related recognition days, weeks, and months — from municipal employee appreciation opportunities to health, safety, cultural, and community observances. It serves as a ready-made planning tool that helps city leaders highlight their teams, elevate awareness, and create moments of gratitude.

KLC encourages cities to use these recognitions in simple, meaningful ways, including:

• Acknowledging employees during staff, department, or council meetings
• Issuing proclamations to spotlight employee groups or special observances
• Thanking city staff publicly through social media
• Sharing stories with local media about the value of city employees
• Offering personal thanks through notes, cards, phone calls, or brief visits
• Recognizing professionals in other fields who contribute to community well-being
• Using online resources for specific observances by searching the day, week, or month

To make recognition even easier, KLC provides sample city proclamations that may be used or adapted for municipal employee celebrations and other observances throughout the year.

• 2026 Employee Recognition Calendar
• Sample City Proclamations