Nationwide, February 10, 2026

The Monday following the Super Bowl is projected to see a record absenteeism rate with 26.2 million U.S. employees expected to miss work. This trend highlights the cultural significance of the event, as businesses may face up to $5.2 billion in lost productivity. The discussions surrounding the potential designation of this day as a national holiday are also gaining traction, emphasizing the need for flexible workplace policies that can accommodate employee satisfaction and community engagement.

Record Number of Workers Plan to Miss Work on Monday After Super Bowl

February 10, 2026 – Nationwide

The Monday after the Super Bowl has long been a day of increased absenteeism in the United States, and this year is set to break records. An astonishing 26.2 million U.S. employees are projected to skip work on February 13, according to the annual Super Bowl Absenteeism Survey conducted by UKG. This trend of workers taking the day off, coupled with the immense impact on productivity, raises questions about how businesses can adapt to this cultural phenomenon.

The anticipated absences could cost employers upwards of $5.2 billion in lost productivity, a statistic that small business owners and managers must be mindful of. For many entrepreneurs in Jacksonville and across the nation, the increased rate of absenteeism highlights the need for flexible workplace policies that foster employee satisfaction while minimizing the economic hit to their businesses. With nearly half of surveyed workers advocating for Super Bowl Monday to be designated as a national holiday, discussions on possible policy changes are gaining momentum.

The Cost of Super Bowl Monday

The forecasted absenteeism is broken down into several categories. Approximately 13.1 million workers are planning to take pre-approved days off, while 6.5 million will swap shifts with colleagues to ensure they do not miss out on the festivities. Meanwhile, an estimated 3.3 million employees are expected to call in sick, despite not being ill. This trend, often dubbed “Super Bowl flu,” underscores the cultural significance of the event and its spillover effects on workplace operations.

The Campaign for a National Holiday

The growing calls to make the Monday after the Super Bowl a recognized national holiday are backed by campaigns from notable figures, including former NFL quarterback Tom Brady. Initiatives like these not only encourage community engagement and support but also prompt a reevaluation of workplace norms that may better accommodate such widespread, celebratory events. By considering such changes, local businesses may be able to align more closely with employee needs while enhancing overall morale.

The Entrepreneurial Perspective

For local entrepreneurs, the prospect of a national holiday presents an opportunity to reflect on the operational impacts of workforce dynamics. Reducing red tape and allowing for a more flexible work environment could foster a culture of innovation and workplace satisfaction that benefits both employees and businesses. Adaptability is key, and Jacksonville entrepreneurs who recognize and address these cultural shifts will likely reap the benefits of a more engaged workforce.

Implications for Local Jacksonville Businesses

As Jacksonville continues to grow economically, addressing the implications of employee absenteeism due to significant cultural events will be essential for retaining competitive advantage. By exploring policies that prioritize work-life balance and employee well-being, local businesses can position themselves as leaders in strategic workforce management. Engaging with employees about flexible work arrangements and potential policies will be vital in preparation for future occurrences.

Conclusion

The record number of anticipated absences this Super Bowl Monday reflects a cultural trend that poses challenges and opportunities for entrepreneurs. As discussions surrounding the establishment of a national holiday gain traction, it is critical for Jacksonville’s small business owners to remain attuned to employee needs and preferences. By fostering an environment that supports balance and flexibility, Jacksonville can strengthen its economic foundation while encouraging community pride. Business leaders are encouraged to support local vibrant conversations on this topic to ensure the city remains a great place to work and live.

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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER

The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.