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

The biggest promo focus in July is undoubtedly Independence Day, with flags and red, white and blue accessories everywhere. But it’s far from the only opportunity to build a unique – and impactful – campaign during the heart of summer. Whether it’s spotlighting small businesses or encouraging a day at the waterpark, these July observances are perfect canvases for an inspiring summer promo campaign.

Independent Retailer Month

The goal of this month-long observance is to encourage consumers to shop local and support their favorite indie retailers, from restaurants to bookstores to home goods.

Pitch: Work with your town chamber of commerce to distribute branded tote bags, stickers or other goodies for local small businesses to give out to their customers during the month of July.

Foldable reusable grocery tote bag

July 5: National Graham Cracker Day

Despite the graham cracker’s unique origins as a supposed health food, they’re most well-known today for their use in desserts – which makes this observance the perfect excuse for a sweet promo campaign.

Pitch: Take inspiration from this observance at your next company picnic or employee appreciation event and send attendees home with a s’mores kit.

S’mores kit bag

July 15: National Give Something Away Day

National Give Something Away Day is all about doing something selfless for others: giving away time, money or no-longer-needed items. In the spirit of this observance, companies in any vertical can give out promo, but bonus points for campaigns centered around making someone smile.

Pitch: Organize a company-wide volunteer day, and thank participants with a little something to brighten up their desks.

Ceramic planter set

July 24: National Drive-Thru Day

National Drive-Thru Day got its start at a drive-up-only Jack in the Box restaurant in San Diego more than 70 years ago – and it lives on today in Americans’ love for the fast-food pit stop mid-road trip and in the many restaurants that also offer carryout services.

Pitch: Suggest that restaurant chains – or any restaurant offering drive-up takeout – thank their customers for stopping by with a car-themed promotion like an accessory kit or cell phone holder.

Universal magnetic car phone holder

July 28: National Waterpark Day

In the heat of the summer, what kid doesn’t like a day at the waterpark? Founded by Kalahari Resorts – an indoor waterpark chain – this observance aims to celebrate just that.

Pitch: Waterparks and swimming pools can give out toys like these reusable water balloons with an admission purchase on National Waterpark Day.

Reusable water balloons

Add an extra boost of recognition to your next promotional campaign with items from fan-favorite retail brands.

What’s hot in retail has always influenced what’s hot in promo. That goes for individual products and the current “it brands” in apparel, drinkware and beyond – and it’s not just about following the crowd that makes these brands special. In fact, three-quarters of end-buyers would have a more favorable view of an advertiser if they were given name-brand promotional apparel instead of a generic product, according to a recent study from ASI Research.

The 20 oz YETI Rambler is ideal for camping aficionados and morning commuters alike. It features a splash-resistant lid and double-wall insulation to keep drinks at the perfect temperature.

A perfect layer for unpredictable weather, this cotton/poly blend Carhartt hoodie is durable and warm. Great for the construction or manufacturing industries.

Crafted from 100% recycled polyester fleece and Fair Trade Certified, this full-zip Patagonia vest features a sweater-knit face, fleece interior and zippered pockets.

This 40 oz thermal tumbler from growing drinkware brand Owala is double-wall vacuum insulated with a dual-purpose threaded lid and built-in straw. Great for Gen Z-targeted promotions.

Transition seamlessly from the workplace to the golf course with a Peter Millar performance polo in a variety of striped patterns. A classic corporate gift.

Keep drinks cold for hours with a smaller version of the Stanley Quencher tumbler, made from recycled stainless steel and featuring a versatile FlowState lid.