The major holidays might be behind us, but that doesn’t mean you can’t re-create the energy and excitement of the Christmas season by honoring some lower-profile holidays year-round. “And if you don’t like the usual holidays, make one up based on a celebrity’s birthday, astrological phenomenon or festival in a distant land,” recommends Wanda Ruiz, a salon owner and international educator for Team Creative.

Unfortunately, we’ve already missed Elvis’s birthday (FYI, its January 8), but here are some upcoming special days that are both notable and promotable:

Groundhog Day (February 2): Run specials on sunless tanning so clients will have that golden glow whether or not Punxsutawney Phil spots his shadow.

Vernal Equinox (March 21): On this first day of spring, check out the salon in a floral motif and set up an aromatherapy bar where clients can customize lotions and oils with their favorite botanical scents.

Tax Day (April 15): How about a free files giveaway for everyone who meets the Federal tax filing deadline? And have an extra staffer on hand to serve up free neck massages to anyone suffering from a pain in the neck courtesy of Uncle Sam.

Cinco De Mayo (May 5): Margarita pedicures incorporating an exfoliating salt scrub from foot to knee are a natural. How about a piñata filled with trial-size retail products?

Even a serious subject can spawn a festive event. For a recent breast cancer “fun-raiser”, Christine Turner (above right), owner of Body & Sol in New Westminster, British Columbia, decorated the salon inside and out with bras. The staff wore pink wigs and participants received pink cake, pink lemonade, and pink carnations.

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