/ˈdrʌɡstɔːr ˈhɑːlədeɪz/ noun phrase
Definition: Those days on the calendar that make you feel guilty if you don’t acknowledge them. 20 years ago Mothers/Fathers Day were contenders. Now, Gorgeous Grandma Day will be here before you know it; race to the drugstore for a card. All your grandmother’s friends will be getting one. Better yet, plan a brunch.
Etymology
A term reflecting the shift from significant cultural or religious observances to “calendar-fillers” promoted by retail chains. Historically, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day were the primary examples. The term now encompasses a growing list of hyper-specific days, such as “Gorgeous Grandma Day,” which are often discovered last-minute on a drugstore card rack, prompting a “race” to acknowledge them to avoid social or familial comparison.
Usage
Context: Used to describe the pressure of keeping up with an ever-expanding social calendar. It suggests that these holidays are less about tradition and more about the “guilt” of not participating, especially when an entire social circle (like a grandmother’s group of friends) is expected to receive acknowledgment.
In a sentence: I nearly forgot it was Gorgeous Grandma Day until I saw the display; I had to make a run for a card before the drugstore holidays got the better of me.