National Wingman Day

Categories:: Special Interest
Tags:: American Cultural Friendship
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every February 13
Holiday emoji:: 🤝

National Wingman Day celebrates supportive friends and sidekicks every February 13. Held the day before Valentine’s Day, it’s the perfect occasion to show appreciation for those who always have your back, offer encouragement, and lend a hand. Plan a special outing, send a thoughtful gift, or simply reach out to thank your most reliable ally.

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Expected National Wingman Day Deals

While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows that National Wingman Day, often overshadowed by Valentine’s Day, still sees brands offering subtle nods to friendship and camaraderie. Look for deals from casual dining spots like Buffalo Wild Wings or Chili’s, perfect for a buddy meal. Beverage companies such as Bud Light or Coors Light might run ‘buy one, get one’ offers on drinks. Retailers like Best Buy or GameStop could feature ‘player two’ discounts on gaming accessories. Even movie theaters like AMC or Regal might offer special pricing for pairs. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as February 13 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Wingman Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalWingmanDay. Share photos or reels celebrating your best wingman, highlighting their support and friendship.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalWingmanDay. Film short videos showcasing funny or heartwarming ‘wingman moments’ with your friends.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalWingmanDay. Tweet out a shout-out to your wingman, sharing a quick story or a GIF that represents your bond.

National Wingman Day Hero

The Wingman Archetype

While no single historical figure is credited with founding National Wingman Day, the concept of a 'wingman' has deep roots in popular culture and social dynamics. The term itself originated in military aviation, referring to a pilot who flies alongside another, providing support and protection. Over time, it evolved to describe a friend who helps another person in social situations, particularly in dating. This archetype embodies loyalty, encouragement, and selfless support, making it a universally recognized symbol of true friendship.

History of National Wingman Day

In case you are wondering where the term ‘wingman comes from, it’s from the U.S. Air Force flying community. The word stems from a time-honored tradition that says a wingman will always watch the lead pilot´s back, stay with and protect him or her. The term originated in combat aviation. When pilots are flying in formation, especially in training for combat or in actual aerial combat, the person next to the pilot is referred to as the wingman. The pilot is traditionally on their right but they are sometimes on either side.

The wingman is the man on the pilot’s wing. Pilots are often trained to attack and defend in pairs watching out for each other in aerial combat. This Culture of Airmen includes integrity, service before self, and excellence in all they do. They accomplish their mission as a dedicated team. To succeed, airmen engage with other airmen in a way that fosters communication and connection. Practicing to be a good wingman needs to happen daily.

The idea behind National Wingman Day is that every day should be a Wingman Day. In everyday life, a wingman is part of a pair of friends socializing together, approaching other pairs and groups while avoiding the awkwardness of acting alone. The wingman strikes up a conversation and proposes group social activities, providing their friend with a pleasant and unthreatening social pretext to chat or flirt with a particularly attractive person. The wingman can also keep their friends safe by preventing them from drinking excessively or behaving in a reckless or socially embarrassing way.

National Wingman Day timeline

1986

The Term “Wingman” is Popularized

This term is popularized in the romantic military action drama film “Top Gun”, in which U.S. Navy pilots are shown in a bar pursuing women in pairs, similar to their in-flight tactics.

1960

The Film “The Apartment”

Another wingman is portrayed by Bud Baxter, who loans his New York apartment to four of his bosses as a place for their extramarital affairs.

1966

The Film ”Swingers”

In this film, the main character, Trent, tries to help his heartbroken friend Mike get back into the dating game.

2016

National Wingman Day is Created

The Wingman Day concept was established in October 2004 by the chief of staff of the Air Force, Gen. John P. Jumper.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Wingman Day

Local businesses can tap into National Wingman Day by creating special offers designed for pairs. Restaurants and bars could offer ‘buy one, get one free’ deals on appetizers or drinks, or a ‘Wingman Combo’ meal. Retailers might promote ‘friendship discounts’ on complementary items, encouraging customers to shop for their best pal. Even service-based businesses, like escape rooms or axe-throwing venues, could offer group rates to celebrate camaraderie. Encourage customers to share their ‘wingman moments’ on social media for a chance to win prizes, boosting engagement and local visibility.

National Wingman Day FAQs

When is National Wingman Day?

In 2027, National Wingman Day is observed on Saturday, February 13. This weekend placement makes it an ideal day to celebrate your supportive pals with a fun outing or gathering.

How many people have a wingman?

Millions of individuals across the United States and globally rely on close friends for support, encouragement, and advice, fitting the definition of a wingman. The informal nature of the role means its prevalence is widespread, even if not formally tracked.

What makes a good wingman?

For 2027, the qualities of an excellent wingman remain timeless: loyalty, empathy, and a keen understanding of their friend’s needs. They know when to step in and when to step back, ensuring their friend feels empowered and valued.

What is the origin of the term 'wingman'?

By 2027, the term ‘wingman’ is widely understood in its social context, but its roots are in aerial combat. The analogy of a supportive pilot watching your back perfectly translates to a friend offering assistance in various life situations.

National Wingman Day Activities

Share your wingman story
This day is about honoring our friends and right hands. So, if you have a story in which your BFF lent you a hand when you needed it, share it on your social media.
Say thank you to your wingman
Be creative about expressing your appreciation for their role in your life. Give them a special treat to thank them for their loyalty and support.
Show support to your wingman
Switch roles and step up to support your buddy in difficult circumstances. A good relationship is about being there for each other always.

5 Facts About Wingmen

The Day aims to boost morale
The day is aimed at strengthening morale in the units of the Air Force.
The teaching on Wingman Day
On this day it is again instilled in airmen that they should take care of one another.
Wingmen are not only people
Your dog can also be your wingman. Many people are attracted to dogs and will start a conversation with dog owners.
“Wingman” was coined in the Air Force
The word “wingman” is jargon used in the Airforce to describe the person looking out for the pilot in a plane.
Wingmen are protectors
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the wingman is the pilot that flies behind or at the side of the squadron leader.

Why We Love National Wingman Day

It is time to spoil loyal friends
Showing appreciation for your wingman’s efforts throughout the year should be your main priority on this day. Go on and spoil them.
Its time to hang out with a pal
Seek out your wingman and schedule some time together. You can reminisce about past exploits and hang out in style or casually.
You can help out a buddy
Use the day to be a wingman to your buddy. Go out of your way to do something you know they will truly appreciate.