National Anthony Day

Categories:: Fun
Tags:: Appreciation
Where:: International
Date change rule:: Every May 12
Holiday emoji:: 👤

National Anthony Day celebrates individuals named Anthony every May 12. This day honors the English form of Antonius, a Roman family name meaning ‘priceless one,’ with roots stretching back to Etruscan times. Take a moment to appreciate the Anthonys in your life, share their stories, and make them feel truly special.

Deals
Platforms
Social
Hero
History
Timeline
Businesses
FAQs
Importance
Celebrate

Expected National Anthony Day Deals

While specific National Anthony Day promotions are rare, expect general appreciation deals around May 12 that can be easily gifted. Look for discounts on personalized items from retailers like Etsy and Things Remembered, or special offers on dining experiences at restaurants like Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza. Many local gift shops and florists may also run promotions on cards or bouquets. For a sweet treat, check for deals at bakeries such as St. Anthony’s Bakery. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as May 12 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Anthony Day

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalAnthonyDay. Film a short video celebrating an Anthony in your life, or share fun facts about famous Anthonys.

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalAnthonyDay. Post a photo of an Anthony you appreciate, or create a visual tribute to the name’s history.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalAnthonyDay. Share a quick shout-out to an Anthony, or tweet a fun poll about the best variant of the name.

National Anthony Day Hero

Marcus Antonius (Mark Antony)

Marcus Antonius, better known as Mark Antony, was a Roman politician and general who played a critical role in the transformation of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire. He was a loyal supporter of Julius Caesar and, after Caesar's assassination, formed the Second Triumvirate with Octavian and Lepidus. His dramatic life and eventual defeat by Octavian at the Battle of Actium are central to Roman history, cementing the name's ancient legacy.

History of National Anthony Day

Anthony is a predominantly masculine first name. Heavily associated with Christianity, the name is used in almost all parts of the world. In the United States, Anthony is ranked the 49th most popular name, with an estimated population of 973,782. The name was initially spelled as ‘Antony’ but evolved into ‘Anthony’ in the 17th century when it was derived from the Greek word ‘Anthos,’ meaning ‘flower.’

The U.S. Social Security Administration (S.S.A) data across 100 years shows that Anthony is used as a first name 94% of the time, and for every 100,000 Americans, there are about 305.4 people named Anthony. Among those bearing the name, 75.9% are White, 10.1% are Black, 9.8% are Hispanic, 2.3% are Asian or Pacific Islander, 1.4% are mixed race, and 0.5% are American Indian or Alaskan Natives. Other variants of the name produce different figures. For example, Antonio would be more prevalent in the Hispanic race than others.

In the U.S., about 115,507 Anthonys are concentrated in New York, but you are most likely to run into one in New Jersey because, for every 100,000 Jersey residents, there are approximately 663.37 people named Anthony.

National Anthony Day timeline

1937

Anthony Hopkins is Born

The Welsh actor, director, and producer Hopkins is born.

1999

The 900

Anthony Frank Hawk, famously known as Tony Hawk, becomes the first skateboarder to successfully perform a “900” trick.

2016

Anthony Joshua’s First World Title

Joshua claims the International Boxing Federation (I.B.F.)’s world title by beating Charles Martin in two rounds.

2020

Anthony Davis, a Champion

Davis wins his first National Basketball Association (N.B.A.) championship with the L.A. Lakers.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Anthony Day

Local businesses can join the celebration by offering special discounts or promotions to customers named Anthony, requiring ID for verification. Restaurants could feature an ‘Anthony’s Special’ dish or drink for the day. Retailers might curate a small gift guide for ‘The Anthony in Your Life,’ promoting personalized items or unique gifts. Even service-based businesses could run a social media contest asking people to tag an Anthony who deserves a free service or product.

National Anthony Day FAQs

When is National Anthony Day?

In 2027, National Anthony Day will be observed on Wednesday, May 12. This fixed date provides a consistent annual occasion to honor the name.

How many people are named Anthony?

While its peak popularity was decades ago, Anthony remains a widely recognized and beloved name. Recent estimates suggest that over 2.5 million people in the United States alone carry the name Anthony or one of its variants.

What does the name Anthony mean?

Tracing its roots to antiquity, the meaning of Anthony—’priceless’ or ‘flourishing’—has resonated through centuries. This enduring definition adds a layer of significance to those who bear the distinguished name.

Who are some famous Anthonys?

The roster of famous Anthonys is extensive, spanning various fields. From the literary contributions of Anthony Burgess to the political career of Anthony Fauci, the name is associated with influential figures across history and modern times.

National Anthony Day Activities

Say a prayer for them
Recite a prayer for everyone named Anthony. Ask for their continued happiness and safety.
Read about famous Anthonys
There have been quite a few Anthonys who have left their marks on history. Look up a list online and learn about their contributions to society.
Tell your friends
Tell all your friends, whether or not they’re named Anthony, about National Anthony Day! Get together to celebrate the Anthonys in your friend group.

5 Facts About Anthony Hopkins

He was knighted
In 1993, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.
He served in the British Military
Hopkins served in the British Army for two years before pursuing his acting career.
He turned down Bond villain roles
He has been rumored to turn down the role of the villain in the “James Bond” franchise.
He has an excellent memory
Hopkins memorized a seven-page courtroom speech for his role as Quincy Adams in the film “Amistad” and nailed the taping in one shot.
He didn’t blink for a role
He decided not to blink while playing Hannibal Lecter to make the character creepier.

Why We Love National Anthony Day

It inspires people
On National Anthony Day, notable Anthonys are in the spotlight. The day inspires people to emulate their journeys of success.
It encourages learning
Like many names, Anthony has a long history. Days like this encourage everyone to look up their names’ meanings and etymologies. You’re sure to pick up some titillating facts along the way.
It celebrates anyone named Anthony
You don’t have to be a celebrity to be celebrated. National Anthony Day makes everyone bearing the name feel special.