National Anthony Day is celebrated every May 12. It’s a day that honors those named Anthony, the English form of Antonius, a Roman family name of Etruscan origin, which supposedly means “priceless one.” The most notable member of the Antonius family was Marcus Antonius, who ruled the Roman Empire with Augustus in the first century B.C. In the 4th century, the name was used regularly in the Christian world after Saint Anthony the Great and Saint Anthony of Padua, the Patron Saint of Portugal. In addition, it has several variants, including Antony, Antoine, Anton, Antonio, and the female version, Anthonia.
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
The Welsh actor, director, and producer Hopkins is born.
Anthony Frank Hawk, famously known as Tony Hawk, becomes the first skateboarder to successfully perform a “900” trick.
Joshua claims the International Boxing Federation (I.B.F.)’s world title by beating Charles Martin in two rounds.
Davis wins his first National Basketball Association (N.B.A.) championship with the L.A. Lakers.
National Anthony Day FAQs
How old is Anthony Hopkins?
Hopkins is 84 years old.
What is a good nickname for Anthony?
Tony is the usual nickname for Anthony.
What is the French equivalent of Anthony?
Antoine is the French equivalent of Anthony.
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.
National Anthony Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | May 12 | Sunday |
| 2025 | May 12 | Monday |
| 2026 | May 12 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | May 12 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | May 12 | Friday |
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