National George Day is observed on May 25 annually. The day is designed to express our appreciation for everyone named George, so if you’re named George or know someone named George, use this day to honor them (or yourself). ‘George is a masculine name derived from the Greek word ‘Georgios,’ which means ‘farmer.’ It is a fairly common name for children and is typically masculine. Read on to learn more about the origins of this much-loved name.
History of National George Day
George is a name derived from the Greek ‘Gergios.’ Before that, it may have been a theophoric name with historical roots in Zeus Georgos, a slightly earlier title of the Greek god Zeus, and rising in popularity due to its associations with the Christian martyr Saint George and a Praetorian Guard officer, executed for refusing to renounce Christianity. Although its religious significance has waned among modern populations, it is still one of the most frequently used names in the Western world.
As per Social Security data, George has risen and fallen but has remained in the overall ranking since 2000. George even broke into the top 120 in 2019, peaking at 119 before falling slightly again. Statistics reveal that George reached its peak popularity in the last five years, in June 2020. George is a famous royal and saintly name because it was the identifier of the king of England for 116 years and the name of Saint George, who represents good triumphing over evil.
George Washington, George Bush, George Clooney, George Foreman, George Harrison, George Shaw, George Gershwin, George Handel, George Burns, George Shearing, George Steinbrenner, and George Lopez are a few other instances of famous people with the name George.
National George Day timeline
George Lucas releases "Star Wars," his most successful film to date and one of the highest-grossing films of all time.
Strait’s single ‘Unwound’ reaches number six on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
'Careless Whisper,' Michael’s first solo single, debuts at number one in over 20 countries.
According to “Forbes” magazine, George Soros is number 162 on the list of the most wealthy individuals in the world, with an estimated net worth of $8.3 billion.
National George Day FAQs
What does ‘George’ mean in the “Bible?”
In ancient times, ‘George’ meant “one who works the earth,” an expanded version of its Greek origin, denoting ‘farmer’ or ‘earth-worker.’
What race is the name George?
George is of Irish, English, Welsh, South Indian Christian, Middle Eastern Christian (usually Lebanese), French, or Native American origin.
Why is George such a popular name?
In the U.S., George is the 166nd most popular name, but it was among the five most popular one century ago, most likely because of the first president, George Washington.
National George Day Activities
Appreciate people named George
Show your gratitude to all the incredible Georges in your life. Pamper them with gifts or flowers to show them how much you appreciate them.
Throw a party
Gather your George-named coworkers in your office. Celebrate National George Day by throwing an appreciation party. You and your coworkers can thank them with gifts and cards.
Take a George out to dinner
Celebrate this special day by taking your friend George out for a fun time. He will undoubtedly appreciate the gesture.
5 Famous Georges
George Clooney
Clooney may be one of the best-known Georges; the actor, director, and filmmaker has starred in “E.R” and the “Ocean's Eleven” trilogy.
George Michael
Michael found fame as the lead singer of ‘Wham!’ before going solo; he sold more than 80 million records worldwide before he died on Christmas Day, 2016.
George Best
Best, a football player among the most well-known of all time, was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland; he played with Manchester United for most of his playing career.
Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge
Louis, the eldest child of Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, is third in line to the throne.
George Washington
Washington was the first ever president of the United States, serving from 1789 to 1797.
Why We Love National George Day
We learn about a name’s history
George is a well-known name. This holiday is a perfect opportunity to learn where it originates.
It’s a day to celebrate
Name Days have the distinct advantage of existing independently of birthdays. More individuals are taking advantage of their cultural significance, especially since humans are always looking for excuses to stop and enjoy life.
It honors all Georges
Whether you believe it or not, this day is important if you are George. Every George has the chance to stand out on one of the many hundreds of days in a year.
National George Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | May 25 | Sunday |
2026 | May 25 | Monday |
2027 | May 25 | Tuesday |
2028 | May 25 | Thursday |
2029 | May 25 | Friday |