National Jake Day is on May 28 each year. If you know someone named Jake and love him, today’s the day for showing it because he’s earned it. The name Jake has had a fascinating journey through history. He took himself way too seriously in the Bible. A master trickster, wealth amasser — someone who would rather wrestle with angels than face himself. Today, Jake’s a more easy-going guy. He’s so chill that he’s become an excellent adjective in Australia — life’s a breeze when everything’s “Jake.” We love Jake in all his avatars. The world officially recognizes your awesomeness today.
History of National Jake Day
Where did the name Jake originate? Many people believe its roots come from Middle English as an old variant of ‘Jack.’ The Scottish version was Jock, a nickname for John. The clue is in the name, ‘supplanter’ in Hebrew, better known as Jacob of the Old Testament.
Jacob in the Bible is best known for his cunning ways — a character trajectory that begins before he was born. In the book of Genesis, his mother Rebekah (while carrying two babies) felt the fraternal twins fighting inside her womb. The rivalry between the two endured, shaping the future of the two nations. Jacob would lead Israel. His brother, Esau, would be the forefather of Edom. The name Jake may not carry the same weight. Still, there are lessons from the symbolism behind Jacob. Jake personifies our humanity. How each one of us struggles with our demons and yet rises above.
Jake has been considered more of a nickname than traditional names like Jacob or John because it is one syllable and snappy. The name, however, still has virtuous meaning aside from the ‘supplanter’ we have all come to know. Jake or Jacob also means ‘God is gracious.’
Also, a Latin derivative of the Hebrew name ‘Yaakov’ which was thought initially to be derived from the word ‘akev,’ which means ‘at the heel,’ the name Jacob has been on the rise in the United States for the last two centuries. During the late 1990s and early 2000s, the name entered the Top 100 list of most popular masculine names.
National Jake Day timeline
The Book of Genesis first mentions Jacob, the son of Rebecca and Isaac.
When the name first appeared in the year 1880, 96 newborn babies were given the name.
The name, Jacob, entered the Top 100 list of most popular masculine names.
Jake Gyllenhaal wins the BAFTA for his role in “Brokeback Mountain.”
National Jake Day FAQs
What is the female version of Jake?
Jacobina, Jacobine, or Jacqueline.
Is Jake a cool name?
Jake featured in the top 100 list of popular names in the U.S. from the 1990s to the early 2000s. While Jake is traditionally a nickname, American families also use the name by itself.
What animal is a Jake?
Jake is a young male turkey.
National Jake Day Activities
Appreciate a Jake
Do you know and love a Jake? Buy him coffee or swing by with a six-pack. Go out of your way to make his day special.
Watch Jake-inspired shows
Today’s ideal for a Jake Gyllenhaal movie night — arguably the most famous Jake of them all. We love “Nightcrawler” and “Donnie Darko.” You can also count on the lovable Jake Peralta in “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” to make your day.
Introspect and challenge old beliefs
Jacob’s story in the Bible demonstrates a universal struggle, the need to explore the self and, by extension, understand the world. Take the time for quiet contemplation today.
5 Mind-blowing Facts About Jakes
It resonates with generosity
People who bear the name Jake are humanitarians and generous individuals.
They have good genes
Most Jakes look younger than their age.
Natural born leaders
Jakes have a good sense of humor and prefer to lead than follow.
Vocational tendencies
Jakes are likely to become composers, entertainers, religious zealots, actors, or artists.
They have lucky days
Lucky days for Jakes are believed to be Mondays and Fridays.
Why We Love National Jake Day
Who doesn’t love Jake?
The Jakes we know are universally loved, but do they know this? Today’s the chance to express just how fun, affable, and infinitely charming they are.
A reminder of our humanity
Jacob’s story inspires us to confront our demons. The only way out is through, after all.
A celebration for just being
Celebrations don’t always have to be grand events. Occasions like these celebrate everyday people and heroes in their own right
National Jake Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2024 | May 28 | Tuesday |
2025 | May 28 | Wednesday |
2026 | May 28 | Thursday |
2027 | May 28 | Friday |
2028 | May 28 | Sunday |