Nevnap

Nevnap, or névnap in Hungarian, is the day designated for celebrating a person based on their given name. In many Central and Eastern European cultures, a name day corresponds to the feast day of a saint who bears the same name in the Christian liturgical calendar. When a name is associated with more than one saint, the celebration may follow the most commonly observed feast or multiple dates.

Observance of the name day typically resembles a birthday celebration in miniature. People offer greetings, small gifts, or flowers, and families and friends may gather for a meal or a party. Name days are commonly listed in calendars, almanacs, and, in some places, newspapers, making it easy to remember when to acknowledge someone with good wishes.

History and scope: The practice has its roots in the veneration of saints within Catholic and Orthodox traditions, where the saint’s feast day serves as a yearly occasion for those who share that name. Over time, local customs and secular influences have shaped how name days are observed. While especially prominent in Hungary, the tradition exists in other countries with varying calendars, customs, and levels of emphasis.

Modern notes: With globalization and digital tools, name days are often remembered through electronic reminders and social networks. Today, the nevnap remains an informal cultural marker, reflecting naming practices and community ties rather than an official holiday.