nimipäiväkalentereita

Nimipäiväkalentereita, also known as name day calendars, are lists or publications that assign specific days of the year to given names. These calendars are most prominent in certain European countries, particularly in Nordic and Baltic regions, as well as in some Eastern European and Catholic countries. The practice of celebrating name days has historical roots in the veneration of saints, where each saint was commemorated on a particular day. Over time, these saint's days became associated with individuals who shared the same name, evolving into a custom of celebrating one's personal name day.

The specific names included and their assigned days can vary significantly between different countries and even within regions of the same country, often reflecting local traditions and historical influences. Some name days are based on widely recognized saints, while others may be tied to more obscure figures or even have more secular origins in modern times. In many societies where name days are celebrated, it is common to give gifts or send cards on a person's name day, similar to how birthdays are observed. This custom can be a significant social event, especially for children, and is often a topic of conversation and planning among families and friends. The widespread availability of name day calendars, whether in print or digital formats, facilitates the tracking and celebration of these personal observances.