névnapok

Névnapok are days in the year designated to celebrate a person based on their given name. The tradition originated in the Christian calendar, where many days were the feast days of saints; people named after a particular saint would celebrate on that saint’s day. Over time, secular calendars in various regions expanded the concept to include common names that may not correspond to a specific saint, assigning a name day to each name or name variant.

In Hungary, névnapok is a well-established and widely observed tradition. Public and household calendars list the name days for each date, and it is common to greet someone with a "Boldog névnapot" on their day. Gifts such as flowers, sweets, or small presents are often exchanged, and some people treat their name day as an occasion comparable to a birthday. Because of spelling variations and cultural practices, many names have multiple possible name days or different regional variants.

The social significance of névnapok varies. In some circles, it remains an important yearly occasion, while in others it is a quieter or less formal celebration. Although rooted in religious history, contemporary observance in Hungary and neighboring countries is frequently secular, emphasizing social congratulations and community ties more than religious ritual.

Similar traditions exist in other Central and Eastern European countries, each with its own calendar and customs. While the specifics differ by language and culture, the core idea—celebrating a person on a day associated with their name—is a common thread.