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National Gary Day

It's time to show some love for all the Garys out there on National Gary Day - let's make it a day they'll never forget!

Friday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATENovember 20

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYNames

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate all the amazing Garys in your life on November 20 for National Gary Day! This holiday was first established in 1996 as a way to honor and appreciate those with the name Gary, which means "spear" in Old English. Whether it's a family member, friend, or even a celebrity, take some time on this day to show your appreciation for all the wonderful Garys out there. And who knows, you may even discover some interesting facts about the name and its history – after all, variety is the spice of life (just like different types of noodles!). So let's raise a glass (or bowl of noodles) to all the fantastic Garys on this special day!

TIMELINE

National Gary Day Timeline

Gary Becomes Popular

The name Gary gains popularity in the English-speaking world during the 19th century.

First Famous Gary

Gary Cooper, renowned actor, becomes the first person named Gary to achieve global fame.

Apollo Moon Landing

Astronaut Gary L. Johnson is part of the team behind the successful Apollo 11 moon landing.

Nobel Prize Victory

Economist Gary Becker wins the Nobel Prize for Economics, further establishing the presence of the name in global consciousness.

Establishment of National Gary Day

National Gary Day was established to honor and celebrate all people named Gary globally.

Gary's in Popular Culture

The character Gary Oak from Pokemon becomes a beloved figure, cementing the popularity of the name in pop culture.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Gary Day

Throw a Gary-themed party

Invite your friends over and make everything about Gary! Decorate with pictures of Gary, serve Gary-themed snacks and drinks, and play games that are all about Gary.

CREATE

Create a Gary scavenger hunt

Hide pictures or items of Gary around your house or neighborhood and invite friends to participate in a scavenger hunt. The winner can receive a prize related to Gary.

WATCH

Watch a movie or TV show featuring Gary

Find a movie or TV show that features a character named Gary and watch it with friends. You can even dress up as your favorite Gary character for added fun.

COOK

Cook a meal inspired by Gary

Research dishes or recipes that have a connection to the name Gary and cook them for a fun and unique meal. You can also come up with your own Gary-inspired dish.

CREATE

Create a Gary-themed playlist

Gather songs with the name Gary in the title or lyrics and create a playlist to listen to throughout the day. This is a great way to get in the spirit of National Gary Day.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Gary Day

Garys bring joy to others' lives

Whether it's with their humor, kindness, or infectious positivity - Garys have a way of brightening up people's days. On National Gary Day, take some time to acknowledge and thank the Garys in your life for all the happiness and laughter they bring into your world.

It's a day to celebrate all things Gary

National Gary Day is a special day dedicated solely to those who share the name. It's a chance for all the Garys out there to come together and recognize their common bond, while also honoring their unique qualities and talents.

Garys are one-of-a-kind

Whether it's your friend, family member, coworker or even yourself - everyone knows at least one Gary who is truly unlike anyone else. National Gary Day is the perfect opportunity to appreciate and celebrate the unique personalities that make up the Gary community.

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SAT

Jun 2026