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National Joel Day

Get ready to honor the name Joel on National Joel Day - a day dedicated to all the amazing Joels out there! Spread love and appreciation for this popular name.

Monday

January 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 11

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYNames

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate all things Joel on January 11 for National Joel Day! This day is dedicated to anyone named Joel, as well as the name's origins and meaning. Did you know that the name Joel has Hebrew roots and means "God is willing" or "Yahweh is God"? It's also been a popular name throughout history, with notable figures such as musician Billy Joel and actor Joel McHale bearing the name. So whether you're a Joel yourself or just want to honor someone special in your life with this name, let's make January 11 a day filled with appreciation and joy!

TIMELINE

National Joel Day Timeline

Joel McCrea's Hollywood Stardom

In the 1930s, actor Joel McCrea became a household name in Hollywood, raising the profile of the name Joel.

Billy Joel's Birth

Born in 1949, singer-songwriter Billy Joel would go on to achieve significant fame, further popularizing the name.

Joel's Popularity Peaks

The name Joel peaked in popularity in the 1980s in the United States, making it into the top 50 boys' names.

Joel Osteen's Rise

Joel Osteen became the pastor of Lakewood Church in 2001, drawing attention to the name Joel in religious communities.

Video Game Character 'Joel'

The popular video game "The Last of Us" introduced a main character named Joel, sparking new interest in the name.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Joel Day

Throw a Joel-themed party

Invite your friends and family over for a Joel-themed party! Decorate with photos, quotes, and memorabilia from the famous Joels like Billy Joel, Joel McHale, or Joel Osteen. Play their music or watch their movies for a truly celebratory atmosphere.

CREATE

Create a Joel-inspired dish

Get creative in the kitchen and try making a dish inspired by one of the Joels! Whether it's a Billy Joel-inspired pizza or a Joel McHale-inspired cocktail, the possibilities are endless and delicious.

WATCH

Watch a movie or TV show starring a Joel

Gather some friends and have a movie or TV show marathon featuring one of the famous Joels. Some options could include "The Piano Man" starring Billy Joel, "Community" starring Joel McHale, or "Joel Osteen: A Life Beyond Limits."

HOST

Host a Joel trivia night

Put your knowledge to the test and host a Joel trivia night! Come up with questions about their lives, careers, and accomplishments. You can even give out prizes to the winners.

DONATE

Donate to a charity supported by a Joel

Celebrate National Joel Day by giving back to a charity or cause supported by one of the Joels. You can donate money, volunteer your time, or spread awareness on social media.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Joel Day

There are endless ways to celebrate

Whether it's throwing a party in someone's honor or simply sending a heartfelt message, there are countless ways to show your appreciation on National Joel Day. Get creative and make this day special for the Joels in your life!

It celebrates a special person named Joel

National Joel Day is a chance to honor and appreciate all the amazing Joels in our lives. Whether it's a friend, family member, or significant other, this holiday is dedicated to showing them just how much they mean to us!

It brings people together

National Joel Day is not just for celebrating one specific person - it's also a day to commemorate all the Joels out there and bring people together. It's a great opportunity to reach out to old friends or make new connections, all in the name of joeliness!

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TUE

Jul 2026

Names

National Joey Day

Calling all Joeys! It's time to celebrate your name on National Joey Day - share your favorite stories, memories and jokes with fellow Joeys everywhere.

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SUN

Nov 2026