National William Day

Next celebratedWednesday, October 28, 2026

Calling all Williams, Wills, and Bills - it's time to show some love on National William Day! Let's celebrate the name that has been shared by kings, poets, and everyday people alike.

See how to celebrate

Countdown to the day

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Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar TeamHave an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEOctober 28

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYNames

INTRO

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate all the amazing people named William on National William Day on October 28! This holiday was first created to honor the name "William", which has been a popular name for centuries and has roots in many different cultures. Fun fact: the name William means "protector" or "resolute protector". So if you know someone named William, make sure to show them some extra love and appreciation on this special day. Whether it's your friend, family member, or significant other, take the time to celebrate their unique qualities and all they bring to your life.

TIMELINE

National William Day Timeline

William the Conqueror

William the Conqueror, also known as William I, becomes King of England, solidifying the name William's association with leadership.

Birth of William Blake

Poet and painter William Blake is born. He would later become one of England's most iconic writers and artists.

Birth of William Gedney Bunce

American landscape painter, William Gedney Bunce, is born. He becomes known as for his Venetian-themed works.

Death of William Quantrill

William Quantrill, notorious Confederate guerrilla leader during the American Civil War, dies this year.

Birth of William Reid

William Reid, pivotal member of the British rock band "The Jesus and Mary Chain," is born.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National William Day

Host a William-themed party

Invite all your friends named William and have a party in their honor! Decorate with William-inspired decorations and have William-themed games and activities.

TRY

Try out a new William-inspired recipe

Search for dishes that have the name William in them, such as William's Chicken Alfredo or William's Beef Stroganoff. Get creative in the kitchen and celebrate with a delicious meal.

CREATE

Create a William Day scavenger hunt

Hide trivia questions or facts about famous people named William around your house or neighborhood. Have your friends compete to see who can find and answer the most questions correctly.

WATCH

Watch movies or TV shows featuring characters named William

Gather your friends and have a movie or TV marathon featuring characters with the name William. Some options could include William Shakespeare, Prince William, or William Wallace.

CREATE

Create a William Day playlist

Compile a playlist of songs that have the name William in the title or artist's name. Play it throughout the day to celebrate all the amazing people named William.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National William Day

William is a strong and timeless name

The name William has been around for centuries and has stood the test of time. It's a classic and powerful name that has been held by many influential figures throughout history. National William Day is a celebration of this enduring name and all those who bear it.

It's a day to celebrate your name

National William Day is a special holiday for all the people named William. It's a day to embrace and appreciate your unique name and all the characteristics and qualities that come with it.

It's a chance to connect with others who share your name

On National William Day, you may come across other people with the same name as you. It's an opportunity to bond over your shared name and potentially make new friends or connections.

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