NATIONAL DAYPOP CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

National Name Your Car Day

Celebrate the special bond with your vehicle, name it and share its story!

OCT2

Saturday, October 2Every year on October 2

days to go

Roots: Founded in 1990 by St. Louis TV reporter John Pertzborn.
Vibe: Nostalgic and playful.
Also on Oct 2: International Day of Non-Violence · World No Alcohol Day · Manufacturing Day
Hashtag: #NationalNameYourCarDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Pick a name

Look at your car, brainstorm names that fit its personality, and choose one.

WITH FRIENDS

Vote on car names

Share photos of your cars and let friends vote on the best names.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Label your parking spot

Put a fun name tag on your dashboard and share your car's name.

Plan ahead

National Name Your Car Day is observed on October 2 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Fri, Oct 2this year

2027Sat, Oct 2

2028Mon, Oct 2

2029Tue, Oct 2

2030Wed, Oct 2

2031Thu, Oct 2

2032Sat, Oct 2

2033Sun, Oct 2

2034Mon, Oct 2

2035Tue, Oct 2

2036Thu, Oct 2

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

A 2019 autowise.com poll found 40% of car owners name their vehicles.

The most popular car name in that survey was 'Betsy.'

The story

The tradition of naming cars dates back to the early 20th century when automobiles became commonplace in American households. As cars transformed from mere machines into extensions of personal identity, people began attributing names to their vehicles. This practice has become a cherished ritual for many, fostering a sense of companionship with their cars. Whether it’s a quirky nickname or a heartfelt name, each title reflects the owner’s personality and experiences.

Read the full story

National Name Your Car Day, observed on October 2, is a celebration that encourages individuals to recognize these relationships. The day was founded in 1990 by St. Louis TV reporter John Pertzborn, who named his 1954 Buick 'Elvis.' It serves as a reminder to take a moment out of our busy lives to appreciate the cars that accompany us on our journeys, both literal and metaphorical.

Naming a car can be as simple as choosing a favorite character from a movie or a beloved pet’s name. It can also be influenced by the car's color, model, or unique features. From classic names like “Betsy” to more modern choices like “Tesla,” the possibilities are endless. Many people even find joy in naming their cars after famous movie vehicles, such as “Eleanor” from *Gone in 60 Seconds* or “KITT” from *Knight Rider*.

On this day, car owners across the United States and beyond are encouraged to share their stories and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Social media platforms buzz with the names, pictures, and anecdotes, creating a vibrant community of car lovers. So, whether you drive a trusty sedan or a vintage convertible, take a moment to celebrate your automotive companion this October 2.