National Name Your Car Day

National Name Your Car Day is observed October 2 each year. It’s a fun and informal day to celebrate the bond many of us have with our vehicles by giving them a name — treating your car like more than just transportation, but as a companion with character.

History of National Name Your Car Day

This day was created to give people a reason to personalize their cars by naming them. It plays off the age-old tradition of assigning human traits to objects we care about, making them feel more like partners on the road.

Even though it’s not clear exactly when or where the holiday was first celebrated, it has become more popular in recent years. Social media, car enthusiast groups, and pop culture references (from movies, TV shows, etc.) have helped spread the idea.

Why is National Name Your Car Day important?

This day matters because naming something tends to deepen our attachment and respect for it. When people name their cars, they often treat them with more care — regular maintenance, cleaning, even checking safety more carefully — because the car feels like more than just an object.

It also encourages creativity, identity, and storytelling. Your car’s name can reflect its look, its history, your personality, or even inside jokes. Sharing the name can spark friendly conversations and connect people with similar vibes.

• because it makes you care a bit more about something you use every day
• because choosing a name can be fun and personal
• because it can lead people to keep up with maintenance or safety more attentively
• because stories behind names connect us — we like sharing and laughing about them
• because it reminds us that even small rituals can make life more enjoyable

How to Celebrate National Name Your Car Day

If you have a car that doesn’t yet have a name, pick one today. Look at its color, model, quirks, or what it means to you — let that inspire something memorable.

Do something nice for your car too: wash it, check the tire pressure, maybe get a little tune-up. Then take it for a drive — even just around town — and enjoy the experience with its new name. You could also share the name and story on social media, invite friends to do the same, or see what names others have picked.

• pick a name that suits your car’s personality or appearance
• give your car a good clean or small maintenance as a treat
• take it out for a spin and enjoy driving
• share the name and story with friends or online
• maybe decorate it a little, or put a sticker with its name somewhere

National Name Your Car Day Dates Table