February
National Van Day
National Van Day is celebrated annually on February 11, commemorating one of the world’s most diverse and widespread names. The name Van, often recognized as a common suffix in Dutch surnames, is also a standalone name that derives from names like Ivan and Evan. The unique history and global use of Van make this day significant.
History of National Van Day
Van is a name with wide-reaching influence, appearing in many languages like German and Afrikaans, and often seen in Dutch surnames. This name has deep historical roots, possibly dating back to the 15th century. Iconic figures such as Vincent Van Gogh, a pivotal 19th-century Dutch painter, and Anna Maria Van Schurman, a 17th-century Dutch polymath, bear this name. Additionally, Dutch-American musician Eddie Van Halen highlights the name’s reach. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Van gained traction as an independent name, stemming from shortened forms of names like Ivan, Evan, and Vance. While it’s often associated with Dutch origins, it is widely recognized globally thanks to figures like Irish musician Van Morrison and American philosopher Willard Van Orman Quine.
National Van Day Timeline
- 15th Century: The surname Van is recorded in Dutch tradition.
- 19th Century: Painter Vincent Van Gogh becomes renowned.
- 1960s: Musician Van Morrison emerges with Van as a standalone surname.
- 1980s: The rock band Van Halen gains fame, highlighting its Dutch roots.
What does van mean in German?
In German, “van” can indicate noble lineage or simply signify “of” or “from.”
When was Van first used as an independent surname?
The name began to be used independently in the early 20th century, especially in the U.S.
How popular is the name Van?
According to the Social Security Administration, Van ranked as the 870th most popular boy’s name in 2020.
Activities for National Van Day
- Explore Dutch History: Dive into the rich and diverse history of the Netherlands, the origin of this iconic name.
- Celebrate with a Friend: Honor this day by acknowledging those with the name Van or Dutch heritage.
- Embrace Dutch Culture: Engage in Dutch traditions and celebrations to honor this renowned name.
Five Fascinating Facts about Van
- Popularity: Van is often used as a middle name, making it the 265th most common surname in the U.S.
- Shortest Middle Name: At just three letters, Van is one of the shortest names.
- Rise and Fall: Van was popular in the 1960s in the U.S. and saw a revival in the early 2010s.
- Meaning: Originally meaning “of the family of” in Dutch, Van is now a popular short form of Ivan or Evan.
- In the Netherlands: There it is used strictly as a middle name, not as an independent surname.
Why We Love National Van Day
- Iconic Dutch Name: Van is a symbol of Dutch heritage and its contributions to global culture.
- A Popular Name: As a middle name, Van ties back to Germanic and Dutch naming traditions and gained independence globally.
- Short and Sweet: Easy to remember, the name Van is simple and charming and also recalls one of the coolest vehicles, a van—a unique name with a storied history.
For more engaging content on names and cultural celebrations, explore https://findnomore.net.]
What is the date of National Van Day every year?
| Year of Event | Day | Day of the week | Take place |
| National Van Day 2024 | Day 11 Month 2 Year 2024 | Sunday | 0 days |
| National Van Day 2025 | Day 11 Month 2 Year 2025 | Tuesday | 0 days |
| National Van Day 2026 | Day 11 Month 2 Year 2026 | Wednesday | 354 days |
| National Van Day 2027 | Day 11 Month 2 Year 2027 | Thursday | 719 days |
| National Van Day 2028 | Day 11 Month 2 Year 2028 | Friday | 1084 days |
| National Van Day 2029 | Day 11 Month 2 Year 2029 | Sunday | 1450 days |
| National Van Day 2030 | Day 11 Month 2 Year 2030 | Monday | 1815 days |
| National Van Day 2031 | Day 11 Month 2 Year 2031 | Tuesday | 2180 days |
