National Harold Day is annually observed on July 29. It is a day to honour all historical figures, contemporary culture icons, and people with the name Harold that you may know. From the American performer and songwriter Harold Belafonte to the former football player Harold Carmichael, we list all of the world’s most famous Harolds. However, this day is not only about the icons; if your name is Harold, it is also your day! It’s time to delve deeply into the name’s origin, meaning, cultural and etymological definition, and various variations.
The background of National Harold Day
There are a variety of origin stories for the name Harold, depending on which side of the globe you’re on. In Old English, it was derived from the name ‘Hereward’ which was derived from the words ‘here’ meaning ‘army’ and ‘ward’ meaning ‘power.’ When Scandinavian settlers arrived in England during ancient Nordic times, the name ‘Harald’ or ‘war chief’ grew in popularity. Haraldr was also the given name of three Danish monarchs and five Norwegian kings, including Harold II, who was defeated and killed at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. After the Norman Conquest, the name lost favour as individuals attempted to distance themselves from the defeat.
In the nineteenth century, the name ‘Harold’ reemerged from centuries of obscurity. Among the most notable Harolds were, to name a few, the British linguist Harold Walter Bailey, the British photographer Harold Baker, the pianist Harold Craxton, and the American chemist Harold Urey.
In the 20th century, notable individuals with the name Harold included the Australian prime minister Harold Holt, the Oscar-nominated actor Hal Holbrook (born Harold Holbrook), the American jazz pianist Harold Danko, and the German musician Harold Faltermeyer.
When the 1971 comedy-drama “Harold and Maude” was published, however, the name Harold became commercialised. It was nominated for multiple honours, including Best Actor and Best Actress at the 1972 Golden Globes, and starred Ruth Gordon and Brad Curt.
In the 1980s, the name Harold was once again deemed outmoded and declined in popularity. In the 1990s, however, more cheerful variations such as ‘Harry’ and ‘Hal’ emerged. A new generation of ‘Harry’ babies was born in the early 2000s, following the publication of the Harry Potter franchise.
National Roanoke Community Beautification Day 2023: Date, History, Facts, Activities
National Milk Chocolate Day 2023: Date, History, Activities
National Milk Chocolate Day 2023: Date, History, Activities
NATIONAL HAROLD DAY ACTIVITIES
Send a card to Harold.
If you have a friend or relative named Harold, sending them a card is the ideal method to celebrate National Harold Day. Today, let them know you are thinking of them and celebrate their existence.
Observe “Harold and Maude”
“Harold and Maude” is the ideal film to watch on National Harold Day if you’re a devotee of comedy-drama films. Grab a container of popcorn and have a good time!
Consume the entire “Harry Potter” series.
National Harold Day is the ideal occasion to marathon the “Harry Potter” series. It is a series that can be viewed for a full day. There is no more enjoyable way to spend the day than by visiting Hogwarts!
5 Interesting Facts Regarding the Name Harold
Harold’s Spanish equivalent is ‘Haroldo.’
Chariovalda or “Hariwald” was a Roman Empire chieftain.
Directors Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach have named their first child Harold.
In Ireland, Harold is occasionally referred to as “Harrell” or “Hurrell.”
Harry Styles is the most prominent ’90s child with a name derived from “Harold.”
NATIONAL HAROLD DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | July 29 | Saturday |
| 2024 | July 29 | Monday |
| 2025 | July 29 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | July 29 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | July 29 | Thursday |
