National Walter Day is celebrated every year on March 2. It is a day to honor all the people who were or are called Walter. The name Walter is usually perceived as a traditional name with martial connotations that reflect traits such as strength, firmness, discipline, and decorum, while also emanating sweetness and intelligence. It is a masculine name and has several variations across cultures and regions, particularly in Europe. The classic vibe this name carries makes it a well-loved name even today, despite waning popularity over the decades.
History of National Walter Day
Walter is a masculine name of Germanic origin. This name is associated with sensibility and dignity because of the many Walters who modeled such behavior throughout the centuries. This name is an old-fashioned one but has a lot of significance and fascinating history.
Mainly used in English, Swedish, and German-speaking communities, the name Walter is made up of two Germanic words, ‘wald’ meaning ‘rule’ and ‘hari’ meaning ‘army,’ and it translates to “commander or ruler of the army.” The name exudes vigor, conviction, and charm, even when shortened to common iterations such as Walt or Wally. Although this name is admired given its classical and robust appeal, it is not as prevalent today as it was a few decades back. This name came to be associated with nobility in the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly due to the persona and fame of Sir Walter Raleigh, the renowned English explorer, and Sir Walter Scott, the famous author of books like “Ivanhoe” and “Robroy.”
In the United States, the name Walter gained some traction between the 1870s and the 1940s, after a dip. According to the U.S. Social Security Administration, the name was at its peak popularity in the year 1914, when it was the tenth most preferred name. By 2008, it had dipped to rank 393, but enjoyed a revival in the coming decade and rose to rank 274 in 2020. The name evokes the golden periods of the late 19th century to early 20th century when it was linked to famous social figures and characters such as writer Walt Whitman, and banker Walter Rothschild. Other famous Walters include Walter Cronkite, Walt Disney, and the fictional character Walter White; all have significantly impacted pop culture.
National Walter Day timeline
Sir Raleigh and a few other people from the empire establish a British colony in North America and name it Virginia in honor of the British queen.
The Scottish author and historian, Sir Scott, publishes his most famous work, “Ivanhoe.”
Walt Disney’s iconic cartoon character Mickey Mouse makes its debut in an animated short film named “Steamboat Willie.”
The American superhit crime drama “Breaking Bad” with the iconic lead character, Walter White, makes its television debut.
National Walter Day FAQs
Is Walter a popular name?
Between 1880 and 1940, Walter featured consistently in the top 25 most popular names in America. As of 2020, Walter is the 274th most popular name in America, 295th in England, and 43rd in Denmark. While the popularity of the name has dipped over the past few decades, it remains a good pick for parents looking for an old-fashioned and classic name for their children.
What is the female equivalent of Walter?
This name is predominantly masculine; however, it has several female equivalents, that vary by the area and culture. The variations, such as the Valda, Waltrud, and Wallis do exist but are not very common. However, Wally has been used as its feminine version, mostly as a nickname.
What is Walter called in other languages?
The name Walter is widely used in many countries with multiple iterations. Variations include Wouter (German), Valter (Croatian), Gauthier (French), and Gwallter (Welsh).
National Walter Day Activities
Socialize with all the Walters
Reach out and spend time with all the people named Walter in your life. Give them a call or send a message to show that you appreciate and admire them. Socialize with them and enjoy a night out!
Read a good book
Walt Whitman’s “Leaves of Grass” is considered to be one of the most perennially acclaimed collections of poetry. This National Walter Day, read his enchanting poetry, which reflects his thoughts and opinions on nature and life.
Watch a Walter movie
Watch a movie made by or starring a famous Walter. You can go for the Walt Disney movies. From Mickey Mouse to Snow White, and from Aladdin to Donald Duck, almost all the Disney characters have become iconic in pop culture.
5 Fun Facts About Walters
A top choice for pets
Walter is also a widely used pet name, as it was included in the top 1,200 pet names in 2021.
Raleigh’s souvenirs
Following his return from a failed mission to Guiana, Sir Raleigh introduced tobacco and potatoes to England and Ireland.
Rothschild’s unusual carriages
The British aristocrat Rothschild was fond of taking rides on his giant tortoise named Rotumah, and also owned a zebra-driven carriage.
Walter in Hollywood
The full name of actor Bruce Willis is Walter Bruce Willis.
The most trusted news anchor
American broadcaster, Walter Cronkite, considered the most trusted news anchor in the U.S., broke the news of the assassinations of John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King, and John Lennon.
Why We Love National Walter Day
It’s a great name to have
Walter is a great name to have as it radiates sensibility, toughness, and elegance. National Walter Day celebrates this name that can fill hearts with confidence. You are always safe with a Walter!
It celebrates all the Walters
National Walter Day is a celebration of all the Walters who have influenced ideas and won hearts around the world. Their achievements are some of the world’s most notable ones, and we, as a world, are better for that.
It appreciates the Walters in your life
It is a day that celebrates the Walters in your life. Treat them well and appreciate what they do, what they go through, and who they are. This day is a good step towards understanding the world around us.
National Walter Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 2 | Sunday |
| 2026 | March 2 | Monday |
| 2027 | March 2 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | March 2 | Thursday |
| 2029 | March 2 | Friday |
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