Name Day on September 22, 2026: Who Celebrates Their Name Day and the Meanings of Names
On September 22, 2026, men and women with various names celebrate their name days. On this day, you can congratulate Veniamin, Makar, Mykola, Oleksandr, Petro, Yakym, Oleksiy, Opanas, Vasyl, Hryhoriy, Dmytro, Zakhar, Yosyp, Mykyta, Serhiy, Khariton, as well as Paraska and Anna. We’ll explain what each name means and how to congratulate those celebrating their name day.
September 22 is a great occasion to remember the people celebrating their name days today. Among them are names familiar to Ukrainians, as well as less common ones that aren’t heard as often these days.
If someone in your family or among your friends is celebrating their name day, you don’t have to wait for a special occasion to make them happy. A warm message, a phone call, or a small gift are simple ways to show you care.
Male Names on September 22
Several men’s names celebrate their name days on this day. Among them are Benjamin, Makar, Mykola, Oleksandr, and Petro. In more comprehensive calendars, you’ll also find Yakym, Oleksiy, Opanas, Vasyl, Hryhoriy, Dmytro, Zakhar, Yosyp, Mykyta, Serhiy, and Khariton.
Benjamin is a name of ancient Jewish origin. Its traditional meaning is “son of the right hand” or “son of my right hand.” It is a biblical name that is much less common today than Alexander or Nicholas.
Makar is a name of ancient Greek origin. It means “happy” or “blessed.” The name is short, melodious, and has been attracting parents’ attention again in recent years.
Mykola is a Greek name meaning “conqueror of nations” or “conqueror of the people.” It is a traditional Ukrainian name with many diminutive forms—Mykolka, Mykolayko, and Kolya.
Oleksandr is a name of Greek origin meaning “defender of the people.” It remains one of the most common male names in Ukraine. On his name day, you can wish Oleksandr strength, health, and confidence in his decisions.
Petro — comes from an ancient Greek word meaning “stone” or “rock.” The name is traditionally associated with strength of character, reliability, and steadfastness.
Yakim — a form of the ancient Hebrew name Yehoyakim. Its meaning is rendered as “God will establish” or “God will confirm.” Since this isn’t the most common name today, a greeting for Yakim can be especially meaningful.
Oleksiy is an ancient Greek name meaning “defender” or “protector.” The name is associated with caring for others and a willingness to come to their aid.
Opanas is the Ukrainian form of the ancient Greek name Athanasius. It means “immortal.” It is a rare name today, but one with a long history.
Vasyl is a name of Greek origin meaning “royal” or “regal.” It is well known in Ukrainian tradition and has many common forms, including Vasylko.
Grigory is an ancient Greek name meaning “vigilant” or “one who does not sleep.” It is associated with attentiveness and a readiness to keep an eye on what is happening around him.
Dmytro is a name of ancient Greek origin. It is associated with the goddess Demeter and is traditionally interpreted as “dedicated to Demeter.” In Ukraine, it is one of the most familiar male names.
Zakhary is an ancient Hebrew name meaning “God has remembered.” The name is short, distinctive, and is commonly found among children and young people today.
Yosyp is a name of ancient Hebrew origin. Its meaning is associated with the phrases “God will add” or “God will multiply.” It is a biblical name with a very long history.
Mykita is a name of Greek origin meaning “victor.” It has a short and energetic sound and has long been used in Ukraine.
Serhiy is a name of Latin origin. Its meaning is often rendered as “tall,” “respected,” or “servant.” It is one of the most common male names, well known to several generations of Ukrainians.
Khariton is a name of Greek origin, associated with the word “charis”—“grace,” “beauty,” or “charm.” It is a rare name that is much less common today than traditional names like Petro or Mykola.
Girls’ Names for September 22
There are fewer female names for this date, but among them are some beautiful and not-too-common options. In particular, the calendars list Paraskeva and Anna for September 22.
Paraska is the Ukrainian form of the name Paraskevi, which originates from the Greek language. Its meaning is associated with “Friday” and preparations for the holiday. The name has a very long history in Ukrainian culture.
Anna is an ancient Hebrew name meaning “mercy,” “grace,” and “kindness.” It is one of the most common female names in Ukraine and around the world. Anna is often called Anya, Annusya, or Hannusya.
What Is a Name Day?
A name day, or “imeniny,” is the day when people commemorate the saint whose name a person bears. In Christian tradition, the saint is considered the heavenly patron of the person celebrating their name day. For the person themselves, it can be another pleasant occasion to get together with family and friends. It’s not necessary to throw a big party. Sometimes it’s enough just to spend an evening together, chat, or have a cup of coffee.
Those who follow religious traditions may choose to pray on this day, visit a church, or give thanks for their lives and loved ones. For others, a name day can simply be a warm family occasion.
How to Celebrate a Name Day
There are no specific rules for celebrating a name day. It all depends on the person and their preferences. You can invite loved ones over for dinner, go to a café together, host a small gathering at home, or simply accept well-wishes from friends. If you’d like to give a gift, something small but personal is ideal—flowers, a book, sweets, or an item the person has long dreamed of.
For someone who follows church traditions, Name Day can be an occasion to visit a church and offer a prayer to their heavenly patron.
How to Congratulate Someone on Their Name Day
A Name Day greeting doesn’t have to be formal. It’s better to say a few simple and sincere words. You can wish them health, love, peace, happiness, prosperity, and people who will always support them. It’s also appropriate to wish that their guardian angel will protect them from trouble and help them with important matters. For example: “Happy Name Day! May your heavenly guardian always be by your side, watching over you and helping you overcome all difficulties. I wish you health, love, peace, joy, and the fulfillment of your deepest desires.”
Another option: “Happy Name Day! May your life be filled with more bright moments, kind people, and pleasant events. I wish you health, happiness, love, and the strength to make all your dreams come true. May your guardian angel always watch over you.” And for a loved one, it’s best to add something from the heart. You can mention their dream, an important event, or simply explain why you value them. Such a greeting will sound much warmer than a pre-written message from a card.
