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Name Day

Name Day for Emil

Everything about the date, name variants, and traditions

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May

Name day for Emil, Emiliya, Ema, Emilian, Emiliyan - Celebrated on May 30th.

Celebrating names:

ЕмилЕмилияЕмаЕмилианЕмилиян
→ View full holiday page→ Other May holidays
July

Name day for Emil, Emiliya, Ema, Emilian, Emiliyan - Celebrated on July 18th.

Celebrating names:

ЕмилЕмилияЕмаЕмилианЕмилиян
→ View full holiday page→ Other July holidays
August

Name day for Emil, Emiliya, Ema, Emilian, Emiliyan - Celebrated on August 8th.

Celebrating names:

ЕмилЕмилияЕмаЕмилианЕмилиян
→ View full holiday page→ Other August holidays

About the name Emil

Etymology & meaning

Emil comes from the Latin family name Aemilius, linked to aemulus — "rival, striving". The feminine Emilia and Ema, plus the extended Emilian, share the root and the feast.

History & patron saint

The patron is Saint Emilian the Confessor — a 9th-century bishop who suffered for the veneration of icons; his memory opens the feast to the whole Emil family of names. Bulgarian practice celebrates Emil and Emilia in late May, with repeat dates in July and August.

Traditions & customs

The feast follows the common pattern — guests, treats at work and a family dinner. Households with an Emil and an Emilia (or Ema) celebrate jointly, often picking whichever of the three dates suits best.

Popularity & notable bearers

Emil has been a steady Bulgarian preference since the mid-20th century, and Ema has ranked among the most frequent newborn girls' names in recent years.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the name day for Emil?

Emil is celebrated on 30 May and 18 July and 8 August.

Which names celebrate on 30 May?

On 30 May, name day is celebrated by those named Emil and related Bulgarian name variants (5 names in total).

How is the name day celebrated in Bulgaria?

Name day celebrants traditionally welcome guests at home, receive gifts and congratulations. It is a cherished family occasion throughout Bulgaria.

What does the name Emil mean?

Emil comes from the Latin family name Aemilius, linked to aemulus — "rival, striving". The feminine Emilia and Ema, plus the extended Emilian, share the root and the feast.

How popular is Emil in Bulgaria?

Emil has been a steady Bulgarian preference since the mid-20th century, and Ema has ranked among the most frequent newborn girls' names in recent years.

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