Corporate Baby Name Day

Corporate Baby Name Day is one of the most unusual children’s holidays in the world. It explores the satirical concept of selling the rights to baby names to global corporations. While the idea is hard to take seriously, the holiday continues to spark conversations about consumer culture, branding, and the lengths people might go to for money.

History

The holiday traces back to a 2001 survey that asked parents whether they would sell the naming rights of their child to a corporation for $500,000. Examples like Pepsi and Jeep were offered, and nearly half of the respondents said they would consider the deal. The survey results were widely circulated on August 6, which later became associated with the holiday.

The idea was inspired by a real event: a couple from New York attempted to auction off their baby’s naming rights online, starting at half a million dollars. There were no takers, and the baby ultimately received a traditional name—but the concept left an impression.

How to Take Part

If the idea amuses you, imagine how names like “Pepsi,” “Nike,” or “Microsoft” might sound at a preschool roll call. While it’s obviously not practical, it raises questions about branding, identity, and how deeply corporate culture is embedded in our lives.

Use this tongue-in-cheek holiday to reflect on the influence of capitalism and marketing—even in the most personal parts of life. Whether you laugh, cringe, or philosophize, Corporate Baby Name Day invites you to pause and think.

When is Corporate Baby Name Day in 2025?

Corporate Baby Name Day is observed on August 6 each year.

Observations