National Grey Day

National Grey Day is an American holiday dedicated to the color grey, as well as the word itself, which can be a surname or the name of a town or other place. It is observed annually on May 26.

History

The history of National Grey Day is not well known. The name “Grey” originally referred to the Burnia tribe, who inhabited what is now the border region between Scotland and England. Later, it came to mean a person with grey hair. Perhaps from this comparison, the color we know as grey got its name.

The surname “Grey,” which is common in Scotland, is also quite popular in the United States today. This is due to the large migration of Scots to America, as many fled persecution and poverty to start a new life in a free country. These migration processes began as early as the 18th century. Some researchers also note that people with the surname Grey settled in the United States even before the first settlers.

Interesting Facts

• According to recent censuses, more than 5 million Americans of Scottish descent live in the United States.
• Grey has the status of an English noble family name, as it was borne by members of the upper classes in England.
• “The Picture of Dorian Gray” is a famous novel by Oscar Wilde, whose main character bears that iconic English surname. It gained renewed popularity after its 2009 film adaptation.

How to Celebrate

Research more details about the use of “Grey” as a surname and place name. Do you know anyone with this surname? What do they know about its origins?

Share the holiday on social media. Ask users if they like the color grey. Are there any people with the last name Grey among them?

When is National Grey Day in 2025?

National Grey Day is observed on May 26 each year.

Observations