National New Jersey Day

Cheerful family enjoying a day at the beach, wearing bright summer outfits, with a famous New Jersey boardwalk in the background.. — National new jersey day illustration

Quick, grab your binoculars and pork roll sandwich, it's National New Jersey Day! Bet you didn't know that was a thing, huh? Don't worry, you're not alone. Our data at WhatNationalDayIsIt.com indicate that it's a relatively new day of celebration. But, as we New Jerseyans would tell you, 'If it's promoted by Bruce Springsteen, then it's something to love.'

When is New Jersey Day?

It's national new jersey day on the 27th July.

What Exactly is National New Jersey Day?

Well, it's a day dedicated to the Garden State, National New Jersey Day falls on the calendar exactly when you'd think - smack dab in the middle of summer (is it odd that it's not close to the Jersey Shore season?). According to our vast data library, 'National New Jersey Day' started making some notable noise on the internet around July 27, 2020. That's right, amid the glory of summer, folks online began giving New Jersey its long-deserved day in the sun.

So, Why July 27?

Well, no specific claims were universally professed. Some speculate it ties back to July 27, 1787, when New Jersey received its statehood. However, the more popular theory is that, in traditional NJ style, people liked the sound of July and simply stuck with it. I mean, who doesn’t love a good mystery?

How to Celebrate?

On National New Jersey Day, it's all about celebrating everything this tiny but mighty state has to offer. From eating pork roll sandwiches, quoting lines from The Sopranos, blasting Bon Jovi while driving down the turnpike, or just simply boasting about how cool it is to be sandwiched between Philadelphia and New York City – there are a million ways to cheer on the Garden State.

Wrap-up

All things considered, National New Jersey Day is a day that celebrates the uniqueness and resilience of the people of New Jersey. Whether you’re a fan of the shore, the music or the attitude, this day is a fun tribute to the Garden State. Inject some Jersey pride into your National New Jersey Day – after all, it does have a personality as large and vibrant as any state in the nation.

History behind the term 'New Jersey'

1664

The Granting of New Jersey

In the year 1664, the land that would become New Jersey was part of the English colony of New Netherland. However, this changed when King Charles II of England granted the territory to his brother, the Duke of York. The Duke then gave a portion of the land to Lord John Berkeley and Sir George Carteret, who became the proprietors of the region.

1674

West Jersey and East Jersey

By 1674, the territory was divided into two distinct provinces: West Jersey and East Jersey. The division was mainly due to differences in land ownership and governance. West Jersey was primarily settled by Quakers and had a more democratic system, while East Jersey saw a larger influx of Scots and English settlers.

1702

Unification as a Royal Colony

In 1702, the two Jerseys were united into a single royal colony, known as the Province of New Jersey. Queen Anne granted a royal charter, effectively combining West and East Jersey under one government. This marked the beginning of New Jersey as a distinct entity with its own administrative structure.

1787

The Birth of the Garden State

In 1787, New Jersey became the third state to ratify the United States Constitution, affirming its status as one of the original thirteen colonies. It was during this time that New Jersey earned its nickname, 'The Garden State,' due to its fertile soil and extensive agriculture industry. The term has stuck throughout history, representing the state's commitment to agriculture and its abundant natural resources.

1928

Official Adoption of 'The Garden State'

It wasn't until 1928 that 'The Garden State' was officially adopted as New Jersey's state slogan. The slogan was chosen through a contest held by the New Jersey State Chamber of Commerce. The winning entry was submitted by Mrs. Jenny Weiss of Rutherford, who received $25 as a prize. Since then, 'The Garden State' has become an integral part of New Jersey's identity and is widely used to promote tourism and highlight the state's natural beauty.

Did you know?

Did you know that despite being the fourth smallest state in the U.S., New Jersey is the most densely populated? That's right, we Jersey folks sure do know how to pack a punch!