Anniversary Calculator
Calculate how long it's been since an important event. Watch the counter tick in real-time and discover milestone dates including traditional anniversary names.
Time Elapsed
Years
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Months
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Days
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Total Days
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Upcoming Milestones
Enter an event date to see upcoming milestones.
How to Use the Anniversary Calculator
- Enter the event date — select the date of your wedding, first date, job start, or any important event.
- Add an event name (optional) — personalize the display with a custom label.
- Watch the live counter — see the exact time elapsed down to the second, updating in real-time.
- Check milestones — view upcoming milestone dates like 100 days, 1000 days, and round year anniversaries.
- See traditional names — for relationship anniversaries, discover the traditional gift name (paper, silver, gold, etc.).
Traditional Anniversary Names
Each wedding anniversary year has a traditional name and associated gift. These traditions date back centuries and symbolize the strengthening of the marriage bond over time.
| Year | Traditional Name | Modern Gift |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Paper | Clocks |
| 2 | Cotton | China |
| 3 | Leather | Crystal/Glass |
| 4 | Fruit/Flowers | Appliances |
| 5 | Wood | Silverware |
| 10 | Tin/Aluminum | Diamond Jewelry |
| 15 | Crystal | Watches |
| 20 | China | Platinum |
| 25 | Silver | Silver |
| 30 | Pearl | Diamond |
| 40 | Ruby | Ruby |
| 50 | Gold | Gold |
| 60 | Diamond | Diamond |
| 75 | Diamond & Gold | Diamond & Gold |
Notable Day Milestones
Beyond yearly anniversaries, certain day counts hold special significance:
- 100 days — Often celebrated in East Asian cultures as a significant early milestone for relationships and babies.
- 365 days — One full year around the sun together.
- 500 days — Roughly 16-17 months, a popular milestone for couples.
- 1,000 days — Nearly three years, representing sustained commitment.
- 5,000 days — Approximately 13.7 years, a major long-term milestone.
- 10,000 days — Over 27 years, a lifetime achievement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the live counter?
The live counter updates every second and is accurate to within one second. It accounts for time zones based on your browser's local time.
Can I use this for future events?
This calculator is designed for past events (anniversaries). For future event countdowns, try our Countdown Timer tool instead.
Why do the traditional anniversary names matter?
Traditional anniversary names and gifts provide meaningful symbolism and gift-giving inspiration. The materials progress from delicate (paper) to enduring (diamond), representing the strengthening of the relationship over time.
How are months calculated?
Months are calculated as complete calendar months from the event date. For example, if your event was on March 15, then April 15 would be 1 month, May 15 would be 2 months, etc.
What if I don't know the exact date?
Use the best approximation you have. Even if you only know the month and year, you can use the 1st or 15th of that month as a placeholder. The calculator will still provide meaningful milestone information.
Can I track multiple anniversaries?
You can bookmark this page for each event by changing the event date and name, then saving different bookmarks. Alternatively, write down or screenshot the milestone dates for future reference.