Willie Nelson Turns 92—Twice! Here’s Why the Texas Legend Celebrates Two Birthdays

Willie Nelson, the Texas born 'Red-Headed Stranger' himself, just turned 92—but if you’re confused about whether to send your birthday wishes on April 29 or April 30, you’re not alone. The country music icon has a unique tradition: he celebrates both days as his birthday!

​Willie Was Born Late at Night

Born in Abbott, Texas, in 1933, Willie came into the world just before midnight on April 29. However, due to the late hour and the practices of the time, his birth wasn't officially recorded until the next day, April 30. As Willie explained:

"I was born before midnight on the 29th, but it didn't get registered in the county courthouse until the next day, the 30th. So it went out officially as the 30th. I just do both days."

Adding to the story, it was his cousin Mildred, who was 13 at the time, that reassured Willie he had been born on the 29th. She also named him, choosing "Hugh" as his middle name in honor of her recently deceased brother. ​

So, in true Willie fashion, he decided to embrace both dates. After all, two parties are better than one, right?

You Can Celebrate with Him!​

This year, fans across Texas and beyond have double the reason to celebrate the outlaw country pioneer. Willie continues to be a prolific artist, recently releasing his 154th studio album, "Oh What a Beautiful World." He's also set to perform at the Outlaw Music Festival in The Woodlands on July 6, sharing the stage with Bob Dylan, The Avett Brothers, and more!

So whether you raised a toast yesterday or plan to do so today, here's to Willie Nelson—Texas treasure, musical legend, and the only guy we know who gets to have his birthday cake and eat it twice!