How New Yorkers Are Naming Rats After Exes This Valentine’s Day

Only in New York. For Valentine’s Day 2026, a popular online trend is back, and it’s a little weird in the best way. You can name a New York City rat after your ex.

Rat Roster Is Back for 2026

The idea is called Rat Roster, and it’s back just in time for Valentine’s Day. The concept is simple. Instead of sending flowers or candy, you can name a rat after someone you’d rather forget.

How Much It Costs

For $15, you can name one of the rats on the Rat Roster basketball team after your ex. The rat becomes part of the team, and yes, it’s all meant to be funny.

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You Get a Certificate

After you name your rat, you’ll receive a personalized certificate with your ex’s name on it. It’s proof that your former flame is now officially part of New York’s Rat Roster. New York City has around 3 million rats, so there are plenty to choose from. That means no shortage of “players” to draft onto the team.

How the Rat Naming Works

First, you fill out a form online. Then, you pick which rat you want by jersey number. The best ex stories are chosen to name the starting players. Once selected, you get your certificate.

A Very New York Valentine’s Gift

If you’re skipping romance this year, this is one very New York way to do it. Naming a rat after your ex might not be sweet, but it’s definitely memorable. Rat Roster is back for 2026, and it’s giving New Yorkers a funny way to turn heartbreak into humor this Valentine’s Day.