International Chess Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about International Chess Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. International Chess Day is celebrated on July 20th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of International Chess Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as amusing facts you should know about International Chess Day.

📅 What day is International Chess Day 2024?

In 2024, International Chess Day is on Thursday, July 20th. It is the 3rd Thursday in July; in 2024, it is Saturday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all the fun details and facts about July 20, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Every year on July 20th, chess enthusiasts worldwide come together to celebrate International Chess Day. This special day was inspired by a concept from UNESCO and has been observed for over 50 years. It is a time for chess lovers to honor and enjoy the game that they hold dear.

📜 International Chess Day History

Chess is believed to have originated from an Indian battle game called “Chaturanga,” which had similar characteristics to modern chess. The game spread to different regions, including Persia, the Byzantine Empire, and the Arabian Empire, before making its way to Europe. The influence of Islam, which prohibits the creation of sculptures of humans or animals, is said to be the reason why chess pieces lack recognizable traits. In the 10th century, chess was introduced to Sicily, Spain, North Africa, Kievan Rus, Iceland, and England. The game’s popularity grew due to its associations with power, wisdom, and riches. Over time, chess evolved and underwent further development, with the introduction of timing systems, play regulations, and renowned players. International Chess Day is celebrated on July 20 to commemorate the founding of the International Chess Federation and is widely observed by chess enthusiasts around the world.

✅ International Chess Day Facts

🔖 Chess players make up a LARGE community
Based on a survey conducted in 2012, it was found that more than 605 million individuals globally engage in playing chess on a regular basis.

🔖 The oldest surviving complete chess set
The wizarding chess pieces featured in “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” were inspired by a real-life medieval set dating back to the 12th century. These pieces were found on the Isle of Lewis in northern Scotland.

🔖 Chess is banned in Russian Antarctic stations
In 1959, a dispute escalated to the point where one player physically attacked another using an ice ax.

👍 Why Is International Chess Day Important

This game, or certain variations of it, has been played since ancient times. It blends athletics, strategy, scientific thinking, and artistic components to create one of our world’s most intelligent activities.

People all across the world have played and continue to play chess. This game is suitable for people of various ages, genders, social levels, and physical abilities. Chess, according to researchers, can even contribute to a climate of tolerance and understanding across nations and cultures.

Strategy games are wonderful for our brain cells. Chess is recommended by psychologists to boost memory function and by physicians to combat Alzheimer’s disease. Chess’s positive effects on young children—it has been shown to increase grades and promote social behaviors, among other things—have led to its inclusion in school curricula in a variety of countries.

🙂 How To Observe International Chess Day

⚡ Have a chess-themed movie night

⚡ Join a chess club
Chess clubs can be found in various places such as high schools, middle schools, neighborhood community centers, and even online communities. They also thrive within sporting organizations. If you’re interested in chess, you can search for a chess club in your area or find a reputable one on the internet. Joining a chess club allows you to play or learn the game with different individuals, while also acquiring new strategies and moves.

⚡ Play human chess
Gather your loved ones for a chess-themed movie night. To begin, you might choose from “Searching for Bobby Fischer” (1993), “Queen of Katwe” (2016), or the latest Netflix series, “The Queen’s Gambit.”

📅 When is International Chess Day?

Explore all 🔗 July holidays, including 🔗 Special Interest and other 🔗 Activities holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about International Chess Day. So be sure to check back soon.