International Chess Day is celebrated on July 20 every year to honour one of the smartest mind game ever created. Since 1966, UNESCO has recognised this day to promote this ancient game as a tool for instilling logical thinking, education, and cultural exchange.

The idea of celebrating International Chess Day originated from the efforts of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), the governing body of chess worldwide. In 1966, FIDE proposed July 20th as International Chess Day to commemorate the founding of FIDE in Paris in 1924. This proposal was officially adopted during the 67th FIDE Congress in 1969.

Coincedentally, in 2024, the International Chess Federation (FIDE) is celebrating its centenary anniversary. As part of the celebrations throughout the year, FIDE is planning numerous activities, including chess festivals, exhibitions displaying historical archives, documents and chess memorabilia, tournaments organised all around the world, and many others. The game is just beginning!

At present time, chess is played by millions of people globally, transcending borders, cultures, and languages. International Chess Day is observed to celebrate the cultural and social exchange that chess brings to people worldwide.