Date
Sunday
Oct
12

October 12

National Chess Day

Celebrate National Chess Day by challenging your friends and family to a game - test your skills and show them who's the real chess champion!

Yearly Date
Second Saturday in October
Type
Day

Introduction

It's time to start sharpening your chess skills and get ready for National Chess Day on the second Saturday of October! This day celebrates the fun and challenging game of chess which has been around since before the 15th century. Chess is a great way to exercise your mind, challenge yourself, and even make new friends. Plus, it's a great way to pass the time - whether you're playing against someone else or trying to beat your own personal best. So grab your board and pieces and get ready for an exciting day full of strategy and brainpower!

National Chess Day Timeline

600s
Origins of Chess
Chess, originally known as chaturanga, emerged in Northern India during the 6th century, making it one of the oldest strategy games in existence.
1475
Modern Chess Evolves
The game evolved into its current form in the 15th century in Europe, with standardized rules for piece movement and promotion.
1851
First Chess Tournament
The first international chess tournament was held in London, marking a milestone in the history of competitive chess.
1924
Establishment of FIDE
The World Chess Federation (FIDE) was formed to oversee international competition and established a universal system of rules and rankings.
1976
Inception of National Chess Day
U.S. President Gerald Ford declared the second Saturday in October as National Chess Day to honor the game's educational and cognitive benefits.
1997
IBM's Deep Blue Defeats Champion
IBM's chess computer Deep Blue defeated reigning world champion Garry Kasparov, demonstrating the potential of artificial intelligence in chess.

How to Celebrate National Chess Day

1

Play a game of chess

Gather your friends, family, or neighbors together and enjoy a game of chess. You can even play online if you don't have anyone to play with.

2

Watch a chess tournament

Watching a chess tournament is a great way to learn more about the game and see some of the best players in the world. You can find tournaments all over the world, or you can watch them online.

3

Organize a chess tournament

Organizing a chess tournament is a great way to get your friends and family involved in the game. Make it a friendly competition and have fun!

4

Learn about chess history

To get to know the game better, take some time to learn about the history of chess. Read books, watch documentaries, or look up information online.

5

Join a chess club

Joining a local chess club is an excellent way to sharpen your skills and meet likeminded players. Look online or ask around to find one near you.

Why We Love National Chess Day

A

Chess is a test of strategy

Chess is an exciting and challenging game that encourages players to think critically and plan ahead. The game requires strategic foresight, with players needing to assess the board before making the best move possible in order to outwit and outplay their opponent.

B

Chess exercises the mind

Not only is chess fun and competitive, it's also incredibly good for developing problem solving skills and critical thinking.Studies have found that playing chess can strengthen brain functions such as memory, focus, and creativity - so it's a great way to keep your mind sharp!

C

Chess has a long history

First mentioned in Indian manuscripts over 1200 years ago, chess is one of the oldest games still being played today. Throughout history it has been enjoyed by kings, nobility, intellectuals and philosophers alike – making it one of the most popular games in human history.

National Chess Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Oct 13
Friday
2024
Oct 11
Friday
2025
Oct 10
Friday
2026
Oct 9
Friday
2027
Oct 8
Friday