July 20th marks International Chess Day, a global observance commemorating the 1924 founding of FIDE, the international chess federation. Following the significant milestone of FIDE`s centennial in 2024, which celebrated a century of history and set sights firmly on the future, the chess world prepares for International Chess Day 2025 under the poignant theme, `Every Move Counts`.
This theme isn`t just about navigating the 64 squares; it`s a profound reminder that in both the game and in life, each decision, each action, shapes the outcome. It aligns perfectly with FIDE`s ongoing `Year of Social Chess` initiative, which champions the game as a force for inclusion, education, empowerment, and mental well-being.
Building on the momentum from the 2024 celebrations, which saw a Guinness World Record set for the most chess games played in 24 hours with over 7.28 million games globally, 2025 aims to amplify the message of chess`s unifying and transformative power. The focus remains firmly on using chess as a tool to connect diverse communities and foster positive change across the globe.
Unleash Your Creativity: The Creative Chess Challenge
International Chess Day 2025 invites chess enthusiasts to think outside the box – or perhaps, outside the living room. The `Creative Chess` initiative challenges players to set up a game in the most imaginative or symbolic locations they can envision. From mountain peaks to local landmarks, the goal is to showcase the boundless spirit and reach of chess in visually striking ways.
Participants are encouraged to capture these unconventional chess moments through photos or videos and share them widely using the hashtag #InternationalChessDay. This global showcase aims to demonstrate just how vibrant, fun, and limitless chess can be when viewed through a creative lens.
Join the Global Arena: The Largest Social Chess Day Tournament
For those who prefer digital battles, a massive 24-hour online blitz tournament is set to take place, co-hosted by FIDE and Lichess.org. Scheduled from 00:00 CEST on July 20th to 00:00 CEST on July 21st, this event welcomes players of all skill levels, across all time zones, with a time control of 5 minutes plus a 3-second increment per move.
Players can join at any time and participate in as many games as they wish. Beyond the competitive aspect, the tournament serves as a vast, inclusive online gathering. All participants will be entered into random prize draws, offering chances to win items like FIDE merchandise, exclusive chess books, or unique experiences such as attending major chess events or participating in online sessions with top Grandmasters.
Chess in the Community: Inclusive Over-the-Board Events
National federations, clubs, and local organizers worldwide are strongly encouraged to host inclusive over-the-board events on International Chess Day. The core aim is to bring the game to diverse communities, showcasing its ability to transcend barriers.
Organizing events for groups such as seniors, refugees, individuals with disabilities, or youth in underserved areas highlights how chess can build connections and foster mutual understanding across different backgrounds. Sharing the stories and impact of these local initiatives contributes significantly to the global celebration of chess as a social force.
Share the Gift: Teach Someone to Play
One of the simplest, yet perhaps most profound, ways to participate in International Chess Day is to introduce someone new to the game. Teaching a friend, family member, colleague, or neighbour the basic moves and rules of chess can ignite a passion that lasts a lifetime.
It`s a direct, personal way to share the strategic depth, intellectual challenge, and sheer joy that the game offers, contributing to the expansion of the global chess community one new player at a time.
Let`s Make Every Move Count
Whether you choose to participate in a creative photo challenge, compete in the online tournament, organize a community gathering, or simply teach someone their first move, your involvement on International Chess Day 2025 matters. Every move you make to celebrate and share chess contributes to its vibrant global community and reinforces the game`s enduring power to educate, connect, and inspire. Let`s come together this July 20th and make every move count.
