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International Chess Day is observed every July 20. Fans of the classic strategy game gather to celebrate, play and discuss one of the most complex board games on the planet. 

International Chess Day was first observed in 1966. The World Chess Federation used July 20 as the anniversary date of the founding of the organization in 1924.

Chess can be celebrated in as many ways as there are moves on the board. More creative ideas include making a chess set at home, having a family chess tournament and playing chess online.

Chess is a worldwide phenomenon that knows no language barriers. Anyone can learn how to play with basic moves, but strategy takes years to master. The U.S. Chess Federation states chess probably originated as the war game "Chatarung" in India around 600 C.E. Around 400 years later, chess spread to Europe thanks to Persian traders. When the rules changed in the 15th century to make the queen the strongest piece, suddenly more people liked to play the strategy game. Its popularity has increased ever since with millions of players worldwide.