Celebrate International Chess Day on 20th July

Chess lovers, mark your calendars for the 20th of July and get ready to celebrate International Chess Day. A day to honour one of the oldest and most strategic games ever created. Whether you are a seasoned competitor who has many tournament wins under your belt or a casual player who loves playing chess with your family and friends, this day is for everyone. It is all about recognising the power of chess to unite minds, sharpen focus, and create lasting connections.

The Legacy of International Chess Day

International Chess Day was first celebrated in 1966 after a proposal by UNESCO. It marks the founding of the FIDE (International Chess Federation) on 20th July 1924. However, it wasn’t until 2019 that the United Nations recognised International Chess Day. 178 countries recognise and celebrate this day, proving how much chess is loved all around the world.

Chess and British Culture - More Than Just a Game

Chess is well integrated into British history and culture. You can find records of inter-county competitions from as early as 1908 and the modern boom of chess, driven by TV shows like The Queen’s Gambit, has woven this game in the very fabric of British culture. In recent years, some department stores have seen a dramatic rise in interest in chess, with chessboard sales going up by 260% for one of the top stores in the UK. It is estimated that between 6 to 9 million Brits are now playing chess regularly, which goes on to show the game’s significance for the country.

Chess is not just popular among adults; there are over 3000 chess programs in schools helping children improve their focus and problem-solving skills by participating in this game. Not to mention, there are many public chess-focused events, such as ChessFest, that bring people of all ages together, turning chess into a festival for the communities.

Benefits of Playing Chess Regularly

Chess has benefits that extend far beyond the board. We all know that chess challenges you to push your cognitive limits, and it is known to enhance memory, improve problem-solving abilities and boost creativity. Playing this board game regularly develops strategic thinking, and we have already covered how it improves focusing abilities. In short, chess can help you build skills that are helpful in every area of life, be it professional or social.

Apart from building cognitive abilities, chess also helps build sportsmanship. It can reduce anxiety, build confidence, and help develop empathy. Research suggests that playing chess can lower the risk of dementia, making it a lifelong mental health exercise.

Socially, chess brings people from all walks of life together and promotes a sense of belonging. You can build lasting and meaningful friendships that stem from a mutual passion for chess. Whether you play chess in a chess club or online, the game offers many opportunities to socialise, meet like-minded people, and grow.

How to Create a Chess Sanctuary at Home?

While you are celebrating International Chess Day, why not create a dedicated chess corner at home on this occasion? A peaceful chess space can be a reminder to play every day and hone your skills. Not to mention, you can encourage your family and friends to get into this amazing sport.

It is no surprise that to set up a chess corner, the most important thing you need is a chess set. If you are planning to really make your chess space a true sanctuary, then you need a chess set that is beautifully crafted yet functional and durable. Gemstone Gifts offers stunning fossil marble and onyx chess sets that merge natural artistry with a strong and lasting design. The onyx and white marble chess set is currently on sale, and it is one of the most standout chess sets you can buy in the UK. The reason why we recommend these chess sets is that they are handcrafted and they serve two functions at once. They are amazing to play on, and they double as display pieces when not in use. Or if you know someone who likes chess, then a marble chess set makes the perfect gift on International Chess Day.

So not only can you add elegance to your chess corner with a handmade chess set, but it is also going to become a conversation starter for your home. If you were looking for a way to celebrate International Chess Day, then there is no better way to do it than gifting yourself or your loved ones a premium chess set

Final Thoughts

Chess is much more than a pastime, and International Chess Day is a reminder of this fact. On 20th July, take the opportunity to reconnect with this timeless game and appreciate the unique community it creates. If you are looking for the best chess sets, then don’t forget to give Gemstone Gifts a visit.