Annual observance

Checkers Day

September 23 Games & Fun Updated 2025-12-18

This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.

Overview

Checkers Day, observed annually on September 23rd, is an unofficial holiday dedicated to celebrating the classic strategy board game of checkers. It encourages people of all ages to engage in a friendly game, appreciate the game's rich history, and enjoy the mental exercise it provides, often serving as a nostalgic reminder of simpler times and face-to-face interaction.

Observed each year on September 23, Checkers Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: Checkers Day, celebrated on September 23, honors the enduring legacy of a classic strategy game that fosters critical thinking and interpersonal connections. This day invites families and friends to engage in a timeless pastime that not only provides entertainment but also serves as a reminder of the importance of shared experiences and mental agility.

Origin and story

Checkers, also known as draughts, is one of the oldest known board games, with archaeological evidence suggesting precursors date back to ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt.

In 2007, the computer program Chinook, developed by Jonathan Schaeffer, officially 'solved' the game of checkers, proving that with perfect play from both sides, the game will always result in a draw.

Quick facts

  • DateSeptember 23
  • TypeGames & Fun
  • Great forGame nights, Families, Puzzle fans

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Host a quick game round—board game, puzzle, or trivia tied to the theme.
  • Teach someone a new game mechanic or strategy today.
  • Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the games & fun vibe and make it a mini tradition.
  • Post a story with #checkers-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.
  • Checkers Day lands on September 23 — host a quick nod with Game nights, Families and snap a photo.

Fun facts

  • Checkers, also known as draughts, is one of the oldest known board games, with archaeological evidence suggesting precursors date back to ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt.
  • In 2007, the computer program Chinook, developed by Jonathan Schaeffer, officially 'solved' the game of checkers, proving that with perfect play from both sides, the game will always result in a draw.
  • The most common variation in the United States and Canada is 'American Checkers' or 'English Draughts,' which is played on an 8x8 board with 12 pieces per player.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


Continue to

FAQ

When is Checkers Day?
It is observed on September 23 each year.
What is Checkers Day?
Checkers Day, observed annually on September 23rd, is an unofficial holiday dedicated to celebrating the classic strategy board game of checkers. It encourages people of all ages to engage in a friendly game, appreciate the game's rich history, and enjoy the mental exercise it provides, often serving as a nostalgic reminder of simpler times and face-to-face interaction.
How do people celebrate Checkers Day?
Host a quick game round—board game, puzzle, or trivia tied to the theme.

Get the app

Thousands of obscure holidays, daily widgets, reminders, and fun facts—free on iOS and Android.

Recently viewed holidays