114 saved#1,990 of 6,224

Games Day

Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled Games Day - compete, laugh, and have an amazing day of play!

Sunday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEDecember 20

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYPop Culture

SUBCATEGORYGaming

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate Games Day on Dec. 20! This holiday has been around since the 1950s and is a day dedicated to having fun and enjoying your favorite games. It's a great way to get together with friends, family, or even strangers, and have some friendly competition. Whether you like board games, card games, video games, or physical activities – there's something for everyone on this day. So don't miss out on the opportunity to make some fun memories while engaging in some good old-fashioned gaming!

TIMELINE

Games Day Timeline

Inception of Games Day

Games Day was first celebrated in the mid-1950s as an informal local holiday encouraging social interaction and fun through games.

Board Game Renaissance

The 1970s saw a surge in the popularity of board games, further amplifying the enjoyment of Games Day for families and friends.

Digital Game Revolution

Video games experienced a massive boom in this decade, adding a new layer to the types of games that would be celebrated on Games Day.

Role-Playing Expansion

Role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons gained mass appeal, adding a new dimension to the kinds of games enjoyed on this day.

Internet Gaming

The proliferation of the internet led to a surge in online gaming – from MMOs to social network games, opening Games Day up to virtual celebration.

Mobile Gaming Surge

With enhanced technologies and the prominence of smartphones, mobile gaming flourished and became a popular platform for enjoying Games Day.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Games Day

Play Board Games

Many of us have fond memories of playing board games as children, so why not give them a try again? Check out your local game store or library for some classic and modern board games to enjoy with family and friends.

COMPETE

Compete in a Video Game Tournament

Gaming can be competitive and exciting. Join an online tournament or find a local gaming event to participate in. You might even win a prize if you're the last one standing.

HOST

Host a Game Night

Invite your friends over for a night of fun and games. You can play classic board games, card games, video games, or even create your own custom game. There's no limit to the possibilities!

ATTEND

Attend a Gaming Convention

If you're looking for something bigger, consider attending a gaming convention. Gaming conventions feature all kinds of activities, from tournaments to special panels to exclusive sneak peeks at upcoming releases.

TRY

Try out New Games

Nothing’s more exciting than trying out a new game. Whether you prefer digital or analog games, there's always something new to discover. Check out a new game every day during Games Day!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Games Day

Games help with decision making

Many games involve players having to make decisions that affect the outcome - such as which move to make in chess or what card to play in poker. This helps players practice their problem solving and decision making skills which they can then use in real life situations.

Games are Fun

There's no denying that playing games, whether they are board games, card games, video games or any other type of game, can be a lot of fun. They give us an outlet to let loose, bond with friends and family members, and even learn new skills. Plus, there's nothing quite like the adrenaline rush of winning a challenge!

Games provide quality entertainment

It takes time, money and energy to go out for a night on the town. But why bother when you can have just as good (if not better!) of a time by staying home and playing some games? You'll get some quality entertainment without having to leave the comfort of your own home!

Related holidays

International Games Week

Get your game on! Celebrate International Games Week and discover new worlds, epic adventures, and unforgettable journeys of camaraderie!

National Play Games with Your Family Day

Relationship and family observance on October 31 to encourage families to play games together and strengthen household bonds through shared recreation.

National Game & Puzzle Week

Get ready to sharpen your mind and have some fun during National Game & Puzzle Week - there's something for everyone, from classic board games to challenging puzzles!

Play More Cards Day

Get ready to shuffle, deal, and play all day - it's Play More Cards Day! With countless games and endless fun, there's no better way to spend your day.

57Read

FOR MARKETERS & CREATORS

Turn every day into a moment your audience actually shows up for.

8.4M

Monthly readers

5K+

Holidays tracked

Holiday Calendar for Brands Developer API