0 saved#5,796 of 6,224

World Alternative Games

Embrace the different, the unique, the fun at the World Alternative Games! An extraordinary event that breaks the norm in competitive sports.

Saturday

8–21

August 2026

Last updated February 8, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEWorld Alternative Games (biennial, even-year August)

OBSERVED INWales

CATEGORYSports

SUBCATEGORYExtreme Sports

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Let's swing away from the ordinary and dive into the extraordinary on August 5 for the World Alternative Games! This is no run-of-the-mill sports event; from chess boxing to wife carrying, the World Alternative Games love to celebrate the fun and quirky sides of sport. The tradition began as a way to provide a different kind of sports entertainment, as well as an inclusive platform where enthusiasts of all abilities can join in. It's a day created to engage the fun-loving spirit in everyone, so get ready to witness some of the most exciting, entertaining, and alternative sports the world has to offer!

TIMELINE

World Alternative Games Timeline

Inception of the Idea

The idea behind World Alternative Games was conceived as a counter to traditional sporting events, emphasizing inclusivity, fun and quirkiness.

First World Alternative Games

The inaugural World Alternative Games event took place, drawing attention for its novelty and entertainment value.

Yearly Tradition Established

The World Alternative Games was held for the third consecutive year, solidifying its place as a yearly tradition.

Global Recognition

Media outlets across the world began to take notice and report on the games, leading to increased global recognition.

Record Participants

2019's event saw a record number of participants and spectators, proving the growing popularity of the World Alternative Games.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate World Alternative Games

Create your own alternative game

Get creative and invent your own alternative game. Have fun brainstorming unique and quirky games with friends or family. Maybe it's a hybrid of two existing games or something completely new. Step outside the box!

ARRANGE

Arrange a mini Alternative Games event

Host your own World Alternative Games event. You can include some popular alternative games like underwater hockey, chess boxing, or even something as simple as a three-legged race. Make it a community event to spread the amusement.

CREATE

Create an Alternative Games team costume

Take part in the spirit of the day by creating team costumes for your favorite alternative sport. Whether it's dressing up as chess pieces for chess boxing or donning all sorts of underwater gear for underwater hockey, get into the spirit with some fun and creative outfits.

WATCH

Watch and support the games online

If you can't physically attend the World Alternative Games, you can still participate by streaming the games online. Rally behind your favorite teams and players, and maybe even share your reactions on social media to engage with other fans all over the world.

MAKE

Make Alternative Games-inspired artworks

Why not celebrate by creating some art inspired by the Alternative Games? Whether it's drawing, painting, or even making a sculpture, let the uniqueness of the World Alternative Games inspire you to create something fun and original.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love World Alternative Games

Celebrates Uniqueness and Quirkiness

World Alternative Games is a unique spectacle that celebrates quirkiness in sport. With an interesting mix of games like chess boxing to wife carrying, it adds a delightful twist to regular sport events, making it a reason to love and appreciate how wonderful human diversity can be.

Encourages Creativity and Fun

The World Alternative Games opens up a space for everyone to embrace their creativity and make fun their main agenda. Whether you're a participant or a viewer, the unusual set of games will surely make you think out of the box and bridge the gap between sport and amusement.

Inclusive and Engaging

World Alternative Games is an inclusive event where people of all abilities can find something they can enjoy and participate in. This initiative breaks the conventional barriers in competitive sports, making everyone feel welcomed and involved.

Related holidays

International Games Week

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

Games Day

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

Special Recreation for the Disabled Day

It's time to recognize and celebrate the abilities of individuals with disabilities on Special Recreation for the Disabled Day. Join in on inclusive activities and events!

11Read

TUE

Jun 2026