International Day of Traditional Sports and Games – 14th AugustCelebrating Global Heritage Through ICTSG Traditional Sports and Games (TSG) are far more than physical activities. They are vessels of history, culture, and identity — passed down through generations, embodying the values, wisdom, and creativity of communities. From Kabaddi in South Asia and Capoeira in Brazil, to Inuit games in the Arctic and traditional wrestling in Africa and Central Asia, TSG reflect the unique lifestyles, philosophies, and environments of the people who created them. The International Day of TSG serves as a vital platform to: - Raise awareness about the cultural, educational, and social importance of traditional games.- Encourage youth engagement, promoting healthy lifestyles and intergenerational dialogue.- Inspire national and international policies that protect and promote TSG as part of the world's cultural diversity. In a rapidly globalizing world, TSG are at risk of fading into obscurity. The 14th of August is a clarion call to governments, organizations, and individuals to act now to protect these cultural treasures before they are lost. Click here to Learn more about TSGDay 2025 - Full Program & Participation Deatils  The Role of ICTSGThe International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG) stands at the forefront of this global movement. As the leading international body devoted exclusively to the preservation and promotion of TSG, ICTSG plays a pivotal role in institutionalizing this observance and coordinating its celebration across the world. Under the umbrella of ICTSG, the International Day of TSG is marked by:- Global celebrations and festivals showcasing traditional games from different countries.- Workshops, exhibitions, and demonstrations aimed at educating communities and policy makers.- Collaboration with UNESCO, UN agencies, national governments, and community organizations.- Inclusion initiatives that use TSG as a vehicle for peace, cultural dialogue, and mutual respect.

Traditional games are leisure and recreation activities which can have a ritualistic character. They are part of a diverse universal heritage and are practiced in an individual or collective manner and promote global health and peace. It is necessary to preserve and promote these indigenous games, hence in this regard 14th August has been declared as the International Day of Traditional Sports and Games.

ICTSG and the Member States through their respective ministries after having Consultation Meetings agreed to enhance the diffusion of TSG knowledge and declared 14th August as “INTERNATIONAL DAY OF TRADITIONAL SPORTS AND GAMES”. ICTSG continues to remain proactively and creatively committed to this essential role of providing guidance and expertise to the Member States. Many traditional sports and games have disappeared or are under threat of extinction. In order to ensure cultural diversity and peace, as well as the participation of all, regardless of gender, religion, ability or social background in sports and traditional games, we resolve to promote the balance of the existing diversity of elite sports, with traditional sports and games. Member states are especially encouraged to: - Host national-level celebrations that spotlight their unique traditional sports and games.- Support grassroots movements and cultural custodians who keep these traditions alive.- Promote TSG in schools and recreational policies to instill pride and heritage in youth.- Utilize this day to highlight cultural tourism opportunities connected with traditional sports. The International Day of Traditional Sports and Games is more than a commemoration—it is a movement. As we celebrate on 14th August, ICTSG calls upon all stakeholders — from governments and NGOs to educators, cultural leaders, and youth — to embrace, protect, and promote traditional sports and games as essential components of cultural identity and human development. This day serves as a reminder: in a world increasingly shaped by technology and standardization, our traditional games are bridges to the wisdom of the past and keys to a more inclusive, diverse, and grounded future. Join the Celebration: Whether you're organizing a local tournament, sharing a traditional game from your culture, or learning a new one, your participation on August 14th helps keep this global heritage alive. Under the guidance of ICTSG, together we can ensure that the heartbeat of traditional sports and games continues to echo across generations. #TSGDay #ICTSG #CulturalHeritage #TraditionalGamesRevival #ICTSG #Heritage through Games # Games of the World #play to Preserve #International Day of TSG #One World many Games #My Traditional Games # TSG in Action #Play the past # Tradition Unites #Presserve Tradition #TSG for all  The recognition of the potential capacity of physical activity and sports to effectively contribute to the amelioration of health, education, culture, civic harmony, and social welfare; human, social and economic development; international cooperation and lasting peace.

Let us unite the world in celebrating our shared heritage. On this 14th August, let us reaffirm the spirit of Traditional Sports and Games — not merely as play, but as a living bond between past and future, peace and diversity. Support ICTSG’s mission, and help preserve the heartbeat of humanity.