On 20 July, the Lviv region joins the rest of the world in marking International Chess Day and Chess Day in Ukraine. This intellectual yet accessible game brings together both amateurs and professional athletes, and attracts adults and children alike.
Chess has long-standing traditions in Lviv region, which is renowned for its strong chess players and coaches. The names of many representatives of the region are well known far beyond Ukraine thanks to their sporting achievements.
International Chess Day has officially been celebrated on 20 July since 1966. The initiative to establish this day came from the World Chess Federation FIDE, under whose auspices themed events, tournaments and other chess-related activities take place around the globe on this day.
On the same day, 20 July, Ukraine also celebrates its national professional holiday — Chess Day in Ukraine. It was introduced by a resolution of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on 1 November 2011.