Frequently Asked Questions

Olympism and the Olympic Movement

What is Olympic Day?

  • The creation of Olympic Day follows on from a suggestion of Doctor Gruss (IOC Member for Czechoslovakia) who presented a report on a World Olympic Day celebration which would be a day of promoting the Olympic idea. The concept of an Olympic Day was accepted during the 42nd IOC Session in January 1948 and National Olympic Committees were put in charge of organizing the event. The first Olympic Day was celebrated on 23 June 1948.

    Today’s concept of Olympic Day has dwhat-is-olympic-dayeveloped into an annual worldwide celebration of the Olympic Movement and is a day to promote a healthy and active lifestyle. NOCs are organizing sports, cultural and educational activities for all, regardless of age, gender, social background or sporting ability. People are encouraged to get active on Olympic Day, to learn about the Olympic Values, to try new sports and activities and to reflect on topics such as sustainability, inclusion, solidarity and peace. Since 1987, Olympic Day has also been associated with Olympic Day Runs all over the world.

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