Study OAS · 23 June 2026

Olympic Day 2026

What’s the News?

Olympic Day is observed every year on 23 June to commemorate the founding of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 1894 and to promote the Olympic values of Excellence, Friendship, and Respect. The day encourages people of all ages and abilities to participate in sports and physical activity while fostering unity, inclusion, and healthy lifestyles.

Theme for 2026

"You can do this. Let's Move"

History of Olympic Day

• The International Olympic Committee (IOC) was founded on 23 June 1894 at the Sorbonne, Paris, on the initiative of Baron Pierre de Coubertin, regarded as the father of the modern Olympic Games.
• The first Olympic Day was celebrated in 1948 following a decision taken at the 42nd IOC Session held in St. Moritz, Switzerland.
• Initially observed by a few National Olympic Committees (NOCs), it is now celebrated globally.

Additional Info

• International Olympic Committee (IOC)
  • Founded: 23 June 1894
  • Founder: Baron Pierre de Coubertin
  • Headquarters: Lausanne, Switzerland
  • Current President: Kirsty Coventry
• Olympic Motto
  • Citius, Altius, Fortius – Communiter
  • Meaning: Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together
• Olympic Symbol
  • Five interlocking rings represent the five inhabited continents:
    • Africa
    • Americas
    • Asia
    • Europe
    • Oceania
  • Symbolize unity through sport.

Sources

• Olympics.com