Back to events
Every July 8 -(July 8, 2027) - 5min read - Updated July 21, 2026 Fun

National Video Game Day

D

Introduction

National Video Game Day 2027 is a day to celebrate the video games we can't stop playing. Grab your controller, squad up, or go full solo grind. Whether you're chasing wins, replaying retro favorites, or diving into a brand-new title, the day is all about having fun and unlocking memories.

Key Takeaways

  • National Video Game Day is celebrated every year on July 8 to honor video games and gaming culture.
  • National Video Games Day is a separate observance celebrated annually on September 12.
  • The holiday traces its roots to 1991, when Videogame Day first appeared in Chase's Calendar of Events.
  • You can celebrate by hosting a gaming marathon, trying new releases, visiting a game store, or organizing a tournament.

What is National Video Game Day?

National VideoGame Day is all about celebrating video games and the awesome communities, stories, and epic moments they create.

Two friends having fun playing video games indoors, captured in a lively and engaging moment.
Photo by Yan Krukau from Pexels

Whether you're grinding ranked, speedrunning, chasing achievements, or just vibing with friends, today’s your excuse to queue up one more match. So, squad up, and enjoy the GG-worthy fun.

When is National Video Game Day?

Gaming fans actually celebrate twice a year. National Video Game Day lands on July 8, while a separate observance, National Video Games Day, falls on September 12. National Video Game Day 2027 gives players two chances to celebrate their favorite video games this year.

Future National Video Game Day

Year

Day

Date

2026

Wednesday

July 8

2027

Thursday

July 8

2028

Saturday

July 8

2029

Sunday

July 8

2030

Monday

July 8

2031

Tuesday

July 8

Brief History

The story of National Videogame Day begins in 1991, when a "Videogame Day" first appeared in Chase's Calendar of Events. The listing was sponsored by David Earle, president of Kid Video Warriors. During the 1990s, the date changed several times before splitting into two observances. July 8 remained National Videogame Day, while September 12 became National Video Games Day, and both are still celebrated by gaming communities today.

Two people playing a vintage gaming console, showcasing retro entertainment.
Photo by Ron Lach from Pexels

The holiday reflects the incredible journey of video games themselves. From experimental university projects in the 1950s and Ralph Baer's groundbreaking Brown Box to Atari, Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox, mobile gaming, and today's virtual reality experiences, gaming has grown into one of America's favorite forms of entertainment.

Ideas for Celebrating National Video Game Day

National VideoGame Day 2027 is all about pressing pause on everyday life, grabbing a controller, and having a blast with your favorite video games.

Person playing with a red PlayStation controller, evoking nostalgia for classic gaming on National Video Game Day.
Photo by Mahmoud Yahyaoui from Pexels

Here are a few ideas to get the most out of the day:

  • Host a Video Games Marathon

Queue up your favorite franchise and game for hours. Stock up on snacks, invite your squad, and see if you can beat one more level before calling it a night. Bonus points if you finish a game you've been putting off forever.

  • Explore New Video Games Releases

Step outside your comfort zone and try a fresh release or an underrated indie title. You might discover your next main game instead of sticking to the same old meta.

  • Visit a Video Games Store

Hit up a local game shop to hunt for retro classics, collectibles, or the latest releases. You never know when you'll stumble across a hidden gem or score an awesome deal.

  • Organize a Video Games Tournament

Round up your friends for a friendly showdown. Whether it's a fighting game, racing title, or party game, a little trash talk and bragging rights make every match more fun.

  • Donate Old Video Games

If your shelves are overflowing, pass along video games and consoles you no longer use. Someone else gets to experience those adventures, and you free up space for your next pickup.

Best online stores for digital game downloads

Stacked retro video game cartridges in orange cases, showcasing popular titles to play on National Video Game Day.
Photo by Stanislav Kondratiev from Pexels

Digital storefronts make buying video games faster and more convenient than ever. These platforms offer massive libraries, regular sales, and instant downloads, making them ideal for celebrating National Video Game Day without leaving home.

  • Steam - the largest PC marketplace, known for its massive catalog of video games, frequent seasonal sales, and an active community of reviewers.
  • Epic Games Store - offers weekly free titles and exclusive video game deals that often beat competitor pricing.
  • PlayStation Store - the primary digital marketplace for PlayStation owners, with a deep back-catalog of console video games.
  • Xbox Store - integrates tightly with Xbox Game Pass, giving members access to a rotating library of video games alongside direct purchases.
  • Nintendo eShop - the go-to destination for Nintendo Switch owners, featuring exclusive first-party video games and indie titles.

What are the best multiplayer games to celebrate National VideoGame Day with friends?

Hands holding a Nintendo Switch with Fortnite game screen indoors.
Photo by Erik Mclean from Pexels

Nothing captures the spirit of National Video Game Day quite like playing with friends. These multiplayer video games work well for casual nights or competitive sessions, no matter your group's skill level.

  • Fortnite - a battle royale staple that supports large groups and constant seasonal updates, keeping the video game experience fresh.
  • Among Us - a simple, social deduction title perfect for casual get-togethers and quick rounds.
  • Minecraft - offers open-ended building and survival modes, making it one of the most flexible video games for mixed groups.
  • Call of Duty: Warzone - delivers fast-paced squad-based combat for players who want intense competition.
  • Rocket League - combines soccer and vehicles in short, high-energy matches ideal for quick play sessions.

Conclusion

Happy National Video Game Day! Whether you're clearing out your backlog, revisiting an all-time favorite, or discovering a brand-new adventure, this celebration is all about enjoying the fun that video games bring. Make the most of National VideoGame Day 2027, pick up a controller, and enjoy every quest, match, and victory along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What day is National VideoGame Day?

National VideoGame Day is celebrated every year on July 8. It is often confused with National Video Games Day, which takes place on September 12. Despite their similar names, they are two separate observances.

2. Which game is No. 1 in the world?

Minecraft is the No. 1 best-selling video game in the world. With more than 350 million copies sold, it continues to be one of the most popular video games ever made.

3. Which country is No. 1 in gaming?

China has the world's largest video games market by revenue. The United States ranks close behind, and together the two countries account for more than half of the global gaming industry.

D

Event by

Day of Today Team

The editorial team behind Day of Today, researching and writing about the world's most interesting holidays and celebrations.

Related Events

National Lazy Day
August 10, 2026 - Every August 10 · 5min read Fun

National Lazy Day

Take a well-earned break on August 10. Discover the meaning, history, fun traditions, and relaxing ways to enjoy a guilt-free day of rest.

National Relaxation Day
August 15, 2026 - Every August 15 · 5min read Fun

National Relaxation Day

Take a break from the daily rush on August 15 with simple ways to recharge, reduce stress, and enjoy a calmer, healthier, and more balanced day. Read now!

National Book Lovers Day
August 9, 2026 - Every August 9 · 6min read Fun

National Book Lovers Day

Celebrate the joy of reading with inspiring ideas and meaningful ways to honor your favorite books and the stories that bring people together. Read now!