World Marbles Day

World Marbles Day

World Marbles Day originated from from a Marbles Tournament that started on Good Friday in 1588 and became a tradition. It is still held on Good Friday every year and has been played annually since 1938. 

History of World Marbles Day

Marbles have been around since ancient times and have been found in archaeological sites. Marbles have been a form of entertainment for centuries and are popular around the world. 

World Marbles Day dates back to 1588 when marbles was chosen as the deciding game between two young suitors for the hand of a Tinsley Green milk maiden. it became a tradition and since 1938, the 351st Marbles Championship at Tinsley Green has become a national event. Organized by the British Marbles Board of Control, the British and World Marbles Championships has grown to bring in participating players from around the world. 

Want to Play? Here's How

The main goal is to knock the marbles out of the ring and the first team to knock 25 marbles from the ring wins. The game is played with 49 marbles grouped together in a 6 foot ring covered with sand. Six players per team take turns shooting a marble into the ring to try to knock another marble out. See the complete rules here. Practice up because anyone can participate! 

Celebrate and Unite on World Marbles Day

Marbles are a fun game, fun to collect, fun to play with, and they unite people in so many ways, as the British have shown with their annual tournament. 

Here are some ways to celebrate this fun holiday

• Play a game with marbles 
• Bring marbles to work or school and trade
• Fill a jar with marbles and have everyone guess how many are in the jar
• Host your own Marble Championship and play the British way.