Astana, Kazakhstan, June 28, 2026: Kazakhstan celebrated International Olympic Day with a series of sports and educational events across the country to promote Olympic values, sport and active lifestyles.
One of the hallmarks of the celebrations was the "Olympian is Born" campaign held for the sixth consecutive year. The National Olympic Committee of Kazakhstan congratulated families whose children were born on June 23 – the IOC-designated Olympic Day worldwide.
More than 1,000 new babies received commemorative gifts from the country’s Olympic community. The initiative is one of the most recognisable social projects in Kazakhstan that reaches every region of the country, highlighting the continuity of Olympic values and reinforcing its status as a cherished tradition of the celebration.
The sporting programme opened with the Barys Fest children’s ice hockey tournament organised by the NOC in cooperation with Barys Hockey Club. A total of eight teams participated.
Swimming and artistic swimming competitions were also held with the support of UNICEF, while a water polo competition was contested by 35 teams. Volleyball and triathlon competitions were also held.
The Kazakhstan Olympic Committee posted: “International Olympic Day brings together people of different ages and professions around the shared values of friendship, respect, and the pursuit of excellence. It is important for us that everyone can take part in this celebration, regardless of their fitness level or sporting experience.”