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when is commonwealth games ?

# When is the Commonwealth Games?

The Commonwealth Games are a multi-sport event celebrated every four years, bringing together athletes from 54 nations and territories that make up the Commonwealth of Nations. In this article, we’ll be exploring when and where the Commonwealth Games have taken place in the past, with a particular focus on the 2022 edition hosted in Birmingham, England, and looking ahead to the 2026 edition in Victoria, Australia.

## The 2022 Commonwealth Games: Birmingham, England

The 2022 Commonwealth Games, officially known as the XXII Commonwealth Games and commonly referred to as Birmingham 2022, took place from **28 July to 8 August 2022** in Birmingham, England. This marked England’s third hosting of the event after London in 1986 and 2014. The games were also a special occasion for Birmingham, as it was selected to host the Games over other cities like Melbourne, Durban, and The Hague.

Coverage of the 2022 Commonwealth Games was extensive and could be enjoyed on various BBC platforms including BBC TV, BBC iPlayer, Red Button, and via the BBC Sport website and mobile app.

Birmingham 2022 was remembered not only for its host of sporting performances but also for its contribution to the accessibility and inclusivity of the Games. The event focused on maximizing its impact for the future, setting a new standard for accessibility (Making a Games For All) and leaving a lasting legacy for the city and the region.

## A Brief History of the Commonwealth Games

The journey of the Commonwealth Games is an interesting one. It started in 1930 as the British Empire Games and evolved through different names until 1978 when it was officially titled the Commonwealth Games. It has continued under this name since, showcasing the unity and diversity of the Commonwealth.

One of the significant developments in the Games’ history was the inclusion of para athletes. Since 2002, athletes with disabilities were included in their national teams, making the Commonwealth Games the first fully inclusive international multi-sport event.

In 2018, the inclusive spirit of the Games received a further boost when the Commonwealth Games became the first major multi-sport event to introduce the ‘Paralympic legacy,’ ensuring that the event leaves a lasting positive impact beyond the Games themselves.

## The 2026 Commonwealth Games: Victoria, Australia

The next edition of the Commonwealth Games will be held in Victoria, Australia, from **17 to 29 March 2026**. This marks the first time a state or region will host the Games in Australia, with the sporting events to take place across several cities including Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat, Gippsland, and Shepparton. The event is expected to attract millions of viewers and provide a significant economic boost to Victoria.

## Conclusion

Through its history, the Commonwealth Games have evolved to reflect the changing dynamics of the Commonwealth of Nations. From its beginning as the British Empire Games to its present-day fully inclusive format, the Games are a testament to the growth and adaptability of the Commonwealth. The 2022 Birmingham Games and the upcoming 2026 Games in Victoria, Australia, continue to set new benchmarks for inclusivity and accessibility, providing exciting opportunities for athletes and spectators alike.

So, whether you’re a sports enthusiast or someone interested in global cultural events, the Commonwealth Games are definitely worth following. Stay tuned for more coverage including highlights from past Games, behind-the-scenes content, and live updates as we get closer to the 2026 Games in Victoria, Australia.