Bowls seizes Commonwealth Games moment to spark biggest grassroots movement in a generation
With 100 days to go until the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, the sport of bowls is launching its most ambitious participation drive yet, a nationwide campaign designed to turn summer inspiration into a surge of new players across the UK.
Bowls’ Big Summer 2026, running from May to September 2026, is a nationwide initiative designed to turn inspiration into action. Backed by the global spotlight of the Commonwealth Games, it aims to open the doors of clubs across the country and invite people of all ages and abilities to experience the sport first-hand and discover, or rediscover, bowls.
At its heart are inclusive, friendly casual ways to play, giving communities the chance to discover bowls in a relaxed and welcoming environment regardless of format or code.
As one of the ten sports featured at this year’s Commonwealth Games, bowls will enjoy daily broadcast coverage and major media attention throughout the summer. With millions watching elite athletes compete on the international stage, Bowls’ Big Summer is about harnessing that moment and turning enthusiasm into real participation at local club level.
The Commonwealth Games presents a unique opportunity to showcase the skill, accessibility, and social benefits of bowls to a wide national audience and inspire the country to get behind the team and follow in their footsteps through local opportunity at club level.
Bowls is a sport that brings people together combining physical activity, mental wellbeing, and strong social connections.
Clubs across all formats and codes of the sport will take part in Bowls’ Big Summer, offering fun, flexible and informal ways to play, from relaxed open days and short taster sessions to casual Pay and Play options that fit around modern lifestyles.
At the centre of the campaign is Play-Bowls.com, the destination for anyone looking to get involved. Play-Bowls.com will act as the national hub for Bowls’ Big Summer 2026, making it easy for people to find their nearest club, discover casual ways to play and book sessions.
The initiative builds on the success of the Bowls’ Big Weekend campaigns over recent years, where hundreds of clubs opened their doors and welcomed thousands of newcomers over a bank holiday weekend. With strong public interest, positive community engagement, and significant media reach, Bowls’ Big Summer 2026 is set to be the most ambitious campaign yet.
This year’s programme will deliver a coordinated national marketing campaign, combining storytelling, video content, and media partnerships to highlight real experiences from across the bowls community while consistently driving audiences to Play-Bowls.com to take their first step into the sport.
During the Commonwealth Games period through July and August, clubs are especially encouraged to host themed “Have a Go” events, using the excitement and visibility of the international stage to attract new participants. With bowls in the national spotlight, Play-Bowls.com will be the key tool in converting interest into real life experiences at local clubs.
Bowls’ Big Summer 2026 invites everyone, individuals, families, and community groups to take part. Whether inspired by elite competition or simply looking for a new way to stay socially connected and active, this summer marks a turning point for the sport.
Clubs can download free digital marketing packs to assist in promotion of their open days, taster sessions and Pay and Play offerings this summer at https://bit.ly/BowlsBigSummer26Branding
To find your nearest club and book a session, visit www.Play-Bowls.com.
With thanks to New Reach
