How often do the Olympics take place?

The summer and winter Olympic Games are each held every four years. A decision by the International Olympic Committee in 1986 placed the two events, which had been held during the same year every four years for decades, on separate cycles.

The ancient Olympic Games were held every four years in Olympia, Greece. The four years between games were known as an "Olympiad" and were used to track time. After a period of dormancy, the Olympic Games were revived in 1896 in Athens, Greece. The games have continued since then, with the exception of a hiatus during World War II.