Bled Chess Festival 2026

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In the world of the 64 squares, Bled enjoys legendary status. From the historic tournament of 1931 and the iconic spectacle of 1961 to the unforgettable 35th Chess Olympiad in 2002, Bled has played host to the greatest names in the history of the game. This year, that grand tradition returns home.

Under the direction of the Ljubljana Chess Club, the spirit of the famous Bled tournaments is being revived with a modern twist. This first edition of the revival is designed as a tribute to recreational chess players, offering them the chance to experience professional conditions—usually reserved for the elite—in one of the world’s most beautiful tourist destinations.

More Than Just a Tournament

The heart of the festival is the OPEN Amateur Tournament in standard chess, aimed at young talents, seniors, and chess enthusiasts with a rating of up to 2300. Organisers expect around 100 players from 22 countries to compete over nine rounds using the Swiss system.

What truly sets this festival apart is the direct contact with top masters. The festival ambassadors—Slovenia’s leading female player, WGM Laura Unuk, and Austrian GM Markus Ragger—will be far more than mere observers. Throughout the week, they will be available to participants for in-depth game analysis, professional advice on improving play, and sharing invaluable insights from the world of professional chess.

Join the Celebration of Chess

The festival extends beyond the competitive halls, offering a comprehensive experience for both participants and visitors. You can follow the action live at the venue or via a live stream on the festival’s website. For local fans who cannot commit to the full week, several one-day tournaments and special events are available.

SIDE EVENTS

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Exhibition: Chess Through Time
As part of the Bled Collectors Days (taking place on 13 and 14 March at the Bled Festival Hall), visitors can explore a photographic exhibition marking the 90th anniversary of the Chess Federation of Slovenia. Prepared by the Museum of Contemporary History of Slovenia, the exhibition revives memories of legendary chess moments in Bled. Guests can view the evolution of chess clocks, admire trophies won by Grandmasters and World Youth Champions Laura Unuk and Luka Lenič, and see unique chess sets and thematic postcards.

Do not miss the opportunity to be part of this new chapter in Bled’s chess fairytale!

More information about the festival is available at the link >

How Bled Became a Global Chess Venue? Check the link for more information >

Organisateur:

Tajfun - Šahovski klub Ljubljana
Glavarjeva ulica 16, 1000 Ljubljana
T.: +386 (0)31 32 15 18
E.:
W.: https://chess-festival.com/bled/