The Chess Slovak Open® 2026 is one of Central Europe’s most respected international chess festivals, returning for its 8th edition on 22–30 August 2026 in Skalica, Slovakia. With a total prize fund of €15,000 and GM/IM norm opportunities, this tournament attracts strong players from across Europe and beyond.
Tournament Overview
Chess Slovak Open® 2026 features five separate tournaments, making it a true chess festival suitable for players of all levels — from aspiring juniors to seasoned grandmasters.
Tournament Formats
Masters Tournament (GM/IM Norm eligible)
The flagship event of the festival. 9 rounds of classical chess, Swiss system. Open to FIDE-rated players. The Masters section regularly features grandmasters and international masters from Slovakia, Czech Republic, Hungary, and other European countries, providing excellent norm opportunities.
Open Tournament
9 rounds, Swiss system. Open to all players regardless of rating. Perfect for club players, amateurs, and anyone looking for a competitive but welcoming environment.
Women’s Tournament
A dedicated women’s section with a separate prize fund, encouraging female participation at all levels.
Rapid Tournament
Weekend rapid chess event (28–29 August 2026). Fast-paced and exciting — ideal for players who want to combine the festival atmosphere with rapid chess action.
Blitz Tournament
The festival closes with a blitz tournament on 30 August 2026. A fun and intense finale to the 9-day festival.
Prize Fund
The total prize fund for Chess Slovak Open® 2026 is €15,000, distributed across all tournament categories. The Masters section offers the largest prizes:
- 1st place: €3,000
- 2nd place: €2,000
- 3rd place: €1,500
Additional category prizes, special prizes for the best Slovak player, best U18, and more are also on offer.
Venue: Skalica, Slovakia
The festival takes place at Dom kultúry (Cultural House), Námestie slobody, Skalica. The playing hall is air-conditioned, professionally equipped, and provides live game broadcasting throughout the event.
Skalica is a beautiful medieval town in the Záhorie region of western Slovakia, near the Slovak-Czech border — conveniently accessible:
- 60 km from Brno, Czech Republic
- 70 km from Bratislava, Slovakia
- 80 km from Vienna, Austria
The town offers excellent accommodation at competitive prices and a warm atmosphere perfect for a multi-day chess festival.
Special Milestone: 70 Years of Chess in Skalica
The 2026 edition marks the 70th anniversary of organised chess in Skalica, making Chess Slovak Open® 2026 an unmissable event in the European chess calendar.
Who Should Attend?
- Grandmasters and IMs seeking norm opportunities in a well-organised, FIDE-rated event
- Club players and amateurs looking for a competitive open tournament in a beautiful European city
- Families — the festival includes side events and activities beyond the chessboard
- Chess tourists combining competitive chess with a visit to the historic Záhorie region
Registration
Registration is open at chessslovakopen.sk/registration-2026. Early registration is strongly encouraged as capacity is limited.
Questions? info@chessslovakopen.sk | +421 905 410 990