Malaysian Chess Federation

Join The 2nd Bled Chess Festival 2027 in Slovenia

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by

Ellie Emira
in

Following the successful first edition in 2026, the Bled Chess Festival returns from 8 to 14 March 2027 at the Rikli Balance Hotel Congress Centre in Bled, Slovenia, bringing together players from around the world for another week of chess, shared experiences, and life beyond the board.

Bled holds a special place in chess history, having welcomed legendary names like Mikhail Tal and Bobby Fischer and hosted major events like the 2002 Chess Olympiad. Today, the festival continues this remarkable tradition in a modern setting overlooking the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Bled, Bled Castle, and the surrounding mountains. The first edition welcomed players from 22 countries, and the 2027 edition looks forward to bringing together an even wider international chess community. Malaysian players and chess enthusiasts are warmly invited to join in Bled and become part of the next chapter of its chess story.

Overall Event Summary

  • Event Name: Bled Chess Festival 2027
  • Dates: 8 to 14 March 2027
  • Venue & Location: Rikli Balance Hotel Congress Centre, Bled, Slovenia
  • Event Format: 9-round Swiss system classical Open tournament (FIDE-rated)
  • Total Prize Fund: €6,000 — The winner will receive €1,000, with substantial prizes also awarded across different rating categories, as well as for women, juniors, and seniors

Tournament Format and Eligibility

The central event of the festival is an international classical Open tournament designed for players with a FIDE rating of 2300 or below, including titled players, youth competitors, and chess enthusiasts alike.

  • Rounds: 9 Rounds (Swiss system) (FIDE-rated)
  • Time Control: 75 minutes + 30 seconds per move, with an additional 15 minutes after move 40.
  • Playing Venue: Rikli Balance Hotel Congress Centre.

Prize Fund and Category Awards

The main tournament features a guaranteed total prize fund of €6,000 (approx. 6,500 USD).

  • Main Champion Prize: The winner will receive €1,000.
  • Category Prizes: Substantial prizes are also awarded across different rating categories, as well as for women, juniors, and seniors.

Side Events and Social Activities

Alongside the main tournament, a diverse program of chess and social activities runs throughout the week:

  • Chess Activities: Late Night Blitz, Chess960 tournament, Dr. Janez Barle Memorial Blitz Tournament, simultaneous exhibitions, and a Psychology in Chess seminar.
  • Grandmaster Interactions: Evenings with Festival Ambassadors IM/WGM Laura Unuk and GM Markus Ragger, featuring game analysis, conversations, and informal gatherings.
  • Excursions & Leisure: Local wine tasting experiences, boat trips to Bled Island, and visits to Bled Castle.

Voices from Participants

Participants from the inaugural edition shared their thoughts on what makes the festival special:

“Playing in a beautiful, spacious hall with a view of Lake Bled, combined with flawless organization and a rich accompanying programme, creates a special experience that should not be missed.” — Teja Vidic, Slovenia

“The festival is the best tournament experience I’ve ever played in. From the venue and playing hall to the beautiful location and activities available, everything is stunning. It is the closest to feeling like you’re playing at an elite Grandmaster event.” — Kelvin Finke, Australia

“The venue with its magnificent view of the lake, church and mountains was fantastic. The spacious playing hall, live broadcasts and commentary were impressive, while the warm approach of the organizers and arbiters created a very pleasant and welcoming atmosphere. Bled Chess Festival 2026 was a very successful first edition.” — Gerhard Pichler, Austria

Registration and Accommodation Packages

Participants can choose from various festival packages with or without official accommodation. Official lodging is available at the tournament venue (Rikli Balance Hotel **** Superior) and at Hotel Park **** located just a short walk away.

Read the full regulations and register directly with the organizers at the links below:

Bled_Chess_Festival_2027_Invitation_Download