The České Budějovice Chess Festival 2025 invites players from around the world to immerse themselves in an unforgettable chess experience from June 28 to July 6, 2025, in the beautiful city of České Budějovice, Czech Republic. Known for its rich history, medieval architecture, and world-famous Budweiser beer, České Budějovice creates the perfect setting for a summer chess festival that blends intense competition with cultural charm. The festival features multiple tournaments suitable for professionals, club players, and juniors alike, offering a balanced mix of serious chess and summer enjoyment.

📅 Dates and Daily Schedule

• Tournament Dates: June 28 – July 6, 2025
• Opening Ceremony: June 28, 2025 (morning)
• Rounds 1–8: June 28 – July 5, 2025 (one round daily)
• Final Round & Award Ceremony: July 6, 2025 (morning)

Participants will enjoy spacious playing conditions, daily pairings, and evening social opportunities in the city.

📍 Venue Information

Organizers will host the festival at the Cultural House Gerbera (Kulturní dům Gerbera), centrally located in České Budějovice. This modern venue offers excellent playing conditions, accessible facilities, and proximity to hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions.

Address: Kulturní dům Gerbera, Lidická tř. 2006/1, 370 01 České Budějovice, Czech Republic

⏱️ Time Control and Tournament Format

The festival features multiple sections, including:

• Open A (FIDE-rated): 9 rounds, 90 minutes + 30 seconds increment per move
• Open B (U1800 players): 9 rounds, same time control
• Junior Rapid Event: 2-day rapid tournament with 15+10 time control

Organizers follow FIDE pairing rules and publish standings and pairings after each round.

🏆 Prize Fund and Awards

The total prize fund exceeds €8,000, distributed across all tournaments and categories:

• Open A:

  • 1st Prize: €1,500 + Trophy
  • 2nd Prize: €1,000
  • 3rd Prize: €700

• Open B:

  • Top 5 players receive cash prizes
  • Best U1600, U1400, junior, senior, and female players also receive special awards

Every participant receives a certificate or souvenir to commemorate their participation.

📝 Registration and Participation

Players must register online or via email before June 20, 2025, to confirm participation. Organizers accept entries in all age groups and ratings.

Eligibility: Open to players of all federations
Maximum Capacity: 200 players (early registration recommended)

💳 Entry Fees and Payment Options

• GM/IM/WGM/WIM: Free
• Open A Players: €50
• Open B Players: €40
• Junior Rapid Participants: €15
• Late Registration Fee (after June 20): +€10

Participants may pay by bank transfer or cash on arrival. Organizers will confirm payment details via email upon registration.

✈️ Travel and 🏨 Accommodation

How to Get There:
České Budějovice lies 150 km south of Prague and is easily reachable by direct train or bus. Prague International Airport serves as the main international gateway.

Where to Stay:
Organizers partner with local hotels, offering discounted accommodation at venues within walking distance. Options range from budget hostels to 4-star hotels. Players should book rooms early to secure preferred lodging.

👤 Tournament Management Team

• Tournament Director: Pavel Chrz – Esteemed organizer with decades of experience in Czech and international chess events
• Chief Arbiter: IA Zuzana Havelková – Certified FIDE arbiter known for her fair and professional supervision at top-level events

Both the director and arbiter ensure a friendly, competitive, and well-structured event for all players.

🏛️ Organizer: ŠACHklub České Budějovice

The ŠACHklub České Budějovice organizes the annual festival and promotes chess throughout South Bohemia. With a strong tradition of youth training, local competitions, and international partnerships, the club plays a central role in cultivating chess talent and community in the region.

Contact Information:
📍 Address: ŠACHklub, U Trojice 2, 370 04 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
📞 Phone: +420 602 412 789
✉️ Email: sachklub.cb@gmail.com

🌟 Why You Should Play in České Budějovice Chess Festival 2025

Join the České Budějovice Chess Festival 2025 to combine your passion for chess with the magic of summer in the Czech Republic. Whether you chase rating goals, norms, or lifelong memories, this festival offers the right environment for it all — warm hospitality, beautiful scenery, fierce competition, and a cultural chess celebration. Make your move and be part of one of Central Europe’s most delightful summer chess events!

You may find more similar exciting chess tournaments at mychess.events.