The Rubinstein Chess Festival 2026 in Polanica-Zdrój. The oldest tournament in Poland returns to the resort

Imagine a town where grandmasters from all over the world gather every August, and where, in the spa park, the silence of concentration over a chessboard replaces the sound of fountains. This is not a scene from a film. This is Polanica-Zdrój during the 2026 Rubinstein Chess Festival, one of the oldest and most prestigious tournaments in this part of Europe.

If you are looking for an idea for an August getaway that combines sporting excitement, history and spa relaxation, this weekend—or rather, ten days—may surprise you. Below you will find everything worth knowing: when and where it takes place, why it matters so much, and how to plan your stay so that after a day full of excitement you can return to a quiet, comfortable room.

The 2026 Rubinstein Chess Festival at a glance

• Date: 14–23 August 2026.
• Location: Polanica-Zdrój; the festival office operates at the Spa Theatre (ul. Parkowa 2).
• Edition: 62nd International Akiba Rubinstein Chess Festival.
• Who is it for: from grandmasters to amateurs and children, thanks to the division into rating groups.

These are ten days of live chess, during which the resort changes its rhythm. Players from Poland and abroad arrive in Polanica, along with their families, supporters and enthusiasts for whom this festival is an annual must on the calendar.

Why is this tournament a legend?

The history of the Memorial dates back to 1963. For decades, it was the strongest round-robin tournament held in Poland, and its list of guests reads like a ranking of the all-time chess elite.

World champions played in Polanica: Vasily Smyslov, Anatoly Karpov and Veselin Topalov. World champions Nona Gaprindashvili and Zsuzsa Polgar also sat down to play here. It is hard to find more illustrious names. Thanks to them, this unassuming Lower Silesian resort has become permanently inscribed in the history of world chess.

The festival is dedicated to the memory of Akiba Rubinstein, an absolutely exceptional figure in Polish chess, considered one of the world’s leading players during the first decades of the 20th century. Born in 1882 in Stawiski near Łomża, in the 1912 season he achieved something unprecedented: he triumphed in the five most important European tournaments, one after another. No chess player repeated this feat for decades. Interestingly, no other chess competition in the country today has such a long, uninterrupted tradition as the Polanica Memorial, and across Europe few tournaments can boast equally deep roots.

What happens during the festival?

Rubinstein is not one tournament, but an entire ecosystem of competitions. The main event is the grandmaster round-robin tournament, but alongside it there are a dozen or so open groups divided by rating and age. This means that both an experienced titled player and a junior taking their first serious steps can sit down to play.

Alongside classic games, there is plenty of excitement in shorter formats. The program includes blitz, rapid chess, evening blitz events, a pairs tournament and even Fischer Random Chess. There are also accompanying events that have been hallmarks of Polanica for years: living chess, simultaneous exhibitions and shows. Even if you cannot tell a gambit from castling, there is plenty to watch.

Polanica-Zdrój: chess is only the beginning

The greatest asset of this event is its location. Polanica-Zdrój is one of the most beautiful resorts in the Kłodzko Valley, with its historic Spa Park, pump room and promenade that invites you to stroll without any particular destination.

Between rounds, or instead of cheering from the sidelines, you can head out into the surrounding area. Within a short trip are the Errant Rocks, the Bear Cave in Kletno, the fortress in Kłodzko and the Skull Chapel in Czermna. The Kłodzko Valley is a region where it is hard to get bored, and August is practically made for exploring it.

Where to stay during the festival?

Ten days of competition means one thing: many people will be looking for accommodation at the same time. So if you are planning to come for the Rubinstein Festival, it is worth considering booking in advance, as August dates in Polanica fill up quickly.

With us, you can rest properly after a day full of excitement. Comfortable rooms will provide peace and quiet and a good night’s sleep, and after returning from town you can take a dip, as Guests have access to a wellness area with a swimming pool. It is hard to find a better way to recharge than relaxing in warm water as the resort’s bustle dies down outside. In the morning, a nutritious breakfast awaits to give you energy for another day, whether you spend it at the chessboard or on a mountain trail.

Practical information – FAQ

When is the 2026 Rubinstein Chess Festival taking place?

From 14 to 23 August 2026 in Polanica-Zdrój. You will find the festival office at the Spa Theatre (ul. Parkowa 2). The current program and announcements are available on the organiser’s official website, rubinstein.dzszach.pl.

Can amateurs take part in the festival?

Yes. The competitions are divided into numerous groups according to rating and age, from grandmasters to children and seniors. This is one of the reasons why the festival attracts such a wide range of participants.

What can you do in Polanica besides play chess?

Plenty. The Spa Park, pump room and promenade are in the centre of the resort, while the attractions of the Kłodzko Valley are just a short trip away: the Errant Rocks, the Bear Cave and the fortress in Kłodzko.

Where is the best place to stay?

The most convenient option is a hotel that offers a relaxation area in addition to comfortable rooms. A swimming pool and wellness facilities allow you to unwind after a full day, while a peaceful setting guarantees restorative sleep before the next rounds or excursions.

Plan your chess weekend in Polanica

The Rubinstein Festival is a rare combination of sporting prestige, history and a spa atmosphere. There are not many events like it. Arrange good accommodation, and let the excitement at the chessboard and walks through one of Poland’s most beautiful resorts take care of the rest. Check out our offers and promotions and plan your chess weekend in Polanica.