The First Chess Fest Armenia: A Major Cultural and Chess Event Set for October 2026
In an exciting announcement for chess enthusiasts and cultural fans alike, Yerevan, Armenia is set to host the inaugural Chess Fest Armenia in October 2026. This groundbreaking event will be a large-scale, open-air festival aimed at celebrating the game of chess and its impact on the Armenian community and the world. Under the patronage of Grandmaster Levon Aronian, a highly respected figure in chess, this festival is expected to attract chess-loving visitors from across the globe.
The festival promises to be a vibrant two-day affair, transforming public spaces and parks in Yerevan into lively venues filled with activities that celebrate strategy and creativity. Among the notable guests expected are Viswanathan Anand, a five-time World Chess Champion, and Judit Polgar, renowned as the strongest female chess player in history. Their presence and participation will certainly add a prestigious touch to the festivities, making it a unique gathering for fans and families.
Organized by MEDIACRAT Studio in conjunction with MATENA Business School and supported by the Municipality of Yerevan, Chess Fest Armenia will offer a wide range of activities. Attendees can expect to participate in simultaneous exhibition games, engage in concerts, and enjoy storytelling sessions that showcase the strategic art of chess. In addition, there will be interactive art installations that reflect the fusion of chess with culture and creativity, making the festival an immersive experience.
One key feature of the festival is the "Chess for Kids" zone, aimed at introducing younger generations to the game through fun and educational activities. This initiative reflects the Armenian belief that chess is not only a game but a medium for teaching discipline, creativity, and community bonding. As Grandmaster Levon Aronian stated, "Chess has always been more than a game for Armenians—it's a way we express creativity, discipline, and togetherness. Chess Fest Armenia is a celebration of that spirit, inviting everyone to experience the joy and imagination that the game inspires."
As preparations for this landmark event continue, more details regarding the festival's programming and sponsors will be disclosed on the official website www.armchessfest.com in early 2026. With a general producer and an independent organizing team, including the efforts of Vardges Hoveyan, the event is set to become a hallmark of chess culture in Armenia.
Attendees can look forward to a diverse array of activities that extend beyond traditional chess matches. From interactive exhibits to performances that integrate the rich cultural tapestry of Armenia, the Chess Fest will propose a comprehensive celebration of chess as an art form and a beloved pastime.
As the date for the event approaches, excitement is building, signaling that Chess Fest Armenia will not just be a chess competition, but a profound celebration of culture, creativity, and the powerful connection that chess fosters between individuals around the world. Yerevan is preparing to welcome both seasoned grandmasters and casual fans alike in a festival that promises to capture the hearts and minds of all who attend.