On September 30, the magical world of chess came alive once again: the youngest participants supported by the Csányi Foundation took part in the World Chess Festival, organized by Judit Polgár. This annual event welcomed families with a rich program, where strategic thinking, creativity, and the joy of playing came together.
At the Hungarian National Gallery and other festival venues, exciting activities, demonstrations, and challenges awaited participants throughout the day. Children explored the new Chess Palace adventure courses, learning to think and plan strategically with the figures Hopp Huszár and Vendi Vezér. In the handicraft chess-art workshop, everyone could create their own chess piece, improving both dexterity and imagination.
The festival also showcased the latest technologies: visitors could try chess-playing robots, explore the magical GoChess board, or use the newly launched Chess Palace App, now available at home. Fans of the digital world could try online chess variations, while Rubik Cube enthusiasts enjoyed the Make Your Move interactive space.
Throughout the day, colorful programs alternated: from the Pop-Chess experience game to competitions for kids, robot programming, improvisational theater, and even the Rubiksakk team tournament. A highlight of the festival was Judit Polgár’s online simultaneous exhibition, where players from six chess communities tested their skills against the legendary grandmaster.
At the Morgan Stanley stage, demonstrations, book signings, community games, and live chess matches followed one another. Participants experienced unique moments, such as matches between humans and robots, or the Polgár sisters involving the audience in a giant chess game.
Over twenty high school and university-aged Csányi Foundation supporters volunteered at the festival, welcoming guests, assisting with the smooth running of programs, and helping set up venues. Many of them are experienced volunteers, returning year after year to this special event.
The 11th Judit Polgár World Chess Festival once again proved that chess is much more than a game: it builds community, encourages thinking, and offers experiences for all ages. The Csányi Foundation’s young and older participants were once again part of this inspiring event, celebrating the versatility and power of chess. Thank you for letting us be there and celebrate the joy of chess together!
The three youngest groups
“This year, we also participated in the World Chess Festival, held at the National Gallery. Several university students helped with setup and organization, while the younger Csányi participants enjoyed the colorful programs as attendees. The high-level international event was equally exciting for both children and adults, with organizers showcasing many interesting forms of chess: invisible chess, chess boxing, simultaneous exhibitions, and even matches against robots. Attendees also had the opportunity to meet inspiring people, including chess masters, the Polgár sisters, and even Ernő Rubik for the keen-eyed. After a long but rewarding day, we returned home full of experiences.
As university volunteers, it is an honor and a rewarding feeling that we have been asked for years to assist in running such a high-level event. We take part in preparations and setup, as well as in executing the day-long program. Some of us assist the Polgár sisters directly to ensure their day runs smoothly, others help coordinate participants, welcome domestic and international VIP guests, supervise chess matches, or manage stage-related tasks. We feel that once again we fulfilled our roles successfully, while the world of chess became a little closer to us.”
Berta Fábián, university volunteer, Szeged Group 3
More photos in the Gallery