A Concept That Works
The Festival Series was born in Bratislava in 2021, built on a simple yet strong formula: affordable buy-ins, a rich selection of mixed games, and a strong emphasis on community and experiences beyond the tables. Besides the classic NLH, players can enjoy tournaments like T.O.R.S.E.S, 8-Game, OFC, and Sviten Special, as well as blackjack, roulette, slot competitions, sportsbook contests, and popular hospitality events.
This combination has turned the 'Festival' into a series that attracts recreational grinders, mixed-game enthusiasts, and regulars seeking not just grind but also an atmosphere and community where everyone knows your name. This was evident at the recently concluded Bratislava stop, where Polish player Sebastian Kotowicz achieved an impressive feat – claiming a back-to-back title in the Main Event for €78,100 after his 2024 victory!
Bratislava Opens the Season, with Rozvadov and Malta Still on the List
During the Bratislava stop, organizers revealed their plans for 2026, which will begin where 2025 ended - Banco Bratislava. From February 23 to March 1, the sixth edition of The Festival Series will take place in the Slovak capital, now seen as the 'home game' stop of the entire tour. The newly revamped Banco, transformed into a pure poker club without the usual casino games, offers the perfect setting for a week filled with tournaments, cash games, mixed games, and accompanying events.
In 2026, the series will return to familiar destinations where players have already experienced its unique atmosphere. In June (9th-15th), The Festival Series returns to one of Europe's most iconic poker locations – King’s Resort Rozvadov. This will be the third full Festival Series held here, and King's Resort chief Federico Brunato emphasizes that the local team sees Franke's Festival as a unique series combining quality poker, hospitality, and a laid-back vibe – aiming to break more records in 2026.
After Rozvadov, the series heads north for The Festival Weekend Tallinn (July 1st-5th). This shorter July warm-up offers a few days of faster-paced tournaments and a glimpse of what awaits players with the major autumn return of The Festival Series to the Estonian capital. Summer Tallinn blends historic charm with modern casino facilities and a vibrant local community, making it an ideal spot for an extended poker weekend.
In mid-September (14th-20th), the series returns to Malta, specifically to Portomaso Casino in St. Julian’s. Malta has become a staple stop for The Festival Series, each edition growing in player numbers and prestige. The Mediterranean climate, the sea, promenade restaurants, and a packed tournament schedule make this stop a perfect blend of holiday and poker festival for many players.
New Additions – Vilnius, Riga, and a Grand Return to Tallinn
At the end of May, the series will make its debut in Lithuania. Vilnius will host The Festival Weekend – a shorter, four-day format with a packed schedule from start to finish. New to the 2026 calendar is The Festival Weekend Riga. Latvia's capital, known for its vibrant nightlife, excellent cuisine, and welcoming casino environment, is a logical addition to the Baltic expansion. The 'Weekend' format means a compact schedule with action every day – ideal for players looking for a poker trip without needing a longer vacation.
The highlight of 2026 will be a full-fledged return of The Festival Series to Tallinn. The last time the Estonian capital hosted the series was in 2022, only the second major Festival in its history – making it a beloved stop for organizers and players alike. Nine days full of poker, casino games, and side activities at Olympic Park Casino will close the season in the style players expect from The Festival Series.
Online Action in Collaboration with iPoker
The live festivals will be complemented throughout 2026 by exciting online action, courtesy of the iPoker Network. Two festivals are lined up for players - The Festival Online Spring (April) and The Festival Online Autumn (October). The online edition is the perfect opportunity for players to explore less familiar variants or simply stay connected with the community between live stops. Join the action through ChampionPoker, one of the largest on the iPoker network!
Register Now
From 'hometown' Bratislava to iconic Rozvadov, sunny Malta, and returning to Tallinn, with new stops in Vilnius and Riga – 2026 will be the richest year in The Festival Series history. Nine events, a mix of Main Series, Weekend stops, and two online editions give players of all levels ample opportunities to experience what made this series a phenomenon: poker, casino games, sports betting, hospitality events, and a community that keeps coming back year after year.
