Public Events
Throughout the year, the Šance Fortification Visitor Centre organizes a variety of engaging events and activities for the public — from historical re-enactments and guided tours to interactive programs for children and schools.
The following events and activities are planned for 2026:
The Prussian Attack on Šance – The Capture of the Great Šance in 1741
This major historical re-enactment brings to life an episode that took place 285 years ago. In December 1740, during the First Silesian War, the Prussian King Frederick the Great invaded Silesia, then part of the Habsburg Monarchy. By early 1741, his troops had advanced into the Těšín region and approached the Great Šance fortification. On February 8, 1741, the Prussian army surrounded the fort. Facing overwhelming odds, the Austrian commander, Baron O’Reilly, decided to surrender.
Šancefest 2026 – History, Music, and Crafts at the Great Šance - www.sancefest.cz, FB
On 15 August 2026, the Great Šance fortification will once again host Šancefest, a traditional celebration of history, crafts, and local culture. This one-of-a-kind event takes place in a truly authentic historical setting – an atmosphere impossible to recreate anywhere else. The combination of history, landscape, and tradition gives Šancefest a unique regional and cultural significance. In 2026, the festival will expand with an additional family-friendly hiking event, “Come and Defend the Fort”, taking place on 20 June 2026. This interactive experience will guide participants through the fascinating 400-year story of the Great Šance, blending outdoor fun with history.
“The Mansfeld Troops Are Coming! Come and Defend the Fort” – A Family Adventure with History
On 20 June 2026, the Great Šance will host an exciting new event – an innovative combination of hiking, history, and education designed for families, school groups, and all lovers of adventure and local heritage.
Historical Lectures at the Great Šance – Discover the Past through Stories and Demonstrations
In 2026, the Great Šance Visitor Centre will host a series of engaging historical lectures dedicated to fascinating military and regional topics.
Guided Tours of the Fortifications
From May to September, the Great Šance fortifications will be open to the public for scheduled guided tours.
Military Training Reenactment – Napoleonic Drills at the Great Šance
On 1–2 August 2026, the Great Šance will become a historical training ground set in the Napoleonic era.
Kites at the Great Šance – Autumn Family Event
In autumn 2026, most likely on 5 September 2026 (or another Saturday in September or October depending on weather), the Great Šance fortifications will host the second annual kite festival. This family-friendly event is designed especially for children and parents, offering a relaxed and creative afternoon in the historic surroundings of the fortress.
Playful Morning – Interactive Program for Primary Schools
In June and October 2026, the Great Šance Visitor Centre will host a series of interactive educational mornings for pupils of local primary schools, accompanied by their teachers.
History at the Great Šance – Educational Program for Schools
Throughout the school year, the Great Šance Fortification Visitor Centre offers guided educational tours designed for pupils as part of their history and civics curriculum.
Exhibition in the Ditch – Summer Display at the Great Šance
Throughout the summer season 2026, the ditch surrounding the Great Šance fortifications will host a special outdoor exhibition.
