12. – 13. 9. 2026
•
Bečov nad Teplou
International
Blacksmithing Symposium
Theme: My homeland
Where fire meets creativity and tradition modern craftsmanship
Every year, blacksmiths from all over the country and abroad gather in Bečov nad Teplou to showcase their art and bring blacksmithing closer to the public. The symposium is not just a craft event – it is a friendly gathering of people who share a passion for honest work, the creative process, and living traditions.
For blacksmiths, it is an opportunity to show off their skills, meet colleagues from the field, and gain new experiences and contacts. The atmosphere is open and non-competitive – everyone has the space to show their style and learn from others.
For visitors, a day full of experiences awaits. You will see fire, sparks, and the power of iron in the hands of masters. Blacksmiths will explain their techniques to you, and you will often have the opportunity to try some of the steps yourself. Children can pick up a hammer and take home a small product as a souvenir.
Bečov nad Teplou gives the whole event a unique character – the picturesque surroundings, culture, and hospitality of the region make the symposium an unforgettable experience. Music, the smell of fire, the taste of regional specialties, and the rhythm of hammers create an atmosphere that appeals to all the senses.
When iron sings and fire brings people together
History of the symposium
The story of the Blacksmith Symposium in Bečov nad Teplou began in 2008, when blacksmith Mr.
The early years (2008–2017)
Mr. Rudolf was the soul of the symposium throughout its first decade. He organized the participants, prepared the program, and gradually turned a small local event into a tradition that blacksmiths and visitors from far and wide looked forward to.
From the very beginning, the Svoboda family from the Hradní Bašta guesthouse played a major role. They provided accommodation, meals, parking, and technical facilities, and became the general partner of the event. Their support enabled the symposium to grow and created the friendly atmosphere that still accompanies it today.
A new era since 2018
The year 2018 brought a fundamental change – Mr. Rudolf handed over the management to the Svoboda family. The location changed – from the original address at Poštovní 39, the blacksmith’s work moved to the Hradní bašty parking lot, which offers more space and better conditions.
MKS Bečov nad Teplou
In the same year, the association MKS – International Blacksmithing Symposium was founded, when the Svoboda family approached Miroslav Rudolf (son of Ivo Rudolf from Vodná) and Jitka Rudolfová (mother of Miroslav Rudolf) to continue the symposium. Otherwise, the symposium would have ended. The association provided the event with a more solid organizational framework and opened the door to international participation.
Program 2026
The Blacksmithing Symposium in Bečov nad Teplou is not just about iron and fire – it is an all-day experience that combines the work of masters, art, and entertainment for the general public.
Every year, we prepare a varied program that brings a new theme and a new atmosphere. Whether you come as a participant – a blacksmith – or as a visitor, you can look forward to a day full of demonstrations, music, flavors, and experiences.
Saturday, September 12
9:00
Opening ceremony with cannon fire from the castle cannons
9:00 - 24:00
Examples of blacksmith teams' work on a given topic, each lasting 2–3 hours
9:00 - 24:00
Accompanying program for children and adults
10:00 - 17:00
Visitors' vote for the most attractive blacksmith's work
17:00 - 24:00
Live music on the terrace
20:00
Drawing for the most attractive blacksmithing work
Sunday, September 13
9:00 - 12:00
Joint blacksmithing, assembly, and product placement
12:00 - 13:00
Closing ceremony of the symposium
13:00
Thanks to the blacksmiths
13:00
Ending with cannon fire from the castle cannons
Information for the public
The blacksmithing symposium in Bečov nad Teplou is an experience that appeals to all the senses.
It is not just a gathering of blacksmiths, but an open cultural event attended by families with children, tourists, craft lovers, and people who simply want to have fun and spend a pleasant day.
What you will see and experience
The symposium will give you a glimpse into a world that is normally hidden behind the doors of a smithy. You will see with your own eyes how a piece of hard iron is transformed into a beautiful product in the hands of a blacksmith. Every blow of the hammer, every spark, and every dip into the fire is a small spectacle that will captivate adults and children alike.
- Live demonstrations of blacksmithing – from simple products to works of art.
- Collaborative creation – blacksmiths often join forces to work on a large piece, which is created right before the eyes of visitors.
- Opportunity to get involved – at some stations, you can try holding a hammer and striking a blow yourself.
Program for children and adults
From morning until midnight, you can enjoy a rich program that combines blacksmith demonstrations, workshops for children, exhibitions, and music. The following events are open to the public:
- Small blacksmithing workshop led by Vodní hamr Dobřív, where everyone can try working with metal and make a small souvenir (e.g., a nail, pendant, or simple metal product).
- Wire workshop for children with Ladislav Lokajíček, where children can try their hand at wire weaving and take home their own small decoration.
- Exhibition of blacksmithing works at the Poštovní 39 gallery. Visitors will vote for their favorite works, followed by a drawing. Visitors will vote for their favorite works, followed by a drawing for the most attractive blacksmithing work.
- Live music on the terrace, where bands will provide a pleasant atmosphere for sitting and entertainment in the afternoon and evening.
For children, it is a unique experience – the opportunity to “get a taste” of real fire and try something they have only known from fairy tales until now.
Music and culture
The symposium is not just about anvils and fire. During the day and evening, you can also enjoy musical and cultural performances.
- Live music on the terrace of the Hradní Bašta guesthouse.
- Evening gathering by the fire – when darkness falls, the blacksmiths continue their work by the light of the forges and spotlights.
Discover Bečov nad Teplou
If you come as a visitor, be sure not to miss Bečov nad Teplou itself. This picturesque town with a beautiful castle and chateau, famous mainly for the Reliquary of St. Maurus, is well worth a visit. The combination of history, culture, and craftsmanship makes a visit to Bečov a unique experience.
The symposium is a great opportunity to combine fun with discovering new places. Take a walk along the “In the Footsteps of Art and Metal I” trail.
Practical tips for visitors
- Admission: Usually voluntary, or specified before the event. Park at the Central parking lot (below the castle). It will take you 10 minutes to walk to the event venue at a leisurely pace.
- Time: We recommend arriving in the morning and staying until the evening – the program changes and every moment has its own charm.
In conclusion
If you are looking for an experience that combines craftsmanship, tradition, music, and a friendly atmosphere, then the Blacksmithing Symposium in Bečov nad Teplou is the right choice. It is a day when time stands still, when you can meet people who put their hearts into their work, and when you will experience something that will remain etched in your memory.
Whether you come alone, with family, or with friends, you can look forward to a unique day full of fire, sparks, and inspiration.
Trail in the footsteps
of art and metal I.
Trail in the footsteps
of art and metal II.
Information for blacksmiths
Be part of the Blacksmithing Symposium in Bečov nad Teplou – a unique event that brings together master craftsmen, young talents, and the public.
Every year, dozens of blacksmiths come to Bečov to showcase their art, share their experiences, and inspire not only visitors but also each other. The symposium is a place where tradition, creativity, and friendship come together.
Why register?
Participation in the Blacksmith Symposium offers you much more than just a chance to showcase your art:
- Presentation of your work to the general public – people have the opportunity to watch you at work and learn about all aspects of the blacksmith’s craft.
- The opportunity to share experiences – you will meet colleagues from different regions and countries, each with a different style and approach.
- Inspiration for further creation – new techniques, new ideas, new contacts.
- Joint projects – each year has its own theme, and blacksmiths work together to create a piece that remains as a permanent memorial.
- Community building – the symposium is not a competition, but an open meeting where anyone who wants to share their passion for iron and fire is welcome.
Conditions of participation
To make the blacksmiths’ work as comfortable as possible, we are preparing high-quality facilities for you at the Penzion Hradní Bašta guesthouse.
- Your own tools and equipment: we recommend that you bring the tools you normally use, including personal aids and protective equipment.
- Public presentation: blacksmithing is both an art and an experience – visitors expect not only results, but also the opportunity to watch the process itself.
- Registration: It is necessary to register using the registration form so that we can secure a place, accommodation, and technical facilities.
- Safety: we ask all participants to pay attention to their own safety and that of their colleagues, especially when working in the presence of the public.
Facilities for blacksmiths
Thanks to our cooperation with the Svobodová family and the Hradní Bašta guesthouse, you have access to:</ p>
- comfortable accommodation,
- meals throughout the day,
- space for parking and handling materials,
- evening lighting of workplaces, which allows you to continue working after dark,
- a friendly environment where you will feel at home.
Our goal is for every blacksmith to be able to fully concentrate on their work and enjoy the event to the fullest.
International meeting
Since 2018, the association MKS – International Blacksmithing Symposium Bečov nad Teplou association has been operating, thanks to which the event has moved to an international level. Every year, we welcome guests from abroad, which enriches the entire program and brings new ideas.
For you, as participants, it is an opportunity to learn about other traditions and styles and broaden your horizons.
An atmosphere you won’t experience anywhere else
The blacksmithing symposium is not just about work – it’s about meeting, sharing, and spending time together. In the evening, when the daylight fades, only the glow of the forges and the sound of hammers remain. Sitting together, listening to music, talking about craft and life – these are moments that participants remember long after.
How to register?
If you want to be part of the next edition, it’s simple:
- Fill out the registration form on our website.
- Indicate whether you need accommodation and what equipment you will bring with you.
- After confirming your registration, we will send you all further information.
In conclusion
If you are a blacksmith looking for a place where you can not only showcase your skills, but also recharge your batteries, find inspiration, and make new friends, then the Blacksmithing Symposium in Bečov nad Teplou is the right choice for you.
Join us and become part of a story where fire brings people together, iron is given new life, and traditions are passed on.
Frequently asked questions
When and where does the Blacksmithing Symposium take place?
The symposium is held annually in Bečov nad Teplou at the Hradní Bašta guesthouse. The exact date can always be found on our website and social media.
Do I have to pay an entrance fee?
Admission is usually voluntary. The amount of the contribution is up to you and helps cover the costs of organizing the event.
Is the event suitable for children?
Yes! The symposium is a family event. Special workshops (wirework, jewelry making, small blacksmithing) are prepared for children, where they can make their own souvenirs.
What can I take away from the event?
Visitors often take home a small item that they have made themselves in the workshop, or a souvenir purchased from blacksmiths and craftsmen. Above all, however, you will take away an unforgettable experience.
How can I register as a blacksmith?
Blacksmiths can register using the registration form on the website. After completing the form, you will receive confirmation of your participation and organizational instructions.
Do you provide accommodation for blacksmiths?
Yes, participants have the option of staying at the Hradní Bašta Guesthouse, which is our general partner. Accommodation, meals, and technical facilities are provided.
Can I try my hand at blacksmithing on site?
Yes, in a small blacksmith’s workshop, anyone can try their hand at simple hammering and make a small item. Of course, this is always done under the supervision of experienced blacksmiths.
Is there an accompanying program at the event?
Yes! In addition to blacksmith demonstrations, you can look forward to musical performances, a fair, workshops for children, and an evening drawing for the most attractive blacksmith work.
How do I get to the venue?
The event takes place in Bečov nad Teplou. Parking is available at the Hradní Bašta guesthouse. Bečov also has good train and bus connections.
Registration for blacksmiths
If you are a blacksmith and would like to register as a participant, please fill out the form below. This will allow us to prepare everything you need – from a workspace and accommodation to the program. When registering, please provide your contact details and indicate whether you need accommodation at the Hradní Bašta guesthouse.
Partners
Karlovarský kraj
Živý kraj
Město Bečov nad Teplou
MKS Bečov nad Teplou, z.s.
Kovářské společenstvo
