It is one of the oldest event of its kind in Slovakia ,established in 2002
SAHARA is visited by more than 10.000 viewers every year
SAHARA – is meeting of owners of military historic
vehicles and clubs of military history on Slovakia and the most important military event of
the year on sand. Every year it takes place in military area on ‘‘Zahorie’’ which is very
similar to a Sahara desert. And because of that specialization of the
terrain we called it SAHARA.
SAHARA – is always organized at the end of August, because during these days we
commemorate the anniversary and tradition of one of Europe's largest anti-Nazi resistance
appearances - the Slovak National Uprising. Organizers of SAHARA usually take inspiration
and philosophy of their activities from this historical milestone of the Slovak past.
SAHARA – is an event worth attending. It is one of the most unique events of this kind
in Europe - and the biggest and most significant in the Slovak republic.
SAHARA – is an event mainly focused on military history and military technology of the 20th century. In the beginning, it was a meeting allowing a community of veterans to present civil and military veteran cars and provide competitive rides with them. Nowadays, it is also possible to take part in interestingly prepared races for vehicles that run in demanding sandy terrain. As part of the races, competitors can try their vehicle in these extreme conditions and compete among themselves in several categories. Every contest is evaluated and successful contestants are rewarded with valuable prizes. In addition to the exhibition of military historical technologies, competitions, and defiles, the combat demonstrations directed by military historical clubs, mostly on the topic of World War II and the Slovak National Uprising, are also an important part of the program. Events of post-war history (the Czechoslovak People's Army - ČSLA) are also presented. Nowadays, Military Technical and Testing Institute Záhorie provides a display of their activities.
SAHARA – is a free time cultural event for the general public aimed at protection and development of historical and cultural heritage with a focus on a military history. This event is not only attended by a laic public, but also by enthusiasts of military technical equipment or military in general, and supporters of military-historical issues. There are a few events of this kind, but SAHARA distinguishes itself mainly by its effort to popularize the military history of Slovakia and to disseminate awareness of the history of wars and armed conflicts, the development of the army, weapons, and other military machines. In addition to the educational and cultural mission, the SAHARA event gradually developed into a bearer of military traditions and promoter of military history, linked to the period of World War II and the Slovak National Uprising.
Price List
€ 10
Free*
€ 15
€ 5
€ 2
€ 20
*Reenactors will be provided with meals during the main program and ammunition for the demonstrations. A MANDATORY participation in the demonstrations is a condition for free entry.
SAHARA Slovakia is located between the town of Senica and the village of Jablonica. Click on the links below to navigate directly to the event location using your preferred navigation app. We look forward to your participation!
Friday – 23.08.2024
Number of Buses:Saturday – 24.08.2024
Number of Buses:By purchasing a ticket, a contractual relationship is established between the ticket holder and the organizer of the SAHARA event. For this reason, the ticket holder is required to adhere to the MANDATORY RULES, INSTRUCTIONS FROM THE ORGANIZER AND THE ORGANIZING SERVICE in the event area. The organizer is not responsible for damages to property and health of visitors caused by unlawful or inappropriate behavior of the ticket holder or other present persons. For the protection of visitors and other individuals involved in the event, the ticket holder must present a valid ID and ticket upon request by the organizing service. The organizer reserves the right to record the SAHARA event. If photographs or other recordings are made during or in connection with the event, the ticket holder consents to their use without financial compensation.
For all those who will be part of the Sahara Slovakia 2024 event and plan to spend more than 24 hours in
the VTSÚ Záhorie military area, registration is mandatory.
This requirement applies only to reenactors and participants.
PARTICIPANT: Attends the event, sets up their own historical camp / uses opportunities
for free rides, etc.
REENACTMENT: A "Participant" who also takes part in battle demonstrations.
VISITORS are welcome to enjoy the program on August 23rd and 24th (registration is not
required).
The main program of SAHARA 2024 will take place on Saturday, August 24, 2024.
Friday – 23.08.2024
07:00 – 08:30 Participant registration for Rally SAHARA
08:30 – 09:00 Briefing before the start of Rally SAHARA
09:00 – 09:30 Vehicle lineup
09:30 – 15:00 Start of Rally SAHARA and free rides
15:00 – 16:00 Preparation for WWII battle reenactments
16:00 – 19:00 Free rides
20:00 Free entertainment with music
09:00 – 16:00 Tours of period war camps and historical equipment
Note: Learn more about the Rally HERE.
Saturday – 24.08.2024
08:00 – 11:00 Tours of period war camps and historical equipment
11:00 – 12:00 WWII battle reenactment – SNP
12:00 – 12:30 Fire Brigade activity presentation
12:30 – 13:00 Presentation of current military equipment
13:30 – 15:00 Equipment parade
15:30 – 16:30 WWII battle reenactment – Bratislava-Brno Operation
19:00 – 20:00 Event and competition awards
20:00 Free entertainment
21:00 SAHARA 2024 Surprise
Note: Free rides of military equipment are strictly prohibited during battle reenactments!
Free rides on Saturday (24.08.2024) are allowed only in a limited mode!
We recommend that all pet owners do not bring their pets to the event, as sound effects may seriously damage their hearing. Conditions for entry into the military area are available HERE. A strict ban on the use of any unmanned reconnaissance devices, drones, etc. applies throughout the area of the Záhorie Military District during the SAHARA 2024 event. Violation of this ban may result in legal action and jeopardize the smooth and problem-free course of the event.
