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Exploring The Festival Series with Shawn Grigus: Poker, Hospitality & Fun!

Exploring The Festival Series with Shawn Grigus: Poker, Hospitality & Fun!

The Festival Series Bratislava is around the corner, offering an exciting mix of tournaments and activities that let players experience local culture while competing. A good month ago, we landed on Malta's beautiful and historic island, where players got to explore the island’s sights and flavours in between the poker action. One of those drawn to this Mediterranean event was Shawn Grigus, a passionate poker player and podcast host from Pennsylvania, USA.

We met up with Shawn at the Farsons Beer Brewery, where he shared his thoughts on our event, his podcast, and his journey to The Festival Series. Here’s what Shawn had to say:


The Festival Series: "Hi there, guys! Welcome back to The Festival Series here in Malta. We’re at a new location—the CISK Brewery. We just had a tour, and Shawn, all the way from Pennsylvania, USA, has joined us here in Malta. How’s it going, Shawn?"

Shawn: “Wonderful! Thank you. Yes, I’m doing great.”

The Festival Series: "Did you enjoy the tour?"

Shawn: “Very much! It was a wonderful tour. We got to try some local beers, just a few small ones.”

The Festival Series: "Is this your first time attending The Festival Series? How did you find your way to Malta from the US for this event?"

Shawn: *“Yes, it’s my first time here at The Festival Series. My co-host, Martin Smith, really spreads the word about this event. I host a podcast called *Poker: All the Games* with a co-host from Gozo, an island just west of here. He encouraged me to visit, and he said this would be the perfect time with The Festival Series happening in Malta.”*

The Festival Series: "You actually had Franke on your podcast, right?"

Shawn: “Yes, we did—he was on one of the episodes. He’s a wonderful character, and he really adds a lot to our show.”

The Festival Series: "Character is the word for him! So, it’s you and Martin Smith, correct? Martin is a local, living here in Malta, and he’s also made a mark in poker with his writing."

Shawn: “Yes, that’s right. Martin is a local, and he’s written a book about Pot-Limit Omaha, which is his specialty. But I wouldn’t suggest playing against him in that game if you’re here!”

The Festival Series: "That’s good to know! So, the podcast you and Martin have together is focused on mixed games. Martin’s specialty is PLO—do you have any other preferred games?"

Shawn: “Yes, I really enjoy draw games, especially Deuce to Seven Triple Draw. That’s my game!”

The Festival Series: "Are there any specific events you’re focusing on in the schedule here?"

Shawn: “Definitely the HORSE event. In the States, HORSE is popular, but here they add an extra ‘S’ for Sviten Special, which makes it unique. The Eight-Game Mix is also one of my favourites.”

The Festival Series: "Looking forward to catching you at more hospitality events and, of course, by the tables! For those interested in listening to your podcast, what’s it called and where can they find it?"

Shawn: *“The podcast is called *Poker: All the Games, and you can find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Substack, which is our main platform.”

The Festival Series: "Thank you, Shawn, and best of luck at the tables!"

Shawn: “Thank you! Salut!”


A Unique Mix of Poker and Culture at The Festival Series

Shawn Grigus’s experience highlights the international appeal of The Festival Series. Bringing players together from all around the world, the event combines the thrill of poker tournaments with cultural activities that let players explore the host location. In Malta, this included a guided tour of the Farsons Beer Brewery, where participants of the hospitality events sampled local brews and bonded with fellow players over shared interests.

The series’ mixed-game tournaments are especially popular among players like Shawn, who enjoy a variety of poker formats. As Shawn pointed out, the Malta edition of HORSES included an extra game, giving the event a regional twist. The Festival Series also features hospitality events and side activities, encouraging players to explore Malta’s rich history, beautiful landscapes, and exciting food scene.

Shawn’s trip to Malta for the event was even more special thanks to the connections he’s built in the poker community. His podcast, Poker: All the Games, co-hosted by Malta-based Martin Smith, dives into different poker formats with a focus on mixed games. The podcast’s charm lies not only in its exploration of these formats but also in the friendly and fun banter between Shawn and Martin.

Upcoming Festival Series in Bratislava

For anyone who missed the Malta event, there’s good news: The Festival Series will be heading to Bratislava from November 18-24, as you all might know by now.

Players can qualify for the Bratislava event by playing online satellites through various platforms, offering a shot at tournament play alongside exciting local events. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the world of mixed games, The Festival Series has something special for everyone.