Chess Tournaments in New York City
Find official USCF- and FIDE-rated tournaments across NYC — from weekly club events to major opens, scholastic competitions, and national championships.
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Upcoming Tournaments
USCF- and FIDE-rated tournaments most days of the week across all formats and skill levels. The main hub for competitive chess in NYC since 1915.
Weekly Tuesday night USCF Blitz Grand Prix at GM Maxim Dlugy's West Village academy. Nine rounds of G/3+2, starting at 6:30 PM. Max 64 players.
Monthly weekend Swiss events with multiple concurrent sections — U1800, U2400, and Open. Classical G/90+30 time control. Members only.
Manhattan
Elite & Invitational Events
High-level events with rating or membership requirements. Listed for awareness — most players attend as spectators or work toward qualifying over time.
One of NYC's most prestigious local titles, held annually since 1918. Historically restricted to members rated 2100+, titled players, and championship qualifiers; 7-round classical Swiss typically held in December. Exact 2026 eligibility and dates to be confirmed by Marshall.
Manhattan
Invitational norm tournaments at the Marshall, run twice a year by NYC Chess Norms. One of the few recurring opportunities in NYC to earn GM or IM norms. Three sections: GM A, IM B, IM C. Next: Labor Day Invitational, Sep 3–7, 2026.
Manhattan
Open & Scholastic Events
Season-long scholastic league for grades 7–12: seven separate one-day tournaments (2 rounds each) held Sep–Apr, with per-date and season-long cash prizes. Varsity, Junior-Varsity, and Novice sections. Out-of-state welcome.
Manhattan (Upper West Side)
Iconic outdoor USCF-rated tournament series at Bryant Park. 7 sections by age and strength — K–1 beginners through Adults. All players play all rounds. Sets and boards provided. Most 2026 dates are at the Fountain Plaza; the Oct 4 date moves to the Upper Terrace.
6th Ave & W 41st St, Manhattan
Recurring Sunday scholastic tournament at GM Maxim Dlugy's Upper West Side location. Multiple sections from beginner to advanced. Free class at Chess Max included with entry.
Weekly scholastic Friday tournament during the school year at Columbia Grammar & Preparatory School, Upper West Side. Organized by Little House of Chess. K–12, all sections. 2026–27 season dates not yet announced — page currently reflects the 2025–26 schedule.
Manhattan
Weekly USCF-rated Friday night events in Brooklyn. 3-round Robin format, G/25+5, starting at 6:50 PM. Space is limited to 28 players — advance registration required.
Official NY State Championship event for girls born after Nov 2006. 2-Day Championship sections (6 rounds) and 1-Day sections (5 rounds). Presented jointly by Little House of Chess and Chess Center of New York. Out-of-state welcome.
Manhattan (Upper West Side) · some sections may be at 36 W 93rd or 5 W 93rd
New to Rated Chess?
What you need to know
- USCF membership is required for all USCF-rated events. Join online or on-site at the Marshall Club. Fees: $24/yr youth · $33/yr young adult · $54/yr adult · $48/yr senior.
- FIDE ID is required for FIDE-rated events only. The Marshall will register you free for your first FIDE event.
- Arrive early — most tournaments close registration 15–30 minutes before Round 1.
- Have fun, be respectful, and review the tournament rules in advance.
Organizing a Tournament?
Help the NYC chess community by submitting your tournament to be listed on Chess in NY.