November is a BIG month for chess! Along with our regular club tournaments and casual games, we’re gearing up for one of the biggest chess events of the year — the 61st American Open Chess Championship!
Whether you’re preparing for the American Open, looking for rated tournament experience, or simply want to enjoy some over-the-board chess, there are plenty of opportunities to play this month.
SPECIAL EVENT: 61st American Open Chess Championship | November 23–29
Join us Thanksgiving week at the Hyatt Regency Orange County in Garden Grove for multiple days of chess, competition, and excitement!
The American Open welcomes chess players of all ages and skill levels, with multiple tournament schedules and exciting side events. You don’t have to compete in the Main Tournament to be part of the experience!
Main Tournament | November 26–29
Compete in one of the longest-running chess championships in the country, featuring a $40,000 prize fund, multiple rating sections, and flexible three-, and four-day schedules.
Scholastic Tournaments | November 27, 28, 29
Young players in grades K–12 can join the excitement with Novice, Junior Varsity, and Varsity tournaments, featuring individual and team trophies.
Special Side Events – Something for Everyone!
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Tournament | Mon-Tues, Nov. 23–24 | A new addition to the American Open! Presented by Kings for Cure, this four-round, two-day tournament welcomes players ages 50 and above, with cash prizes and special awards. |
| Chess Camp | Mon-Wed, Nov. 23–25 at 10 am – 3 pm | Three days of chess instruction, practice games, and tournament preparation for K–12 players, from 10 AM to 3 PM daily. |
| Challenge a Grandmaster | Friday, Nov. 27 at 6:45 pm | Ever dreamed of playing against a Grandmaster? Here’s your chance! Challenge GM Ehsan, known for his world-record simultaneous chess exhibition, in this exciting opportunity to play against a world-class chess player. |
| Grandmaster Lectures | Saturday, Nov. 28 at 2 – 3:30 pm Sunday, Nov. 29 at 2 – 3:30 pm | Learn from experienced coach and Grandmaster Melik Khachiyan who is 8-time American Open Champion and US Women’s Team coach as he shares chess knowledge, strategies, and insights to help improve your game. |
| Blitz Tournament | Saturday, Nov. 28 at 9:30 PM | Love fast-paced chess? Join the Saturday night Blitz Tournament for five rounds of double-Swiss competition at a 5-minute time control. |
| Action Tournament | Sunday, Nov. 29 at 12 PM | Short on time? Enjoy five rounds of rated chess in one afternoon with a Game/30, 5-second delay time control. |
Whether you’re playing, learning from a Grandmaster, or cheering on fellow chess enthusiasts, there’s something for everyone at the American Open!
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this annual chess tradition! Register early to secure your spot in your favorite events.
View All American Open Events & Register
Regular Chess Club Schedule
A. Wednesday Knights – Special November & December Combined Tournament (6 Rounds!)
This year, we’re combining November and December into one SIX-ROUND Wednesday Knights Tournament!
Enjoy classical time controls with one rated game each Wednesday evening during the first three Wednesdays of November and December.
Round Schedule:
- November 4, 11, and 18
- December 2, 9, and 16
Video Lecture: 6:00 PM – 6:50 PM
Rounds Start: Wednesdays 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: $35 ($40 for first time club players)
This extended tournament is a great opportunity to enjoy longer games, practice your strategy, and build your tournament experience.
Register for Wednesday Knights
B. Saturday Open Tournaments
Get ready for the American Open with our weekly US Chess-rated Saturday tournaments!
November Dates: November 7, 14, and 21
Challenge fellow chess players, sharpen your skills, and gain valuable over-the-board tournament experience.
Round 1: 11:00 AM
Entry Fee: $30 per day (discounted rates for chess club members)
Saturday Open Tournament Details
C. Scholastic Tournaments – November 27–29 at the American Open!
Calling all Kindergarten through 12th Grade chess players!
Instead of our regular monthly scholastic event, we’re inviting young players to participate in the American Open Scholastic Tournaments this Thanksgiving weekend!
Choose from Novice, Junior Varsity, or Varsity competitions depending on your experience and playing level.
With individual and team trophies up for grabs, this is a wonderful chance to represent your school or chess club and be part of a major championship!
Scholastic Tournament Details & Registration
D. Casual Open Play – Thursdays & Fridays
Looking for more OTB (over-the-board) practice without the pressure of a tournament?
Join our Casual Open Play nights! Meet fellow chess enthusiasts, try out new openings, or simply enjoy casual games.
Days: Thursdays and Fridays
Start Time: 6:00 PM
Entry: FREE for ChessPalace members / $10 for non-members
All ages and skill levels welcome. Walk-ins are welcome!
No Open Play on Thursday 11/26 and Friday 11/27
Make Your November Moves Count!
Use the first few weeks of November to practice at ChessPalace, then join us for an unforgettable Thanksgiving week at the 61st American Open!
Whether you’re competing for a championship, experiencing your first tournament, or meeting your favorite Grandmasters, November is the perfect time to be part of the chess community.
See you at the board!
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