ChessKid has announced the inaugural ChessKid National Festival, happening across the Presidents’ Day weekend (February 16-19) in 2024. The multiple-day celebration will take place in Charlotte, North Carolina at the Charlotte Convention Center.

Chess fans of all ages will be able to enjoy the festivities and meet some of their chess heroes: IM Danny Rensch, IM Levy Rozman (GothamChess), and FM Mike Klein are among the confirmed guest stars appearing at the event.

The focus will be on family-friendly entertainment, with kids able to win prizes including medals, trophies, and merchandise by entering chess-related contests and competitions.

Events and attractions include the chance to connect with other chess fans and make new friends, tournaments, games for all skill levels (including beginners), meet-and-greets with chess celebrities such as GothamChess, as well as contests, puzzles, and other fun activities.

Competitive highlights of the ChessKid National Festival will include a Puzzle Challenge, Blitz Championship, Bughouse Championship, and a main event that will see kids of various ages and ratings compete in over-the-board play.

Main Event

• Five sections: K-5 Championship, K-5 Under 1200, K-3 Championship, K-3 Under 800, K-1 Championship
• Each player receives one hour per game, plus a 5-second increment per move
• Games may last up to 2 hours and 10 minutes
• All players receive medals, with trophies awarded to teams and individuals (top 10-20 depending on age/rating range)

Blitz Championship

• Two sections: K-5 and K-3
• Prizes: Trophies to the top 10 individuals and top 3 teams per section
• Five double rounds (10 games total), G/5 minute time control.

Bughouse Championship

• One section: K-5
• Prizes: Trophies to top 10 teams (two trophies per team)
• Five double rounds (10 games total), G/5 minute time control

When contacted about rumors of a dunk tank featuring himself, FM Mike Klein confirmed:

“I’ve given a lot to ChessKid and to chess kids over the last 10 years, and now I plan to give the only thing that I have not yet made available: my dignity. But fear not kids, I am starting my swim lessons next week.”

Standard entry tickets for the ChessKid National Festival are available for $99 USD, with VIP tickets (including a meet-and-greet with chess celebrities, VIP access to special events led by GothamChess, an invitation to a GM-led training camp prior to the festival, and more) available for $299. All VIPs will also receive a copy of Rozman’s new book with the chance to get it signed on-site. 

Tickets for the ChessKid National Festival are limited and are on sale now.

More information on ChessKid National Festival tickets and pricing (as well as detailed day-by-day schedules) can be found on ChessKid.com.