2026 Arkansas Open takes place from May 22-24, 2026 in Fairfield Bay, Arkansas, USA. This is a chess tournament in Fairfield Bay, Arkansas, USA, in 2026. The event offers a flexible over-the-board chess tournament format with one main section, two schedule options, and six rounds over the weekend. Fairfield Bay Conference Center hosts the competition, and the tournament features a confirmed cash prize fund of USD 2,700 based on 50 participants.

Moreover, this chess tournament in Fairfield Bay gives players a practical choice between a full three-day schedule and a shorter two-day schedule. The 2026 Arkansas Open combines a strong classical chess tournament structure, clear prize categories, and convenient on-site hotel access in one weekend event. In addition, all players compete in the same section while prizes are awarded by overall finish and rating performance. As a result, this chess event in Fairfield Bay is a strong option for ambitious club players, improving juniors, and experienced competitors who want a serious Memorial Day weekend event in Arkansas.

🗓️ Event Details

🏆 Prize Fund

The confirmed cash prize fund totals $2,700 based on 50 participants.

In addition, unrated players may win only the U1200 prize. Players must also play the last round to remain eligible for 1st, 2nd, or 3rd overall.

⏱️ Time Control & Pairings

The tournament uses a 6-round Swiss system and gives players two different schedule options. First, the 3-day schedule uses Game in 90 minutes with a 30-second increment from move one for all rounds. Meanwhile, the 2-day schedule uses Game in 60 minutes with a 5-second delay for rounds 1 and 2, and then those players merge into the main schedule for the remaining rounds at Game in 90 minutes with a 30-second increment.

In addition, US Chess rules apply throughout the event. Each player may request up to two half-point byes, but those byes must be declared by round 4. The tournament director may also use accelerated pairings when appropriate.

📂 Sections / Groups

The tournament is played as one main open section. However, the organizer awards prizes by overall standing and by rating category.

📅 Schedule

📝 Registration

👥 Organizer

Arkansas Chess Association organizes this annual state open and continues to support competitive rated chess throughout Arkansas. In addition, the organizer manages player registration, tournament operations, and event communication for the full weekend in Fairfield Bay.

• Address: Fairfield Bay Conference Center, 110 Lost Creek Parkway, Fairfield Bay, AR 72088, USA

• Email: arkansaschess@gmail.com

• Phone: +1 870-688-6423

• Website: https://caissachess.net/online-registration/index/8185

🏨 Venue

Fairfield Bay Conference Center, 110 Lost Creek Parkway, Fairfield Bay, AR 72088, USA

The tournament takes place at the Fairfield Bay Conference Center in a resort setting that supports the full weekend schedule. Moreover, the playing site is directly connected to the accommodation option offered for chess players, which makes the event especially convenient for out-of-town participants.

🛎️ Accommodation

Cobblestone Inn & Suites in Fairfield Bay offers a discounted tournament rate of $95 per night plus tax for either a single king room or a double queen room. Players must book by May 8 to receive that rate.

In addition, the hotel is at the same location as the tournament venue. Any player who reserves at least two nights at Cobblestone Inn & Suites receives a free coupon for unlimited bowling, mini golf, hiking trail access, tennis, and pickleball, plus a 10% discount on meals at the Bowling Alley Grill, Bayside, and Little Red Restaurants, excluding alcohol purchases.

🚗 How to Get There

Players can travel to Fairfield Bay by road and then continue directly to the conference center. In addition, staying at the on-site hotel makes the event easy to manage throughout the weekend because the playing hall and accommodation are in the same location.

🧾 Other

Parents may take pictures during the first few minutes at the start of each round. However, no spectators may remain in the playing area after that point.

Enjoy a flexible Memorial Day weekend tournament in Fairfield Bay and compete in a well-structured Arkansas chess open with strong prize categories and convenient on-site lodging.