2026 Castle Chess Grand Prix will take place on June 26-28, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. This is a chess tournament in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, in 2026, and it offers a 5-round weekend Swiss with a strong $12,000 guaranteed prize fund at Emory University’s Emory Student Center.

Unlike a single open section, 2026 Castle Chess Grand Prix divides the field into seven rating-based groups, so it suits masters, experts, class players, juniors, and unrated competitors alike. Moreover, the event gives players a choice between a 3-day schedule and a 2-day schedule, which makes it flexible for both local and out-of-town participants.

The tournament also stands out because it combines a major prize fund, a practical university venue, and clear registration rules. In addition, the Atlanta location gives players straightforward access to the campus, nearby hotels, and airport connections, so the event remains an attractive summer option on the US weekend chess calendar.

📌 Event Details

🏆 Prize Fund

The confirmed guaranteed prize fund for 2026 Castle Chess Grand Prix is USD 12,000. Therefore, the event offers strong cash incentives across all seven sections, while the top section also awards 80 US Chess Grand Prix points.

⏰ Time Control & Pairings

The tournament uses a 5-round Swiss format. The main time control is Game in 90 minutes with a 10-second increment, while the 2-day schedule uses Game in 60 minutes with a 10-second increment for Round 1 before merging into the regular timetable.

Players may request up to two half-point byes if they commit before the first round. However, byes requested during the tournament score zero points. The event also applies a strict 100-point play-up rule, so players may move up only if their rating is within 100 points of the next section cutoff.

📂 Sections / Groups

🗓️ Schedule

📝 Registration

👤 Organizer

Castle Chess organizes the Grand Prix and manages tournament registration, re-entry, and player communication through its official website. Moreover, the event follows clear operational rules, which helps players plan their weekend schedule with confidence.

• Email: tournament@castlechess.org
• Website: https://castlechess.org/grandprix/

📍 Venue

Emory University – Emory Student Center, 605 Asbury Circle, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA

The Emory Student Center serves as the official playing venue for 2026 Castle Chess Grand Prix. The building sits on Emory University’s campus and gives the event a practical university setting with direct visitor access from nearby parking and drop-off points.

🏨 Accommodation

The official Castle Chess location information lists several hotel options close to Emory University. Therefore, out-of-town players can stay near the venue and keep their daily travel simple during the tournament weekend.

🚗 How to Get There

Emory University is about 15 minutes from downtown Atlanta and about 30 minutes from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. Most drivers park at the Peavine Visitor Parking Lot or Peavine Parking Deck, and weekend parking is typically free. In addition, the Emory Transit Hub gives public-transport riders a practical way to reach the Student Center, while rideshare drop-off points near Eagle Row and Means Drive make arrival even easier.

2026 Castle Chess Grand Prix is a strong choice for players who want a major weekend event, a guaranteed prize fund, and a well-organized competitive atmosphere in Atlanta.