The National Open, held during the prestigious Las Vegas International Chess Festival, stands as one of the most iconic and competitive chess tournaments in North America. Looking ahead to the National Open – Las Vegas International Chess Festival 2025, this annual event transforms Las Vegas into a global hub for chess lovers by combining elite tournament play, beginner-friendly competitions, youth activities, lectures, and special events. In 2025, this exciting chess festival promises another exciting year of chess activities. Players and families enjoy an unparalleled chess experience in the vibrant, exciting environment of the Las Vegas Strip. With its generous prize fund, outstanding organization, and festive atmosphere, the National Open truly lives up to its title as “The Chess Vacation of the Year.”

📅 Tournament Dates

The tournament will take place from June 4 to June 8, 2025, at the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, located at 3555 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109. The National Open – Las Vegas International Chess Festival 2025 will surely be an event to remember.

⏱️ Time Control & Format

Organizers will run a Swiss-system tournament. The Open Section will feature 9 rounds with a time control of G/90 + 30. All other sections will play 7 rounds, using the same or slightly faster formats depending on the chosen schedule. Beginners will play shorter games at G/25 + 5, ensuring a fun and dynamic tournament for all skill levels during the National Open – Las Vegas International Chess Festival 2025.

📘 Schedule Highlights

The festival opens on Wednesday, June 4, with on-site registration and the first round of the five-day schedule.
Players will continue rounds throughout Thursday and Friday, which also feature Grandmaster lectures and a Youth Blitz Tournament.
On Saturday, June 7, participants will play rounds six and seven and may enter the famous Walter Browne Memorial Blitz.
The final day, Sunday, June 8, concludes with rounds eight and nine, followed by a prize ceremony celebrating the winners and special achievements.

🏆 Prize Fund & Awards

The event offers a guaranteed prize fund of $125,000, spread across multiple rating sections to reward excellence at every level.

The Open Section awards $10,000 to the champion, followed by $5,000 for second place and $2,500 for third.
Under sections such as U2300, U2100, U1900, U1700, U1500, and U1250 offer top prizes ranging from $7,000 to $2,400.
The Beginners Section includes daily and overall awards, with prize amounts of $300, $200, and $100 for daily performance, and $400, $300, and $200 for best overall standings.
Special prizes include a Mixed Doubles Team Award of $1,500, a $50 gift certificate bonus for any player who finishes with a plus score, and the youth-focused “Freddie Award” for best games played by children aged 14 and under.

📝 Registration & Participation

Participants can register online or by mail.
Entry fees vary depending on the section and registration date. For the Open and Under Sections, fees are $249 by April 30, $269 by May 26, and $289 afterward.
Players entering sections for which they are significantly underrated must pay a $100 play-up fee. Those rated below 2200 USCF or 2100 FIDE who wish to enter the Open must pay an additional $200.
The Beginners Section offers a three-tiered structure: 1-day play for $129, 2-day for $189, and 3-day for $229, with a late fee of $31 for entries after May 26.
Discounts include a $50 loyalty discount for returning players by January 31, a $40 senior discount (age 65+) before May 26, and free entry for GMs, WGMs, and foreign IMs who register before May 26. IMs and WIMs receive a $60 discount if they register early.
All mailed registrations must go to: Vegas Chess Festivals, PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009.
For questions or assistance, players may contact (702) 930-9550 or vegaschess@gmail.com.

🏨 Venue & Accommodation

The Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino will host the entire event.
Participants can book rooms at special festival rates: $89 per night for weekdays and $155 for Friday and Saturday nights. The resort fee is reduced to $15 per day instead of the standard $45.30. These rates remain available until May 18, 2025, or until rooms sell out.
Players can call (888) 373-9855 and mention the “INTERNATIONAL CHESS” group when booking.

✈️ Travel & Transportation

Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), formerly McCarran International, serves as the nearest airport—only a 10-minute ride from the venue.
Taxis, rideshare options like Uber and Lyft, as well as affordable public transit, provide convenient ways to reach the hotel. Car rentals are also available at the airport for those who prefer to drive.

👥 Organizer Information

Vegas Chess Festivals, LLC organizes and manages the entire event.
Their mailing address is PO Box 90925, Henderson, NV 89009.
You may reach them at (702) 930-9550 or via email at vegaschess@gmail.com.

🎉 Why You Should Attend

The National Open in Las Vegas offers more than just a high-stakes chess tournament—it creates an experience. It brings players and families from across the country and around the world into a vibrant, engaging, and competitive environment during this Chess Festival. With an unmatched prize fund, flexible schedules, top-level conditions, and the excitement of Las Vegas at your doorstep, this event remains a must-play for any serious or aspiring chess player. Whether you’re chasing trophies or just love the game, the National Open delivers unforgettable chess memories every year.

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