The 2026 Southern California Open Chess Tournament Returns to Glendale
July 23, 2026 5 min read
Registration is now open for the 2026 Southern California Open Chess Tournament, a premier competition with more than 30 years of history. The tournament will run throughout Labor Day weekend, Sept. 4 through 7.
Last year, the Southern California Open came to Glendale for the first time and welcomed more than 300 players from across the country. Now, it’s back with seven sections and a $60,000 guaranteed prize fund.
The tournament will take place at the Hilton Los Angeles North/Glendale, located at 100 W. Glenoaks Blvd.
Compete in the Section That Matches Your Rating
The tournament offers seven sections: Open, U2300, U2100, U1900, U1700, U1500, and U1300.
This range brings elite players and rising competitors into the same championship environment while giving players the opportunity to compete in a section suited to their rating and experience.
The tournament includes six rounds and offers two schedule options. The four-day schedule begins Friday, Sept. 4, while the three-day schedule begins Saturday, Sept. 5. Both schedules conclude Monday, Sept. 7.
The main time control is G/90 with a 30-second increment. Rounds 1 and 2 of the three-day schedule use G/55 with a 5-second delay before those players merge into the main schedule.
Building on a Strong Glendale Debut
The 2025 Southern California Open brought together young players, experienced competitors, and internationally ranked grandmasters for four days of competition.
More than 300 players competed across seven sections for a prize fund of more than $50,000. Between rounds, the playing hall and hotel common areas filled with preparation, analysis, and conversation.
The result was a tournament that honored the event’s long history while feeling at home in Glendale. This year builds on that strong start with a larger guaranteed prize fund and another full Labor Day weekend of competition.
What to Know Before You Register
US Chess membership is required for all sections. Southern California residents must also have Southern California Chess Federation membership. Players entering the Open, U2300, or U2100 sections need a FIDE ID.
Chess sets will be provided for the main tournament, but players must bring their own clocks.
Players traveling to Glendale can also stay at the tournament venue. Use our hotel booking link to see special rates.
Stay for the SoCal Blitz Tournament
The chess continues Monday evening with the 2026 SoCal Blitz Tournament.
This 10-game side event begins at 5:30 p.m. and features Open, Under 2100, and Under 1600 sections, with a separate $2,000 guaranteed prize fund. Complete entry information is available on the tournament registration page.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
The Southern California Open is made possible through the support of local businesses, organizations, and community partners. We thank every sponsor helping bring another memorable weekend of chess competition to Glendale.
Organizations interested in supporting the tournament can learn more about Southern California Open sponsorship opportunities.
Register for the 2026 Southern California Open
Visit the registration page to review the complete schedule, current entry fees, prize breakdown, and tournament rules. Registration closes at 6 p.m. Sept. 3.
We look forward to seeing you at the boards!