NEW ORLEANS – Chess lovers of all ages are invited to the fourth annual Chess Fest. Each year, Chess Fest participants enjoy the opportunity to craft DIY chessboards, play chess puzzle games, move as “human chess pieces” on a giant chessboard, join a friendly fast-chess tournament and more. Whether you’re already an experienced player or someone just curious about learning the fundamentals of the game, HNOC’s youth-led Chess Fest is the place to be.
Saturday, Nov. 1 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
10 a.m. – Family Activities
Chess-themed arts and crafts and activities for attendees of all ages. Take a chess crash course for beginners, play Chinese chess or make your own chess board.
11-11:30 a.m. – Human Chess & Costume Contest
Step onto a life-size human chessboard, where a full match will be played with 32 volunteers as chess pieces. Get into the spirit with the Best-Dressed Chess Costume Contest for a chance to win prizes for wearing the most creative chess piece apparel.
Noon: Chess Puzzle Competition, Five-Round Fast Chess Tournament
Put your mind to the test with “pawn mower” challenges and other tricky chess puzzles, or compete in a blitz style, five-round tournament directed by the Downriver Chess Club.
12:30 p.m. – Chess Fest Film Screenings
Enjoy a series of short films about HNOC’s Chess Club, the history of chess in New Orleans and the mission of the Tate, Etienne, Prevost (TEP) Center, with discussions moderated by Chess Cave founder Baylee Badawy.
WHERE: TEP Center
5909 St. Claude Ave., New Orleans, LA 70117
HOW: Admission to Chess Fest is free, but registration is required at hnoc.org.