Chess Fest 2026

The Tate Etienne and Prevost (TEP) Center 5909 St. Claude Ave. Free admission, registration required Chess lovers of all ages are invited to the fifth annual HNOC Chess Fest, presented by HNOC’s Chess Club! Each year, Chess Fest participants enjoy the opportunity to meet other chess players from around the city, craft DIY chessboards, play chess puzzle games, move as “human chess pieces” on a giant chessboard, join a friendly fast-chess tournament, and more. And because Chess Fest falls on Halloween this year, all participants are invited to come dressed in their spookiest (or chess-themed) attire for our annual costume contest! 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. Admission to Chess Fest is free, but registration is required. Stay tuned for the schedule of events, coming fall of 2026. Stay tuned for more details and registration information, coming fall of 2026. We ask that Chess Fest participants please park on St. Claude Avenue or streets adjacent to the TEP Center. Please do not use the small parking lot behind the building, which is reserved for TEP Center staff and residents. Questions? Contact us at [email protected]. Chess Fest is presented in partnership with Down River Chess and the Chess Cave. HNOC’s Chess Club blends the game of chess with creative activities and historical research. Members learn about the rich history of chess in New Orleans from the 19th century to the present day. This is a club for all ages!Anyone with basic knowledge of the rules of chess and chess notation can join. Subscribe to Our Education Newsletter