What to Expect: Chess Fest
Join us for a fun, friendly, and competitive day of chess!
Swiss Tournament | Schedule
Round 1: 12:00 – 12:40
Round 2: 12:40 – 1:20
Round 3: 1:20 – 2:00
Round 4: 2:00 – 2:40
Round 5: 2:40 – 3:20
Tournament Format:
Our main event will feature an unrated Swiss-style tournament open to all ages and skill levels.
Registration: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Tournament Start: 12:00 PM
The tournament will consist of five rounds, each lasting 30 minutes total (15 minutes per player). Between each round, there will be a 10-minute break to allow for pairings and rest time.
While everyone will compete together in one unified tournament, awards will be given to:
Top 3 Overall Players
Top 3 Players Under 18
Activities:
Chess 101: New to chess or just need a refresher? Join our quick and interactive Chess 101 Mini-Class! Learn the basics of the game — from how the pieces move to the goal of checkmate — in a fun, beginner-friendly session. Our instructors will guide you through setup, simple strategies, and a few tips to get you playing confidently in no time.
Time: 10 - 11 AM
Skill Level: Beginners / All Ages Welcome
Swiss Tournament: Test your skills and strategy in our unrated Swiss-style chess tournament! Players of all ages and abilities are welcome to compete in a friendly, community-based setting designed to challenge and inspire.
Each participant is guaranteed multiple rounds of play against opponents with similar scores, making every match fun, fair, and engaging. Trophies will be awarded to the top 3 overall players and top 3 under 18.
This event is free to enter and a great way to meet fellow chess lovers as we continue building the Northwest Arkansas chess community.
Time: 12 PM – 3:30 PM
Format: Swiss System (Unrated)
Skill Level: All Ages & Skill Levels Welcome
Color a Pawn: Get creative with your very own chess piece! Pick a wooden pawn and make it your own masterpiece using bright colors and bold designs. Whether you go classic, colorful, or totally imaginative — it’s your move!
A fun keepsake and perfect way to add a personal touch to your Chess Fest experience.
All ages welcome
Take your pawn home!
Logic Lab: Puzzles & Brain Teasers: Step into the Logic Lab and put your brain to the test! Explore a collection of classic puzzles, riddles, and hands-on brain teasers that challenge your focus, strategy, and creative thinking — just like chess does.
From pattern games to problem-solving challenges, every puzzle will stretch your mind and sharpen the same skills used on the chessboard. Perfect for curious thinkers of all ages!
Drop in anytime
Great for all ages and skill levels
Explore Resources at the Bentonville Public Library: Discover all the amazing resources the Bentonville Public Library (BPL) has to offer while you’re here for Chess Fest!
Makerspace Magic:
Did you know the BPL’s Makerspace helped bring this event to life? The library’s talented team laser-cut and 3D-printed our very own chess sets! Visit the Makerspace to learn how you can design, print, and create your own projects — from digital art to custom game pieces.
Library of Things:
Looking for a fun way to keep the chess fun going at home? Check out the Library of Things! You can borrow all sorts of items — including chess sets, board games, crafting tools, and more.
Books & Learning:
Want to sharpen your strategy or dive deeper into the history of the game? The BPL has tons of books on chess — from beginner guides to advanced tactics, biographies of grandmasters, and even storybooks inspired by the game. Expand your knowledge and let curiosity lead the way!
Enter our Chess Raffle: Try your luck and make your next chess move a winning one! Enter our Chess Fest Raffle for a chance to take home fun prizes — from chess sets and books to cool themed goodies.
Every entry supports our growing chess community and celebrates the spirit of strategy, creativity, and play. Don’t miss your chance to win something special!
Winners will be contacted via email
Free to enter — all ages welcome!
Casual Chess Games: Take a seat, grab a board, and play at your own pace! The Casual Play Zone is the perfect place to relax, meet new players, and enjoy friendly matches — no pressure, no clock, just pure fun.
Whether you’re learning the basics, testing new strategies, or simply playing for the joy of it, this is your space to connect and enjoy the game.
All ages & skill levels welcome
Sit down, play, and make a new friend!
Tactics Challenge Station: Think you’ve got the mind of a grandmaster? Put your skills to the test at our Tactics Challenge Station! Solve real chess puzzles and sharpen your pattern recognition, foresight, and strategy.
Bentonville Chess Club: Learn more information on the growing Bentonville chess club. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced competitor, this is the perfect place to learn, connect, and find a place to play year-round.
Event Schedule
9:00 - 11:00AM | Registration & Pre-Event Activities
Player Registration: Tournament sign-up, scored distribution, and table assignments
10:00AM - 11:00AM | Chess 101
Beginner tutorials led by Alexander Saravia
11:00 - 11:45AM | Opening Ceremony
Welcome Remarks: Bentonville Public Library & Downtown Bentonville Inc.
Tournament Orientation: Quick overview of Swiss pairings, time control (15 minutes per player), and etiquette
Group Photo & Kickoff Countdown!
12:00PM - 3:30PM | Swiss Tournament - 5 Rounds
3:30PM - 3:45PM | Awards & Recognition
4:00PM | Event Wrap Up
All Day Activities:
Casual Play: Open boards available for all levels
Puzzles and Logic Challenge: Explore puzzles and brain teasers. Learn how logic can help with chess.
Raffle Opens: Enter in our FREE raffle for a chance to win fun prizes.
Color a Pawn: Craft and color your own pawn piece to take home