Durham Chess Club

You’re invited. Just come play!

Free weekly chess in Downtown Durham. 6:00pm - 8:30pm every Wednesday at the Durham Food Hall for casual games and a non-competitive, social chess community.

530 Foster Street, Durham, NC 27701

Sets provided. All levels welcome (seriously, even if you are new). Kids encouraged to come.

Get directions Subscribe to our calendar

Gallery

IM Levan Bregadze playing challengers simultaneously at Durham Central Park.

Wednesday meetup. Photographer: Grayson Guarino

What We Offer

Chess sets and clocks are supplied, but we encourage players to bring their own if possible. Just stop by and play, watch, or chat. Free Durham Chess Club stickers available, come get one. Free Chess books available to borrow at the Wednesday meetups.

One of our tournaments was covered in The 9th Street Journal — read about it here.

We have also been covered in The Durham Voice — read about it here.

Find our listing on the Downtown Durham Website— find it here.

Durham Chess Club Organizer and local chess instructor Logan James offers private lessons for those interested.

Before you visit

Do I need to register or pay?

No registration or membership is needed for the free Wednesday meetup. Come to Durham Food Hall between 6:00 and 8:30 PM. Tournaments and special events may have separate registration and entry fees; check the event calendar for details.

Can I come alone, or if I’m a beginner?

Absolutely. Look for Logan, the organizer, and say hello. You can find a game, ask a question, or watch for a while. You do not need a rating or a regular opponent. Our beginner resources can help you get started.

Should I bring a chess set? Are children welcome?

We provide sets and clocks, and you’re welcome to bring your own. Players of all ages are welcome, including children with a parent or caregiver.

Where do we meet?

Durham Food Hall, 530 Foster Street, in downtown Durham. Use our directions link to plan your trip. Check the calendar for any schedule changes before heading over.

Join the club. Get in touch.

Joining is simple: come and play. It’s free. If you’re coming alone, find Logan and say hello! To hear about tournaments, special events, and club updates, join the email list by writing to durhamcountychessclub@gmail.com .