It’s back! Chess-In-The-Parks Rapid Open is in its 21st year. Bishop to Bethesda & 72nd! will take place on the Bethesda Terrace in Central Park on Saturday, September 17th at 11:00am.
NYC Parks will host over 600 chess players of all ages and skill levels in the largest outdoor chess tournament in the United States during the 21st Annual Chess-in-the-Parks Rapid Open. Grand Masters will kick off the event with an exhibition speed chess match, and will challenge players throughout the day.
A partnership between NYC Parks and Chess-in–the-Schools, Chess-in-the-Parks Rapid Open gives New Yorkers the chance to outwit each other in a tournament that features 6 Round G/10 Rapid across six sections: Open Championship, Intermediate, Reserve, Novice, Adult/Teen Unrated and Youth Unrated.
Chess sets, trophies, medals, books and other prizes will be awarded following the last round.
In addition to the main tournament there will be a full menu of chess-inspired fun and brain-stimulating activities including a Grandmaster Speed Chess Match and chess puzzles to test your skill. The event is free and open to people of all ages. Prizes will include chess books donated by grandmasters.
The 21st Annual Chess-In-The-Parks Rapid Open will return to Central Park on Saturday, September 17, 2022 at 11:00am. The event will take place at Bethesda Terrace, enter at 72nd Street, in Central Park.
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While you’re in Central Park, enjoy a new exhibition at Central Park’s Arsenal Gallery, kicking-off Hispanic Heritage Month with ‘Flores de mi Pais.‘
Take a walk up to 82nd Street and Fifth Avenue to view the new Met Facade by artist Hew Locke, entitled Gilt.
Or walk down to Doris C. Freedman Plaza, at the entrance to Central Park at 59th Street, to see the mythical mother sculpture, Ancestor, by artist Bharti Kher.