The dates of the next edition of the Chess Festival Groningen have been announced. Traditionally this tournament -with its long and captivating history- is held over the Christmas period, and this year is no exception. The organisers have decided to have the tournament take place from Saturday 22 December until Sunday 30 December. As usual Christmas day, Tuesday 25 December, is a day off. The Open Tournament consists of 9 rounds Swiss.

The A-group consists of strong grandmasters both from the Netherlands and abroad again this year. They are joined by IMs, FMs, norm chasers and ambitious club players. The B-group offers a spot to those unable to match with the grandmasters, but eager to play 9 competitive rounds of chess. In addition, you can choose to just compete before or after Christmas in the 4 Person Round Robin or the Compact Group. On Sunday 23 December two rounds will take place in one day. Further details concerning additional festivities, such as the contestants of the annual match (University Challenge) and the Students Christmas Chess Tournament, will follow on this website, Facebook and Twitter.

Registration will open shortly, but you can save the dates now. We hope to see you in Groningen this Christmas!


Koen Lambrecht, tournament director Chess Festival Groningen