October 1 - 8, 2025

Chess week pittsburgh

Since 2017, the first week of October has been officially recognized as Chess Week in Pittsburgh - a tradition established by a Pittsburgh City Council proclamation (District 8) to honor the work of the Queens Gambit Chess Institute and celebrate the transformative power of chess. Each year, Queens Gambit leads the city in a weeklong celebration of strategy, learning, and community connection - uniting players, families, and partners from across the region.

Your Move, Pittsburgh!

2025 Schedule

All week long! Chess & Coffee - De Fer Coffee & Tea x Queens Gambit Partnership

De Fer Coffee & Tea, 2002 Smallman St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Start your mornings with strategy and connection! For the first time ever, Queens Gambit is partnering with De Fer Coffee & Tea to bring chess to your daily ritual. Enjoy open chess boards, beginner-friendly guides, and a welcoming café atmosphere - the perfect place to slow down, sip, and play.

Chess sets will be available on the mezzanine level at De Fer’s Strip District location.

Join the fun! Take a photo while you play and tag @defercoffeeandtea and @queensgambitpgh using #ChessWeekPGH for a chance to win a special Chess Week prize.

  • Chess Movie Night

    5:00 PM - 8:00 PM | 6425 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206

    Spend an evening under the stars at Bakery Square. Start with giant outdoor chess boards for friendly matches, then relax for a screening of a classic chess film. Open to all ages and skill levels, this event combines the fun of the game with the magic of an outdoor movie night.

  • Chess in the Square - Launch with Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership

    October 2 - 8 | Mellon Square, Sixth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

    For one week only, Downtown Pittsburgh’s Mellon Square transforms into an open-air chess lounge. Giant chess sets, instructional signage, and drop-in lessons make it the perfect destination for casual players, competitors, and beginners alike.

    Pop-Up Chess at Allegheny Commons Park

    12:00 PM - 5:00 PM | W Ohio St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

    Join us at Allegheny Commons Park for an afternoon of open play with large chess sets, portable boards, and instructors on hand to guide beginners and facilitate matches. This is a welcoming space for players of all ages and skill levels.

  • Pittsburgh Youth Chess Tournament

    9:00 AM - 3:00 PM | 1 Heinz St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

    Students in grades 1-12 from across Pittsburgh come together for a four-round public chess tournament hosted by Queens Gambit and Sarah Heinz House. Open to beginners and experienced players, this event builds sportsmanship, critical thinking, and connection.

    Prizes will be awarded.

    Register here.

  • Let’s Learn Chess! - Downtown Celebration

    12:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Sixth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222

    The signature event of Chess Week. This all-day festival features:

    • Giant chess boards

    • Pop-up lessons led by experienced instructors

    • Live music and open play

    Perfect for families, friends, and curious passersby - this is chess at its most vibrant and engaging.

  • Pop-Up Chess at Schenley Plaza

    12:00 PM - 2:00 PM | 4100 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

    Stop by Schenley Plaza during lunch for a lively pop-up chess experience in the heart of Oakland. Large chess sets, portable boards, and instructors on hand make this a perfect midday break for players of all ages and skill levels.

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