On Saturday, July 18, 2026, the La Défense shopping center will turn into a giant chessboard on the central square! Whether you're a chess aficionado or a curious passerby, come learn for free and test your mettle against others in a free-to-enter chess tournament open to all. For years overlooked, this timeless game is enjoying a renewed wave of popularity, with the federation estimating around 5 million French players.
From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., watch or join in if you feel up to it at a big chess tournament bringing together up to 48 players in a round-robin format, accessible only through pre-registration. In parallel, a free, open-access introduction led by professionals invites you to discover the basics of the game and to start with some opening moves.
In the afternoon, from 2 to 5 p.m., Joachim Mouhamad, a FIDE Master and coach certified by the International Chess Federation, will be on hand to deliver a real spectacle, with an impressive challenge: to take on 15 opponents at once! For this simul against a professional, don’t forget to register as well!
And to brush up before the event, a few spots in the capital let you play there and get started in chess.
Where to Play Chess in Paris? Our Top Spots for Cafés, Bars, and Gardens with Chessboards
Between trendy bars and specialty cafés, outdoor tables in parks, and informal get-togethers around a chessboard, Paris offers a wealth of spots to play chess — whether you're competing in a tournament or just enjoying a friendly game. [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
On July 18, 2026
Location
Westfield Les 4 Temps
15, Parvis de la Défense
92800 Puteaux
Route planner
Accessibility info
Prices
Free
Official website
experience.westfield.com



Where to Play Chess in Paris? Our Top Spots for Cafés, Bars, and Gardens with Chessboards










