Get your 'game on' as chess takes over Chatswood in April and May. Coinciding with the famed Sydney Comedy Festival, visitors can grab their best selfie with supersized inflatable chess pieces dotted around the CBD, learn killer strategies at chess workshops, or test their skills at a tournament. Enjoy a simultaneous chess display where a champion takes on multiple players at once. Join in the fun and compete with friends in giant chess or compete with a champion in fast-paced lightning chess.
Mayor Tanya Taylor states: "We are thrilled to be welcoming chess back to Chatswood. Chess has more than 100 years of history in Chatswood. The Chatswood Chess Club (now called Norths Chess Club) has been operating since 1908. The earliest venue was the School of Arts on Victoria Avenue, Chatswood, now the site of The Concourse. It is exhilarating to be bringing the game back to the area. There is something for everyone, whether you play or not!".
Checkmate Chatswood runs in Chatswood CBD from the 22 April to the 19 May with a range of free and paid events:
Check out the website for more details www.visitchatswood.com.au
Checkmate Chatswood activities
Chess Sculptures
Grab your camera and venture out to Chatswood CBD as chess takes over. Spot giant inflatable chess pieces: Take a selfie with the King or Queen, drop your best knight pose or rule the 'rook'. Can you find all 18 pieces across the CBD? It's an adventure you won't want to miss!
All ages.
Date: 22 April to 19 May
Location: Chatswood CBD
Cost: Free
Interactive Giant Chess Set
Challenge your friends and family! A giant outdoor chess set will be available for the public to test their skills on. Don't be a 'stalemate' - head to The Concourse and have fun. Who will be crowned the winner? The chess set will be available to play at various times during the school holidays, weekends and evenings.
All ages.
Date: 22 April to 19 May, various times during the school holidays, weekends and evenings
Location: The Concourse
Cost: Free
Global Gambits and Playful Revisions
An exhibition that delves into the role of play and games in navigating life's challenges. Artists creatively use play, satire, and repurposed children's toys to shed light on issues such as global warming, colonisation, and political injustices. Experience gaming guitars, racing cars and toy soldiers through the lens of an artist's playful yet serious call to awareness.
All ages.
Date: 9 May to 9 June
Location: Art Space on The Concourse
Cost: Free
School Holiday Chess Workshops
Are you prepared for battle? Learn how to play chess these school holidays at the Chatswood Library. Beginner players will learn the basics like how each piece works and basic checkmate strategy. Those who are more experienced can pick up tactics and traps to outwit their opponents.
Ages 5 - 12.
Date: 22 to 24 April, 1.30pm to 3.30pm
Location: Creator Space, Chatswood Library
Cost: $20, registration essential
NSW Junior Chess League Tournament
Compete with other young chess players at this NSW Junior Chess League tournament. Situated in the inspiring and naturally lit foyer of The Concourse, players aged 5 - 17 can be involved in a NSWJCL rated tournament, meet likeminded players and win prizes.
Ages 5 – 17.
Date: 28 April, 1pm to 4pm
Location: The Concourse Foyer
Cost: $25, registration and membership of the NSW Junior Chess League essential.
Rapid Chess
Could you beat a chess expert? Get up close and personal with a champion and play a game of rapid chess. Bring your A-game, grab your family and friends to cheer you on and don't forget to take a picture to commemorate the moment. Don't miss this chance to test your skills.
All ages
Date: 4 May, 11am to 2pm
Location: The Concourse
Cost: Free
Simultaneous Chess Display
See a chess master in action as they compete with multiple players at once. With over 20 boards set up next to the grand staircase at The Concourse, be treated to a rare display of chess mastery. As seen in the Queen's Gambit, observe a champion simultaneously take on multiple players at the same time.
All ages.
Date: 11 May, 11am start
Location: The Concourse Staircase
Cost: Free
NSW Chess Association 'Allegro' Tournament
In this ACF and FIDE rated 'allegro' tournament, play seven 30-minute rounds of chess. Compete to win prizes, and be part of an esteemed event in the inspiring and naturally lit foyer of The Concourse.
Ages 5+
Date: 19 May, 10.30am to 4pm
Location: The Concourse Foyer
Cost: $25, registration and membership of the NSW Chess Association essential.
