We re-opened for our first tournament on 9/12/20 since mid-March and have implemented the following key changes:
   #1   ULPA & UV lamp filtration system to clean & sanitize the playing hall
   (this is high efficiency and is rated better than even a super HEPA filter commonly used in clean rooms, hospitals, laboratories, etc.)
   #2   Mask requirement
   #3   Sanitizer provided at each table for use prior to touching pieces
   #4   No bystanders and parents, players only within the building
   #5   New layout that only seats 8 boards (16 players max)

​Depending on how things proceed forward, we may have to limit our event programming, restart part of our operations and the rest at a later date. Please check back with us on this website or TEXT MSG to 281-698-0068 if you have a specific question. Thank you.   *09/12/2020

Anyone interested in rated OTB chess tournaments, please fill out the 5 question survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PVSSDV3

Welcome to The Chess Refinery
Drop in to see what we're about. This is the only true full-fledged brick and mortar non-profit chess organization in Houston.

Who We Are

  1. We organize USCF rated chess tournaments for all ages. We hope to offer FIDE rated events soon.
  2. We have a free kids chess learning program that takes place every other Sunday afternoon!
  3. We refer adults to the right resources for adult beginners who are seeking improvement and private lessons. Just text us with questions.
  4. We seek out opportunities to bring chess to the Houston community.
  5. We would love to open daily for casual OTB (over the board) chess, but unfortunately don't have the resources or enough volunteers to do so just yet. In the meantime, for a list of locations where you can play chess OTB in Houston, scroll to the bottom of the FAQ page.

Educational Outreach

Our free programs aid underprivileged kids and senior assisted living communities, etc.

Scholastic Programs

For kids - private lessons available. Free group learning program is every other Sunday afternoon - preregistration required before attending.

Casual Play

Currently looking for volunteers to open the club up more nights to offer Casual OTB (over the board) Play!

Tournaments

Wednesday Monthly Swiss; 360+ Saturdays; Sat Swiss 75; Quick/Blitz; Rated & Unrated Events; see event calendar for dates & times
The Chess Refinery is a Texas nonprofit organization in the process of applying for 501(c)(3) status.
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