A new year means a fresh slate of poker festivals across the globe, giving players of every bankroll level plenty to look forward to. Whether you prefer smaller local events or the biggest stages in the game—WSOP, WPT, Triton, and more—2026 is shaping up to be packed with opportunity.
With the year just underway, here’s a look at the top 10 poker tournaments you’ll want to circle on your 2026 calendar.
10. European Poker Tour Prague
Traditionally one of the final major stops of the year, EPT Prague lands in December and often serves as a warm‑up to the big winter festivals in the Bahamas and Las Vegas.
This year, players will already be in town earlier for WSOPE, and if that series performs as expected, EPT Prague could see an even bigger turnout.
The stop is consistently one of the most popular on the EPT schedule, thanks to world‑class poker and the charm of Prague during the holiday season.
If you want a mix of elite poker and festive European atmosphere, EPT Prague is a must‑play.
9. WSOP Online Main Event (GGPoker)
WSOP Online has grown into a major global festival, and the late‑summer Main Event on GGPoker is now a staple for online grinders.
While the platform isn’t available to U.S. players, many Americans travel abroad specifically to compete.
The 2025 edition featured a $5,000 buy‑in and shattered its $25 million guarantee—proof of massive international demand.
Expect the 2026 Main Event to once again challenge online prize pool records, with countless satellite paths available in the weeks leading up to the tournament.
8. Super High Roller Bowl
For high‑stakes players, PokerGO’s Super High Roller Bowl remains one of the most prestigious events of the year.
The 2025 edition featured a $100,000 buy‑in—lower than in past years but still among the toughest fields in poker.
The 2026 event is expected to return in late December, drawing the world’s most successful players for one final multimillion‑dollar showdown.
With only a handful of tables and elite competition, it’s the ultimate end‑of‑year test for high rollers.
7. WCOOP Main Event
The World Championship of Online Poker (WCOOP) remains the crown jewel of online tournament series.
Held each October, WCOOP attracts massive fields and generates some of the biggest online prize pools of the year.
The 2026 Main Event will again offer three buy‑in levels—$10,300, $1,050, and $109—ensuring players of all bankrolls can take a shot at a world championship title.
With extensive satellite options, WCOOP remains one of the most accessible paths to major online glory.
6. The Irish Poker Open
If you’re looking for a poker festival with personality, the Irish Poker Open delivers.
Known for its lively atmosphere and recreational‑friendly vibe, the event stands in stark contrast to the often serious tone of major tournaments.
Co‑hosted by PokerStars and PaddyPower, the 2026 edition begins March 26 and promises ten days of action, entertainment, and plenty of pints.
For players seeking fun both on and off the felt, Dublin is the place to be.
5. EPT Barcelona
EPT Barcelona is consistently the most popular stop on the European Poker Tour, drawing huge fields and global attention.
The 2026 festival returns to its traditional summer slot with the €5,300 Main Event.
The 2025 edition attracted 2,045 entries, and with live poker booming, 2026 could be even bigger.
Between the beaches, nightlife, and nonstop poker action, Barcelona remains one of the most appealing destinations on the circuit.
4. WSOP Europe Main Event
After years in Rozvadov, WSOP Europe moves to Prague in 2026—along with a shift to a spring schedule, running March 31 to April 12.
The Main Event retains its €5,300 buy‑in and €10 million guarantee, making it one of the largest tournaments in Europe.
The new location and timing are expected to attract a broader international field, including more American players.
With a world‑class city and a massive prize pool, WSOPE 2026 is poised to be a standout event.
3. WPT World Championship
The WPT World Championship, held each December in Las Vegas, has quickly become one of the most anticipated tournaments outside the WSOP.
Its dates often overlap with WSOP Paradise, forcing players to choose between the Bahamas and Vegas.
Despite a slight dip in 2025 attendance, the WPT is aiming for a strong rebound in 2026 with expanded promotions and player‑focused events at Wynn Las Vegas.
For many, it remains a bucket‑list tournament.
2. WSOP Paradise Super Main Event
The WSOP Paradise Super Main Event has emerged as one of the most lucrative tournaments of the year.
With a $25,000 buy‑in, it’s not for everyone—but for those who can enter (or qualify), it offers life‑changing upside.
The 2026 festival returns to the Bahamas in December, with the Super Main Event once again serving as the marquee attraction.
After a highly successful 2025 edition, even larger fields are expected this year.
1. WSOP Main Event
The undisputed king of poker tournaments.
The 2026 WSOP runs from May 26 to July 15, with the $10,000 Main Event expected to begin in late June and conclude in early July.
It’s the tournament every poker player dreams of winning, and one that every serious player should experience at least once.
With online qualifiers offering affordable paths to entry, 2026 could be your year to take a shot at poker immortality.
