The global poker tournament calendar is one of the most action-packed in recent years. Live poker continues to grow worldwide, with major tours expanding schedules, increasing prize pools, and adding new destinations. From Las Vegas to Europe and across Asia, offers poker players endless opportunities to compete, travel, and profit.
This guide covers the biggest poker tournaments, including the World Series of Poker (WSOP), World Poker Tour (WPT), European Poker Tour (EPT), and leading Asian poker tours, along with planning tips and key insights.
Why This Is a Big Year for Live Poker
Live poker is stronger than ever, driven by increased international travel and higher tournament participation.
Key trends shaping:
- Expanded tournament schedules across all major tours
- Larger guarantees and deeper prize pools
- Strong growth in Asian poker festivals
- Increased focus on mid-stakes and recreational-friendly events
For poker players, this means more choices, better value, and more profitable travel options, especially when paired with access to a trusted club list that keeps you playing in active games between live events.
World Series of Poker (WSOP) – Las Vegas
The World Series of Poker remains the most prestigious poker series in the world.
Location: Las Vegas, USA
Dates: Late May to mid-July
WSOP Highlights
- Over 100 bracelet events
- Buy-ins ranging from low-stakes to high rollers
- The iconic $10,000 Main Event
- Mixed games, bounty events, turbo formats, and online qualifiers
Why WSOP Is Essential
- Largest player fields in poker
- Soft games early in the series
- Cash games running 24/7
- Global recognition and career-defining wins
For any serious poker player, WSOP is the centerpiece of the poker calendar.
World Poker Tour (WPT) – Global Circuit
The World Poker Tour continues to deliver premium events across multiple continents.
Key WPT Features
- Major championship events in North America
- WPT Prime and regional stops for mid-stakes players
- The prestigious WPT World Championship held in Las Vegas
- Televised final tables and global exposure
Why Players Choose WPT
- Strong organization and structure
- Balanced fields of professionals and recreational players
- Attractive buy-in options
- Excellent player experience
WPT events are ideal for players who want consistent structures and high-quality tournament play.
European Poker Tour (EPT) – Europe’s Elite Series
The European Poker Tour remains Europe’s most respected poker circuit.
Popular EPT Stops
- Barcelona
- Prague
- Other rotating European cities
Why EPT Matters
- Large international player pools
- Well-structured tournaments
- Strong festival atmosphere
- High prestige and media coverage
EPT events are competitive but still profitable for prepared players, especially during major festival weeks.
Asian Poker Tours – Rapid Growth Across Asia
Asia continues to be one of the fastest-growing live poker regions in the world.
Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT)
- Strong presence in Southeast Asia
- Regular stops in cities like Manila and Cambodia
- Combination of main events, side events, and cash games
Asian Poker Tour (APT)
- Major festivals in Taiwan and other Asian cities
- Known for well-run events and player-friendly structures
- Growing international attendance
Why Asia Is Popular
- Softer competition compared to Europe and the US
- Lower cost of travel and accommodation
- Increasing prize pools and festival frequency
- Great lifestyle and travel appeal
Asian poker tours are especially attractive for grinders and travelling poker professionals.
Other Important Poker Series
Beyond the major tours, includes many valuable regional and festival series.
United States Regional Poker Series
- Summer and winter festival series in Las Vegas
- Mid-stakes tournament circuits
- Deep-stack and bounty-focused formats
European Regional Events
- Smaller buy-ins with strong guarantees
- Great value for bankroll-building players
- Less travel pressure than major tours
These events are ideal for players who want consistent action without extreme variance.
Buy-Ins, Bankroll & Scheduling Tips
Planning your poker year is just as important as playing well.
Smart Tournament Planning Tips
- Choose events that match your bankroll
- Combine major series with smaller regional stops
- Avoid overloading your schedule
- Plan rest days during long festivals
Budget Considerations
- Accommodation costs during peak poker seasons
- Travel expenses and visa rules
- Cash game availability between tournaments
Proper planning helps maximize ROI and long-term sustainability.
How Poker Players Use the Tournament Calendar
A well-managed poker calendar allows players to:
- Target softer fields
- Avoid unnecessary travel costs
- Maintain steady bankroll growth
- Balance lifestyle and performance
Many professionals now plan 3–6 months ahead rather than playing randomly.
Final Thoughts
The Global Poker Tournament Calendar offers more opportunities than ever before. With legendary events like the WSOP, global circuits like the WPT, elite European festivals through the EPT, and rapidly expanding Asian poker tours, players can design a full year of profitable and exciting poker.
Whether you’re a recreational player chasing a major score or a professional building a global schedule, is a landmark year for live poker.
Plan early, choose wisely, and focus on tournaments that fit your bankroll, skill level, and lifestyle goals.
FAQs
1.What is the biggest poker tournament?
The World Series of Poker (WSOP) is the biggest poker tournament series with the most events and largest prize pools.
2.When does the WSOP start ?
WSOP runs from late May to mid-July in Las Vegas.
3.Which poker tours are most popular?
The most popular poker tours are WSOP, WPT, EPT, and major Asian poker tours.
4.Are Asian poker tournaments good for players?
Yes, Asian poker tournaments often have softer fields, lower costs, and strong prize value.
5.How should players plan poker travel?
Players should plan around bankroll, tournament schedules, travel costs, and visa requirements.
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