PokerStars Open Returns to Philadelphia

Participants at the PokerStars Open in a casino

Philadelphia, January 13, 2026

The PokerStars Open is set to take place at Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia, featuring multiple tournaments with a total guarantee of $550,000. This event welcomes players of all skill levels, promoting local talent and enriching community engagement. After last year’s success, the 2026 event anticipates increased participation and aims to further enhance Philadelphia’s reputation as a gaming hub.

Get Ready for the PokerStars Open Philadelphia 2026

Exciting tournaments, substantial prize pools, and community engagement await!

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – The highly anticipated PokerStars Open is returning to Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia from March 16 to 23, 2026. This event promises to generate excitement for both seasoned pros and enthusiastic novices alike, as players compete for a lucrative share of $550,000 in guaranteed prize pools. By fostering local talent and encouraging community participation, the PokerStars Open exemplifies how well-organized events can invigorate Philadelphia’s status as a pivotal hub for competitive gaming.

In 2025, Philadelphia welcomed the inaugural PokerStars Open, marking the first PokerStars Open tour stop in North America. The overwhelming success of last year’s event, which attracted over 1,150 entries, has paved the way for heightened enthusiasm and participation in 2026. With visions of reduced bureaucracy and improved coordination under local leadership, this year’s tournament is poised for even greater achievements.

Key Events

This year’s lineup features several key events designed to appeal to a broad spectrum of players:

  • $500,000 Guaranteed Main Event
  • $50,000 Guaranteed PokerStars Cup
  • $10,000 Guaranteed Women’s Event

The full tournament schedule, including specific dates and structures for each event, will be released soon, providing ample preparation for participants.

Online Qualifiers: A Gateway for All Gamers

To make the PokerStars Open even more accessible, players residing in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New Jersey can qualify through online satellites starting as low as $10. These qualifiers will launch on January 20, 2026, on PokerStars PA, PokerStars MI, and PokerStars NJ platforms. Such initiatives not only increase grassroots engagement but also embody the spirit of community-enhancing events that celebrate local talent.

Venue Details: The Setting for Excellence

Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia, strategically situated in the heart of South Philadelphia’s Stadium District, will serve as the perfect venue for this prestigious event. The facility boasts a dedicated poker room with 30 tables, offering luxury seating and a variety of poker games including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Mixed Games. This state-of-the-art environment ensures that players have the best experience possible while competing for significant prizes.

Community Impact and Economic Growth

Beyond the thrill of the games, events like the PokerStars Open provide a substantial boost to the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, and surrounding businesses benefit greatly from the influx of participants and visitors. Civic innovation thrives when local events capitalize on individual achievement, fostering growth while highlighting the importance of community engagement in making Philadelphia a center for exciting events.

Conclusion

The return of the PokerStars Open Philadelphia is a testament to the city’s vibrant gaming culture and its commitment to fostering community-focused events. With exciting opportunities for players of all levels, this year’s tournament is not just about poker; it’s about coming together as a community to celebrate skill, competition, and camaraderie. As eager players prepare to showcase their talents, we encourage everyone to support local events that continue to enrich Philadelphia’s landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is the PokerStars Open Philadelphia 2026?

The event is scheduled from March 16 to 23, 2026.

Where is the event being held?

The PokerStars Open Philadelphia will take place at Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia, located in the heart of South Philadelphia’s Stadium District.

What are the key events and their guarantees?

  • $500,000 Guaranteed Main Event
  • $50,000 Guaranteed PokerStars Cup
  • $10,000 Guaranteed Women’s Event

How can I qualify for the event?

Players in Pennsylvania, Michigan, and New Jersey can qualify through online satellites starting at just $10. These qualifiers will begin on January 20, 2026, on PokerStars PA, PokerStars MI, and PokerStars NJ platforms.

What was the outcome of the 2025 PokerStars Open Philadelphia Main Event?

The 2025 Main Event attracted 1,154 entries, generating a total prize pool of $1,107,840. The final three players agreed to a deal, with Edward Leonard taking home the largest share of $147,806.

Event Dates Guarantee
$500,000 Guaranteed Main Event Dates TBA $500,000
$50,000 Guaranteed PokerStars Cup Dates TBA $50,000
$10,000 Guaranteed Women’s Event Dates TBA $10,000

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STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER

The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.

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