Play Chess.
Meet People.
Join Haarlem's most vibrant weekly chess community. No masters required, just good vibes.
join every Wednesday
Next session
Wednesday, 12 August 2026
16:00 – 18:00
Locael Centraal, Kennemerplein 6, 2011 MJ HaarlemFree entry · All levels · Drop in anytime
The Board
Our Wednesday regulars, ranked by Rapid ELO
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where does Haarlem Chess Café meet?
We meet every Wednesday from 18:00 to 20:00 at Locael Centraal, Kennemerplein 6, Haarlem — a relaxed, easy-to-reach café in the city center.
Is Haarlem Chess Café free to join?
Yes, entry is completely free and open to all levels. It's not a formal club — no membership, no fees, and no pressure to compete.
Do I need to bring my own chess set?
If you can bring a board, please do — just mention it on the registration form so we know how many to expect. If we run short, we rotate boards or use a phone or tablet app as a backup.
Can I show up at any time?
Yes. You might have to wait for a current game to finish before you can play, but that's no problem — order a drink and watch while you wait.
How do I pay for food and drinks?
You'll get a unique number tag when you arrive. Use it to order anything you like all evening, then hand the tag back to staff and settle your own bill whenever you're ready to leave.
Do we use a chess clock?
Some players use a chess clock app (available for Android and iOS) to keep time fair between players, but most evenings we don't bother — it's a relaxed night, not a tournament.
I'm a complete beginner — how do I learn the basics first?
Watching a few YouTube videos helps, but the best way to learn how the pieces move is to play a few games on an app like Chess.com before you come.
What if my partner and I are very different skill levels?
That's completely normal. If you're the stronger player, be patient — suggest moves and ask your opponent to think out loud. If you're the weaker player, focus on learning and ask questions. It isn't a tournament.