Thursday Night Free Chess Club

Since June 2025, our free casual chess nights regularly attract 15-20 players of all levels including:

1. experienced USCF tournament players (including young adults that competed scholastically, like DHS and Fallon chess alumni)!

2. passionate Chess.com players looking for a nearby in-person venue 

3. novices that are curious about the game - come between 5:30-6:30 PM to get instruction and tips! We welcome women and seniors!

4. youth players accompanied by a playing adult

5. chess parents that want to keep up with their kids

See some of our recent events: April 9, May 7,  April 30, April 23.

Join us if you are looking for a non-intimidating way to exercise your brain, hang with other adult players, and maybe even win a prize! 

Where: Pacific Pearl Mall Food Court (south section of mall, next to 99 Ranch Market), 2705 Stoneridge Drive, Pleasanton 

When: Every Thursday night

5:30 - 6:30 PM - free play chess, informal instruction and registration. 

6:30 - 8:30 to 9 PM - Non-rated tournaments with small cash and cash-equivalent prizes for all levels, including novices.

Cost: Free

Email Eric@EmeraldHillsChess.com for more info or if you'd like to join the Chess Club Mailing List

The Shihlin Taiwan Food Snacks restaurant in the Food Hall is offering a 20% discount on all food and drinks on Thursday nights to all friends of Emerald Hills Chess (whether or not you are playing). To get your 20% discount, just mention Chess when you order directly with the counterperson (NOT the electronic kiosk) and pay in cash.

Honey Tea (also in the Pacific Pearl Food Hall) is offering a 10% discount on their boba tea and other drinks ANY TIME. Just mention ‘chess’ when ordering.