The 2026 World Series of Poker begins this week: The annual poker event returns

The annual poker extravaganza is here again. Winter has passed, the outdoor temperatures are pleasant, and it's the perfect time to spend the next month and a half in an air-conditioned room playing poker. That's right – the 2026 World Series of Poker (WSOP) kicks off on Tuesday, May 26, at Horseshoe Las Vegas.

As the most prestigious event in the global poker world, the WSOP attracts thousands of players each year vying for gold bracelets and substantial prize money. This year's series will be held in the expansive playing area at Horseshoe, with a schedule expected to run through mid-July, featuring a variety of poker variants including No-Limit Texas Hold'em, Omaha, Seven-Card Stud, and more.

Although the full event schedule has not yet been announced, tradition dictates that the Main Event is typically scheduled later in the series, with a buy-in of $10,000. In past years, Main Event participation has often numbered in the thousands, and the champion's prize frequently reaches millions of dollars. Additionally, the WSOP hosts numerous side events, online events, and special events targeting different groups, such as the Ladies Event and the Seniors Event.

For those unable to travel to Las Vegas, WSOP.com (in Nevada and New Jersey) usually offers online satellites and related qualifiers, giving players a chance to earn seats at a lower cost. Note that online participation must comply with local laws and regulations.

The opening of the 2026 WSOP marks the start of another grand celebration in the poker world. As the series progresses, more details will be released, and poker enthusiasts are encouraged to stay tuned to official information.