How to Run a Home Poker Tournament

Hosting a home poker tournament can be a lot of fun, and, in most jurisdictions, is legal so long as the host does not charge extra for hosting the tournament. Organization and proper set up are the keys to success - don't forget to have a poker timer for all players to see the tournament progress! Read on to discover how to set up a poker tournament at home.

1

Buy a poker chip set.

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The most realistic affordable size is 500 chip 11.5 gram (0.4 oz) weight set. A 1000 chip set will easily allow you to host a 2 table 20 player tournament.
- You will need a minimum of 8 players and a maximum of 20 depending on your poker chip set.^{[1]XResearch source}

2

Start the blind at 10-20.

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Then, every 15 minutes, raise them. This way the tournament doesn't run all night.^{[2]XResearch source}
- If your chip set has more than 3 colours, assign the extras to large chip amounts like 500 and 1000. This way you can colour up and remove the smaller chips.^{[3]XResearch source}

3

Keep the buy-in (entry fee) reasonable.

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A $5 entry is reasonable to most who play poker.^{[4]XResearch source}

4

Pay out the players

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If you are having a 2 table tournament (20 players) you could make the top 4 players winners.^{[5]XResearch source}

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Tips

Get a poker blind timer. There are some that you can play on your computer or laptop so all players can watch the time, pay out and levels change. It also makes your home tournament more impressive.
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Running a live money game for knocked out tourney players is a good way to keep the fires burning to the wee hours. Also, games for non-players will keep the +1's happy - think Guitar Hero with a full band set or social board games like Wits and Wagers.
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If you offer food be sure to avoid any sticky foods that may get all over the chips, cards and table. Stick to easy snacks like pretzels. Drinks could be kept off the table if you are worried about your poker table.
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Warnings

If you take a fee for hosting or food make sure to check your local laws. Most states or provinces are very clear that if you take any money you are considered a betting house. This may get you into some serious trouble. Avoid the extra fee and rotate the tournament to other people's houses. This will share the costs.
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