Want to brush up on your chess skills? Or learn the basics? Or just get together with other folks to play chess? Charlotte Mecklenburg Library hosts many chess clubs and free play events, and, the best part? They’re all free.
We’re listing some chess programs below, but make sure to check on Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s website for updated schedules and to double check. Also, some of these events require pre-registration. Please make sure to check the intended age range for each event.
Chess Programs at Charlotte Mecklenburg Library
Chess Club at Matthews Library
Every Thursday through May 29, 2025
4 to 5 p.m.
Matthews Library
230 Matthews Station Street
Matthews, NC 28105
Ages 5-11
Free (no registration required)
All abilities are welcome, but a basic knowledge of the game of chess is strongly recommended, as there is no formal instruction available.
Family Chess Club at Mint Hill Library
Most Saturdays, through May 31, 2025
Not meeting on April 19 or May 24, 2025
3 to 4 p.m.
Mint Hill Library
6840 Matthews – Mint Hill Road, Mint Hill, NC
Ages 5+ and families
Free (no registration required)
Participants will learn chess basics, strategies, tactics and test their skills in 1-on-1 or group chess games. From beginners to ranked champions, all skill levels are welcome! This program will be provided by Mint Hill library volunteers.
Chess Free Play at South County Regional Library
Sundays, March 9 to April 6, 2025
2:15 to 3:45 p.m.
South County Regional Library
5801 Rea Road, Charlotte, NC
Preteens and teens
Free (register at link above for the event you’d like to attend)
Chess sets will be available, and preteens and teens can test their skills against new opponents at these drop-in gatherings! This program is led by Teen Volunteers with support from South County Regional Library staff.
Chess Time! At West Boulevard Library
Every Wednesday through December 17
6 to 7 p.m.
West Boulevard Library
2157 West Boulevard, Charlotte, NC
Age 5 through adults
Free (register at above link for the event you’d like to attend)
Enjoy an afternoon of leisurely play and friendly competition. Learn the foundational principles of the game and see how chess encourages cooperation, strategic thinking and problem solving skills. All ages and skill levels are welcome!
Chess Free Play at Mountain Island Library
Every Thursday through May 29, 2025
4 to 4:45 p.m.
Mountain Island Library
4420 Hoyt Galvin Way, Charlotte, NC
Ages 5-12
Free (no registration required)
Chess sets will be available for the hour, and school-age and preteen patrons can test their skills against new opponents at these drop-in gatherings.
The Square Table: Community Chess
Every Thursday through June 19, 2025
5 to 6 p.m.
Sugar Creek Library
4045 N Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC
Teens and adults (ages 12+)
Free (no registration required)
Join us at The Square Table for Sugar Creek’s Community Chess drop in! Players of all skill levels are encouraged to attend this classic board game.
Chess Club at Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library
2nd and 4th Wednesday of month through December 10, 2024
6 to 7 p.m.
Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library
2412 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC
All ages
Free (register here for 2nd Wednesdays and here for 4th Wednesdays)
Teens will learn chess basics, strategies, tactics and test their skills in 1-on-1 or group chess games. From beginners to ranked champions, all skill levels are welcome!
This program will be provided by Allegra Westbrooks Regional (Beatties Ford Road)
library staff, and is recommended for all ages/families.
Double-Check Before You Head Out!
We make every effort to make sure that everything on Charlotte on the Cheap is 100% accurate.
However, sometimes things change without notice, and we are not always notified. It’s also possible that we can make a mistake.
Please verify all deals and events with the venue or organizer before you go.
You might also be interested in:
- Subscribing to Charlotte on the Cheap’s email list
- Best skyline views in Charlotte for photos
- Best food and drink deals in Charlotte
- 50+ walks and hikes in and near Charlotte
- Free and cheap things to do this week
- Charlotte Hotel Deals
- Charlotte on the Cheap events calendar
- Charlotte area farmers markets
Charlotte on the Cheap is a member of 
Leave a Reply