Chess Meetups/Clubs
Kids Welcome
Meets every Thursday night between 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Panera at 2845 Bell Rd in Auburn. You'll see it from Highway 49. Beginners welcome. The club director is Arthur Braden (916-768-5042). Rated UCSF tournaments are offered every other week but are optional.
Nevada County Chess Club
Meets every Wednesday at from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM at Madelyn Helling Library at 980 Helling Way in Nevada City, CA.
5-Mile House Chess
Meets every Saturday from 2:00 PM-5:00 PM at 5-Mile House at 18851 CA-20 in Nevada City, CA.
The Corvus Chess Club
Meets every Tuesday at 4:00 PM at Corvus Bakery at 154 Mill St in Grass Valley, CA
Nevada County Homeschool Chess Club
For homeschooled kids. Meets every 1st and 3rd Friday from 2:00–4:00 PM at Pioneer Park in Nevada City. They typically set up at the picnic tables labeled “Picnic Right,” located just past the Horseshoe Pit. Email nchomeschoolchess@gmail.com to join the mailing list for meetup reminders and other club happenings.
The turnout at Corvus Bakery started slowly, but the event quickly proved to be anything but dull. The owner joined in for a game, and before long, more chess players began arriving. Players of all skill levels sat down at the boards, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. Between games, participants shared stories, discussed strategy, and enjoyed conversations about chess while sampling Corvus Bakery's delicious food and drinks.
The Corvus Chess Club
June 23, 2026
Auburn Chess Club
June 19, 2026
More than 30 people attended the Auburn Chess Club, led by Arthur Braden. Some competed in the club’s bi-weekly tournament, while others enjoyed casual games and conversation. Children and adults of all ages and skill levels—from beginners who had just learned the rules to Chess Master Arthur Braden—gathered to share their passion for chess. It was a wonderful example of how this 1,500-year-old game continues to bring people together and remains as popular as ever.
Those interested in learning more about the club, upcoming events, and chess activities in the Auburn area can visit Arthur Braden’s website: Auburn Chess and Scrabble Club.
Braden will also serve as Chief Tournament Director for the upcoming Gold Country Scholastic Chess Fall Tournament at Magnolia Intermediate School. The tournament is being organized by Donald Walsh, who oversees chess clubs at Magnolia Intermediate School and Arete Charter Academy and has been working to expand scholastic chess opportunities throughout the region. The Auburn Chess Club is part of a vibrant local chess community that welcomes players of all ages and skill levels.