How to Run a Home Poker Tournament

Last Updated: June 13, 2022 References

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.

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]
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2

Start the blind at 10-20.

Then, every 15 minutes, raise them. This way the tournament doesn't run all night.^{[2]
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- 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]
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3

Keep the buy-in (entry fee) reasonable.

You don't want to discourage people from joining. A $5 entry is reasonable to most who play poker.^{[4]
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4

Pay out the players

Prize pool payouts should be as follows; 50% to the winner, 30% to second place and 20% to third place. If you are having a 2 table tournament (20 players) you could make the top 4 players winners.^{[5]
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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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