The 2026 U.S. Go Congress is introducing a streamlined daily schedule designed to reduce
conflicts, make it easier to plan your day, and create more shared experiences across skill levels. By tightening the core schedule and clarifying when tournaments, lectures, and special events take place, the Congress aims to give players more time for learning, play, and community—without the constant tradeoffs that have defined past years.
One of the guiding principles behind the new schedule is consolidation: fewer overlapping commitments and clearer rhythms to the day. Morning rounds, afternoon instruction and activities, and evening play are more deliberately structured, making it easier for players to participate in multiple aspects of the Congress without feeling rushed or fragmented.
Introducing the Skittles Room
One of the key changes supporting the new daily schedule is the creation of a dedicated Skittles Room—a single, central space open 24/7 that brings together game reviews, casual play, analysis, simuls, and socializing. Borrowing a long-standing tradition from chess, the Skittles Room will serve as the analytical and social heart of the Congress, with professional players staffing it during peak hours.
By consolidating activities that were previously scattered across multiple rooms and time slots, the Skittles Room makes it easier to find analysis, instruction, games, and people. Whether you’re coming straight from a tournament game, looking for professional feedback, or just want to talk Go late into the night, the Skittles Room is designed to be where the Congress community naturally gathers.
Together, the streamlined daily schedule and the new Skittles Room reflect a broader goal for 2026: less running around, more Go, and a stronger sense of shared experience.
Registration for the U.S. Go Congress is now open, with options for full-week and partial attendance. Players of all levels are encouraged to register early to secure housing, tournaments, and special events. Full details—including schedules, pricing, and updates—are available on the Congress website.
photo: at the 2025 US Go Congress; photo by Chris Garlock/American Go EJ