The Marriott in Newton, Massachusetts, just outside Boston, was buzzing with activity Friday as dozens of volunteers prepared for the arrival on Saturday of nearly 600 Go players from across 
the country and around the world for the 42nd edition of the annual U.S. Go Congress.
On the fourth floor, long rows of tables in the ballroom gradually disappeared beneath Go boards, bowls of stones, and table numbers. New this year, thanks to the acquisition of additional electronic recording boards, the EJ will stream top-board games not only in the Open Division but also from the 1-dan and 1-kyu divisions.
Just outside the ballroom, registration packets stood ready for attendees. One floor below, the bright and cheerful Kids' Room was stocked with Go equipment, while the nearby Strong Players' Room was outfitted with IZIS electronic recording boards and streaming cameras. Next door, the EJ broadcast center hummed to life as the team assembled and tested the livestreaming setup.
Two floors below the main playing hall—just a quick flight of stairs away—is another new feature for 2026: the Skittles Room. Players will be able to get games reviewed by professional players, play self-paired games, participate in simultaneous exhibitions, and enjoy a variety of informal activities throughout the week.
The hotel itself offers all the expected amenities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, coffee shop, and restaurant, along with sweeping views of the nearby Charles River.
Fans who can't make it to Boston can still follow the action all week. The EJ will stream top-board games—including the new 1-dan and 1-kyu feature boards—daily on Twitch and YouTube beginning at 9 a.m., with live professional commentary starting around 10 a.m. A nightly recap show airs from 7–8 p.m.
Special broadcasts include the City League Finals on Saturday at 3 p.m., the INAF Cup Final on Monday at 8 p.m., and the return of Big Friday Night Game on July 31 at 7 p.m. All three will feature commentary by Michael Redmond 9P and Chris Garlock, who will also mark the 10th anniversary of the historic Lee Sedol–AlphaGo match.
Other professionals attending this year's Congress include Feng Yun 9P, Yoonyoung Kim 8P, Qun Wang 8P, Youngshin Lee 6P, Hai Li 5P, Ryan Li 4P, Alex Qi 3P, Yuki Tanaka 3P, Michael Chen 2P, Yeonwoo Cho 2P, and Bill Lin 1P.