Stay cozy — The cold days are upon us and playing outdoors is even for the hardened chess lover … a big ask. So we came up with a plan: Meet at the cinema! The Kino Babylon has become our interim haven for the icy days. Here the moviegoers and chess enthusiasts mix and mingle before and after films. Maybe you want to combine games and film one evening? Then check out the cinema's film program.

Babylon Berlin

Vibe — Our gathering embraces a rich tapestry of backgrounds, ages, genders, and perspectives, creating a vibrant mosaic of chess enthusiasts. We value the unique contributions each individual brings, fostering an environment of acceptance, mutual respect, and warmth.

Conduct

Flexible — Our guests appreciate the ability to drop in whenever, because without exception, the event is held daily. Yes, every single day of the week. No ticket required — simply show up between 7 pm and midnight. Donations help to keep the pieces moving — we're grateful for any support.

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For beginners — As someone just starting out, we can pair you with other newcomers, and if you wish, our host can give you a crash course to help you get started with the basics of the game. With players as young as 7 years, our meetup is sure to be beginner-friendly. Attendees are also eager to share their wisdom, discuss strategies, and exchange best practices, creating a supportive and collaborative environment.

Rapid or blitz — A chess clock is used to make sure both players have a set amount of time to think. Time controls up to 10 minutes per player work rather well. After a couple of matches and rematches we rotate with other players. This way there is enough time to calculate, while also providing a fun and challenging experience for all participants.

Real pieces, real people — In a world dominated by screens and digital interactions, the average person spends over 6 hours a day on their devices. Finding ways to take a break from screens is important, and playing offline gives us the opportunity to forge real friendships. Healthy and balanced.

Word on the town — Explore the coverage we've received from various sources! Our chess meetup has garnered attention across different formats, from online articles to newspaper features. 'Daily chess evenings at the Späti – a unique appointment with Wolf Bōese,' Franz Becchi reports. 'Midnight chess at Späti offers salvation from online chess,' says Dana Hall.

Press articles

Chat — Stay connected with our vibrant community, where you can solve daily chess puzzles, stay updated with announcements, vote in polls, and coordinate event attendance. Join our lively 1500+ member chatroom on Telegram to be part of the conversation today.

On Telegram

Fresh — There isn't just one kind of chess. We play many delightful quirky variants like Duck Chess, where your feathery friend adds a playful twist to every move. Some may enjoy the adrenaline rush of Bullet as they make fast decisions against the ticking clock. Others love the dynamic chaos of Bughouse, where teamwork and rapid exchanges keep the action intense. Teams can test their telepathic connection in Hand'n'Brain. There's something for every chess enthusiast to enjoy. Oh, and of course just the regular old chess.