World Boardgaming Championship

Location: Lancaster, PA (though it has moved twice in the past)

Last: August 5 - August 10, 2008

Next: August 4 - August 9, 2009

Online: http://www.boardgamers.org/

Guild: WBC Guild

What?: Competitive and open boardgaming.

Why?: Over 125 scheduled events that always occur. There are no no-show GMs and events are well run by volunteers who make sure the event is a success. No tickets to purchase; just walk up at the scheduled time (or roam around the open gaming room) and join in the fun.

How Many?: About 1,500 attendees.

Tournaments: Almost any popular game has a tournament. Even the least well-attended tournaments draw 16 players. Some events draw over 200. Plaques are awarded to the top finalists and champion in each event. Tournaments are also staged for the 12-and-under set, complete with plaques.

Open Gaming: Significant amount of open gaming space is allocated and is quite popular. The kid gamer room includes a library of games.

See list of other conventions