Bridge tournament checklist: what to arrange and when

A bridge tournament runs smoothly when the format, room layout and scoring materials are settled before players arrive. Start with the competition structure and venue, then manage invitations, registrations and dietary requirements. On the day, leave enough time to number tables, prepare score sheets, set out cards and bidding boxes, and check the registration desk. This checklist also covers the practical details people often leave too late, including refreshments, power access and certificates.

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The plan, step by step

Every task with its own sub-checklist, in the order you'll actually need them.

Preparations

Define the competition format
2 people
Reserve play location
Check the competition schedule
Send invitations
2 people
Process registrations
Collect dietary requirements
Check registration fee
Create table numbers
Print score sheets
Prepare contest sheets
2 people
Arrange prizes and certificates
Check the shopping list
Do the shopping
2 people
Prepare participant list
Chill drinks
2 people
Set out coffee and tea
2 people
Set up tables
3 people
Set up chairs
2 people
Set up bridge tables
2 people
Set out cards and bidding boxes
2 people
Set up registration desk
Prepare snacks
3 people
Prepare soup and sandwiches
3 people

Event

Receive participants
2 people
Handle registrations
2 people
Explain the competition
Supervise the first round
2 people
Refill drinks
2 people
Serve snacks
2 people
Supervise the second round
2 people
Serve the meal
3 people
Support the third round
2 people
Supervise fourth round
2 people
Check scores
2 people
Announce the winners
Present prizes
2 people

Aftercare

Collect cards and bidding boxes
2 people
Wash dishes
3 people
Collect waste
2 people
Clean the room
3 people
Clear tables and chairs
3 people
Switch off equipment
Store supplies securely
2 people
Return borrowed materials
2 people
Publish results

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Bridge tablesqty 8
Tablesqty 3
Chairsqty 38
Tableclothsqty 8

Sports equipment

Playing cardsqty 32
Card dealingqty 32
Bied boxesqty 32
Bridge table coversqty 8
Scoreboardsqty 8
Stopwatchesqty 4
Calculatorsqty 2

Tableware

Coffee cupsqty 40
Glassesqty 40
Platesqty 40
Cutlery setsqty 40
Soup bowlsqty 40

Equipment

Coffee machinesqty 2
Kettlesqty 2
Food warmersqty 2
Extension cordsqty 3
Power stripsqty 3

Kitchen

Thermos flasksqty 4
Serving spoonsqty 4
Cutting boardsqty 2
Bread knivesqty 2
Serving traysqty 6
Coolersqty 3

Decorations

Table numbersqty 8
Competition bannersqty 2

Cleaning

Waste binsqty 4
Bucketsqty 2
Mopsqty 2
Litter pickersqty 2

Catering

Groceries

Tips

Set the competition format and check the schedule before sending invitations. Include the expected start time, number of rounds or boards, registration deadline and any fee so players know what they are signing up for.
Close registrations early enough to prepare the participant list, table numbers and score sheets. A deadline of 3 to 7 days before the tournament gives you time to follow up on missing details and dietary requirements.
Plan the room around the bridge tables first, then place chairs, table numbers, scoreboards and the registration desk. Leave clear routes between tables and keep an extra table available for supplies or late adjustments.
Prepare the scoring station before the first round, including contest sheets, calculators, stopwatches and spare playing cards. Test any electronic equipment and put extension cords and power strips where they cannot become trip hazards.
Serve refreshments without interrupting play by chilling drinks and setting up coffee, tea, soup and sandwiches before participants arrive. Check cups, glasses, plates, cutlery and soup bowls separately; these are easy to overlook when shopping.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I organise a bridge tournament?: Start planning at least 4 to 6 weeks ahead if you need to reserve a play location and invite participants. Finalise registrations and dietary requirements 3 to 7 days before the event.
How many bridge tables do I need for a tournament?: Plan one bridge table for each table of four players, then add at least one spare table if the room allows. Confirm the final number after registration closes, because late changes affect table numbers, cards and score sheets.
What should be ready before bridge players arrive?: Set up the tables, chairs, covers, table numbers, cards, bidding boxes and scoreboards before registration opens. Have the registration list, contest sheets and writing materials ready at least 30 minutes before the advertised start.
When should I prepare food and drinks for a bridge tournament?: Chill drinks and set out coffee and tea before participants arrive. Prepare soup and sandwiches early enough that serving takes no more than 10 to 15 minutes during the planned break, without delaying the next round.

Start this plan in Lizzt

Every task and item on this page, ready in your own event. Invite people, split the work, and see who has done what.