How to organise a Klaverjas tournament

Start by fixing the format, venue and number of tables before inviting players. Klaverjas works best when the rules, scoring method and match schedule are clear before the first deal. Close registrations early enough to prepare table numbers, score sheets, prizes and dietary information. On the day, set up the registration desk and scoring table before players arrive, then keep rounds moving with a visible clock or bell.

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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

1
Reserve venue
2
Set tournament rules
2 people
3
Determine prize schedule
2 people
4
Send invitations
2 people
5
Open registrations
6
Process registrations
7
Collect dietary requirements
8
Close the participant list
9
Arrange the table layout
2 people
10
Create the match schedule
2 people
11
Prepare score sheets
12
Order prizes
13
Checking prizes
14
Do the shopping
2 people
15
Chill drinks
2 people
16
Set out tableware
2 people
17
Open venue
2 people
18
Set up tables
4 people
19
Set up chairs
3 people
20
Number the tables
2 people
21
Lay out playing cards
2 people
22
Set up the scoring table
2 people
23
Set up registration desk
2 people
24
Prepare coffee and tea
2 people
25
Set out snacks
2 people

Event

26
Receive participants
3 people
27
Register entry fees
2 people
28
Give the tournament explanation
29
Supervise the first round
2 people
30
Process round one scores
2 people
31
Refill drinks
2 people
32
Supervise the second round
2 people
33
Serve sandwiches
3 people
34
Process round two scores
2 people
35
Support the third round
2 people
36
Process round three scores
2 people
37
Supervise fourth round
2 people
38
Check the final standings
2 people
39
Announce the winners
40
Present prizes
2 people
41
See participants off
2 people

Aftercare

42
Collect cards and forms
2 people
43
Clear tables and chairs
4 people
44
Wash dishes
3 people
45
Collect waste
2 people
46
Clean the venue
3 people
47
Return materials
2 people
48
Send out the results
49
Store leftover groceries
2 people

What to bring

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

Furniture

Game tablesqty 8
Chairsqty 40
Registration desk
Tableclothsqty 8
Coat rack

Game materials

Playing cardsqty 12
Score sheetsqty 100
Pensqty 50
Clipboardsqty 8
Calculatorsqty 4
Table numbersqty 8
Competition clock
Bell
Prizesqty 6

Tableware

Coffee cupsqty 45
Drinking glassesqty 45
Platesqty 45
Cutlery setsqty 45
Teaspoonsqty 45
Serving plattersqty 8
Serving traysqty 4

Kitchen

Coffee machinesqty 2
Kettlesqty 2
Thermos flasksqty 4
Coolersqty 3
Cutting boardsqty 3
Bread knivesqty 3

Decorations

Welcome sign
Directional signsqty 6
Name badgesqty 45

Equipment

Power stripsqty 4
Extension cordsqty 4

Cleaning

Waste binsqty 4
Broomqty 2
Dustpan and brushqty 2
Mopqty 2

Catering

Groceries

Tips

Set the player limit before opening registration. Each table needs four players, so confirm the final list at least 3–5 days before the tournament and prepare for any late cancellations.
Write the tournament rules and prize schedule before sending invitations. Include the number of rounds, match duration, scoring method, tie-break procedure and when prizes will be awarded.
Create the match schedule after registrations close, not on the morning itself. Print one copy for the registration desk and place table numbers where players can see them.
Set up the room in a fixed order: tables and chairs first, then table numbers, cards, score sheets, pens and clipboards. Leave a clear route to the registration desk and scoring table.
Prepare refreshments before the first round begins. Chill drinks in advance, fill coffee and tea stations, and put snacks, cups, glasses and plates out so serving food does not interrupt scoring.

Frequently asked questions

How many players do you need for a Klaverjas tournament?: You need four players per table for a standard four-player game. Set the registration limit in multiples of four, then keep a short reserve list in case someone cancels before the participant list closes.
How far in advance should I organise a Klaverjas tournament?: Allow at least 3–4 weeks for a small tournament. Reserve the venue first, open registrations next, and close the participant list 3–5 days before the event so you can finish the schedule and print score sheets.
How long does a Klaverjas tournament take?: Plan roughly 3–5 hours, depending on the number of rounds and breaks. Add time for registration before the start and allow at least 15 minutes at the end for checking scores and presenting prizes.
What do I need at each Klaverjas table?: Prepare playing cards, score sheets, pens and a table number for every table. Keep spare pens, calculators and extra score sheets at the scoring table, and use a competition clock or bell to signal round changes.

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