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PTPoker Tournaments in Massachusetts in 2024 – MA Poker Tournaments Schedule & Results
Read on and learn about the biggest poker tournaments in the Bay State
If you’re a poker player in Massachusetts, then you’re lucky! Live poker has been legal in the state since the passage of the Expanded Gaming Act in 2011. However, your options to play live poker tournaments in MA are limited to the two local cardrooms, Encore Boston Harbor and MGM Springfield. These poker rooms offer cash games on a regular basis and occasional tournaments.
As for online poker tournaments, things aren’t that simple. Internet poker is not legal in Massachusetts, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get in on the action. Many players turn to offshore poker sites, which are not regulated by the state. Using these can be a convenient way to participate in poker tournaments remotely, but make sure to do your homework and only play on trusted platforms.
This guide has got you covered on all matters related to online poker tournaments in Massachusetts: from what’s legal to where to find the latest tournament schedule.
Poker Tournaments in Massachusetts
Live poker has been legal in Massachusetts since the passage of the Expanded Gaming Act in 2011. This law allows up to three casinos to be opened in the state, two of which currently have dedicated poker rooms. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) regulates and oversees all forms of gambling in the state, including live poker. The agency ensures that all games are conducted fairly and responsibly and that all licensed casinos act in accordance with state laws and regulations, including those pertaining to table games.
Home poker games are regarded as legal as long as they meet certain criteria. According to state law, these games are considered to be “social gambling” as long as they are conducted in a private place, the host does not take a cut or commission from the pot, and all players have a fair shot at winning.
However, it is important to note that if the host charges an admission or playing fee, the home poker game in question is considered illegal under Massachusetts law. Additionally, it is prohibited to operate a gambling business, which includes hosting home poker games on a regular basis and profiting from them.
Online Poker Tournaments in Massachusetts
Online poker tournaments are technically not legal in Massachusetts, as there are no state-regulated poker sites. However, MA players can participate in offshore online poker tournaments.
Offshore online poker rooms offer a wide range of Hold’em and Omaha tournaments. The lineup may include freerolls — events that do not require an entry fee — as well as large guarantees, which ensure a minimum prize pool.
It’s important to note that while offshore online poker sites are not illegal in Massachusetts, they are not regulated by the state. This means that players will not have the same protections and guarantees as they would with a state-sanctioned platform. However, offshore poker rooms listed on this page have been in operation for many years and have proven to be safe and reliable options for online poker players.
The Massachusetts statutes define illegal gambling as any activity that involves betting or wagering on an event with an uncertain outcome, where the person conducting or promoting the gambling stands to profit. This includes operating a gambling business, profiting from illegal gambling, and participating in such activities.
However, the statutes do not apply to playing on offshore online poker sites, as these operate outside of the jurisdiction of US laws and regulations. Therefore, participating in online poker tournaments on offshore sites is not considered illegal under Massachusetts state law.
Land-Based Poker Tournaments in Massachusetts
Land-based poker tournaments in Massachusetts are currently only offered in two casinos, MGM Springfield and Encore Boston Harbor — the only two poker rooms in the state. The available tournaments vary in terms of buy-ins, structure, and game types, but they are generally better suited for casual players.
MGM Springfield, for example, runs $150 No Limit Texas Hold’em tournaments on Tuesdays and Thursdays, whereas $250 No Limit Texas Hold’em events take place on Saturdays. These typically have a deep stack structure and offer players the chance to win decent cash prizes.
Encore Boston Harbor also runs tournaments every now and then. You can check the casino’s website or social media for the most up-to-date schedule of events.
How to Register for an Online Poker Tournament in Massachusetts
If you’re in Massachusetts and would like to take part in an online poker tournament, offshore poker sites are a great option. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to register for an online poker tournament at an offshore website:
Choose a site from our list
First, pick a reputable poker site. You’ll find a few reliable suggestions on this page (we’ve only listed those poker rooms that have been vetted by our team for trustworthiness and safety).Register an account
Once you have chosen a site, you’ll need to create an account. This typically involves providing some basic personal information and creating a username and password.Deposit & Play
Next, you’ll need to make a deposit to participate in the tournament. Most offshore poker sites accept a variety of deposit options, including credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrency.Once you have funds in your account, you can start browsing the available tournaments. Look for the one that suits your skill level and bankroll.
To sign up for the tournament, simply click on the Register button and pay the buy-in. You will then be enrolled, and you’ll be able to see the schedule and prize pool information.
When the event begins, you’ll be seated at a virtual table with other players and dealt your cards. Play the tournament just like you would in a live setting — use your best poker strategies to try to outwit your opponents and win the largest portion of the prize pool.
Massachusetts Land-Based Casinos With Poker Tournaments
There are two card rooms in Massachusetts that offer poker tournaments, MGM Springfield and Encore Boston Harbor. Here are their addresses:| Poker room | Address | Number of poker tables |
| MGM Springfield | 1 MGM Wy, Springfield, MA 01103 | 23 |
| Encore Boston Harbor | 1 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149 | 24 |
Massachusetts Poker Tournaments Schedule
We’ll keep you posted about everything related to the upcoming tournaments, including buy-ins, prize pools, and schedules. By visiting our page regularly, you’ll stay up to date with the latest tournament opportunities and plan your participation accordingly. So, make sure to check back often for the latest updates and schedules.
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Final Thoughts
If you want to play poker tournaments in Massachusetts, you have two options — you can play in person at one of the two land-based casinos or online on offshore poker sites. These sites are not illegal, and they offer a variety of tournaments with different buy-ins and games like No Limit Texas Hold’em and Pot Limit Omaha. We’ve provided the top options on this page, so get ready to sharpen your poker skills and hit those tournaments!FAQ
Are poker tournaments legal in Massachusetts?
Yes, they are. You can participate in MA poker tournaments in person at one of the two state-regulated casinos or online on offshore poker sites.
Where can I find land-based poker tournaments in Massachusetts?
Land-based poker tournaments in Massachusetts are currently only offered in two casinos, MGM Springfield and Encore Boston Harbor.
Are offshore online poker sites illegal in Massachusetts?
No, offshore online poker sites are not illegal in Massachusetts — or, to be precise, they are not explicitly forbidden by Massachusetts statutes, which is why they are regarded as legal.
What types of tournaments can I find on offshore online poker sites?
Offshore online poker rooms offer a wide range of tournaments for Hold’em and Omaha, as well as niche poker variations like Razz and Stud. Depending on the site, you may find freerolls, shootouts, turbos, SNGs, MTTs, and more.