Poker fans in New England will have a rare chance to share the felt with one of the game’s most decorated players this weekend. From August 15 to 17, 17-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner Phil Hellmuth is heading to the Lilac Club Casino for its $100,000 “Beat the Champ” Tournament Weekend.
The three-day series is designed as more than just a high-stakes competition. Organizers say the goal is to combine world-class poker with a lively, fan-focused atmosphere, giving local players and spectators a memorable mix of competition and entertainment.
Friday, August 15 – Opening Day & Meet-and-Greet
Action begins Friday morning with registration for the $1,200 buy-in event, available from 9 a.m. until 1 a.m. Early arrivals can secure their seat for the weekend’s headline tournament. At 7 p.m., the spotlight shifts to the casino floor for a one-hour meet-and-greet with Hellmuth. The first 75 people in line will walk away with a signed copy of his memoir.
Saturday, August 16 – “Beat the Champ” Main Event
Saturday marks the centerpiece of the weekend. The Lilac Poker Room will host the $1,200 buy-in “Beat the Champ” tournament, offering an estimated six-figure prize pool. Knocking Hellmuth out of the event comes with an added perk: a $500 cash bounty. Registration opens at 9 a.m., with late entries accepted until 1 p.m. Play kicks off at 10 a.m. with 108 seats plus alternates.
Sunday, August 17 – Live Cash Game Finale
The weekend wraps up on Sunday with a special live cash game featuring Hellmuth from 1 to 3 p.m. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, capping off a weekend that blends top-level poker with a rare chance to face a legend across the table.
