The new season of the European Poker Tour by PokerStars kicks off in Paris. The French capital is hosting the 2026 season-opening festival, running February 18 — March 1, and featuring a total of 52 events.
The comprehensive schedule features something for every bankroll, with more affordable tournaments lined up during the first few days, leading into the main EPT Paris action.
The festival takes place at the Palais des Congrès, and this is the third time Paris has been on the European Poker Tour schedule since its debut in 2023. On both occasions, there was a great turnout, and we expect nothing less for the 2026 EPT Paris, with French players showing up in force, alongside those from all over Europe and beyond.
- Deposit $10 or more and get a 100% bonus match up to $600
- One of the best mobile apps
- Biggest MTT guarantees
Plenty of Action for All Bankrolls
It has become customary for European Poker Tour stops to warm things up with lower buy-in events during the first week, with higher tournaments, including the Main Event, kicking in during the second week.
EPT Paris sticks to that formula, with the €1,650 PokerStars Open as one of the first major events on the docket, running Feb 18 – 23. The €825 PokerStars Cup takes place on Feb 21 – 22.
The second week of the festival kicks things into higher gear, with the €5,300 EPT Paris Main Event, €100,000 High Roller, €3,250 Mystery Bounty, and €10,300 EPT High Roller.
Of course, this is just a fraction of the entire schedule, as there are 52 events on offer over the 10-day festival (including a number of satellites to flagship events). If you’re on a tighter budget, there are even a few tournaments that you can enter for €550 and under.
Spin & Go Championship Live Is Coming
One event that is likely to be in the spotlight during this year’s Paris festival is the Spin & Go Championship Live. While this is not an open event, it will certainly attract a lot of attention from poker media, fans, and other players.
The tournament will see 81 players, who qualified for their seats or received an invitation, battle it out for the prize pool of €300,000. It will be two days of fast-paced action, leading up to the Main Event.
Fans at home will get to enjoy it as well, as PokerStars will be streaming the event on its official channels. The live Spin & Go action is a lot of fun to watch, and it’s a nice change of pace from the usual tournament grind.
Other Fun Activities at EPT Paris 2026
Although the main action will be taking place on the tournament floor, the PokerStars LIVE team has prepared a number of fun activities for players looking to chill out and blow off some steam.
There are two welcome drink parties on the docket, one for PokerStars Open (on Feb 19) and the other one for the EPT (on Feb 24). All players are welcome to join and enjoy some fine food, quality beverages, and an always great atmosphere.
On February 21, there is a Quiz Night, giving players a chance to compete against each other in general knowledge instead of their understanding of hand charts, ranges, and GTO strategy.
The next day, on the evening of February 22, it is Games Night, featuring a variety of games that are not poker — because who’d want to play more poker after a long day at the tables, right?
Plus, everyone will have a chance to get a taste of live Spin & Go action with free tournaments offering generous prizes and even a chance to win a Silver Pass.
All in all, EPT Paris will open the 2026 season of the European Poker Tour in style, and by the time it’s all said and done, more than a few players will emerge with big cashes, shiny trophies, and unforgettable experiences.
