Dates change — always confirm
Tournament dates, entry windows, and fees change every year. This is an evergreen guide to what these events are and how to approach them — for current dates and registration, always check the official organizer's site (linked in each section). Treat anything here as orientation, not a live schedule.
What it is
The USBC Open Championships is an annual championship run by the United States Bowling Congress, famous for its enormous scale and long run as a participatory event open to amateur bowlers. It runs over many weeks, with thousands of bowlers traveling to a host city to compete. The 2026 edition heads to Reno's National Bowling Stadium for its 122nd edition.
Divisions by skill level
What makes it accessible is its division structure based on average. The event includes divisions spanning skill levels — for example a Regular Division for higher averages, a Standard Division for mid-range averages, and a Classified Division for lower averages — so you compete against bowlers of similar ability rather than being thrown in with everyone. There's a place for genuine beginners and seasoned league bowlers alike.
The events within it
Like most championships, it features multiple events — typically team, doubles, and singles — plus all-events standings that combine your scores. You can enter as part of a team from your league or, in many cases, find ways to participate without a full team. Read the official rules for the current structure and entry options.
Who can enter and how
Entry generally requires USBC membership (the sanctioning body that also tracks your league average) and registration ahead of time, with an entry fee per event. The long tournament window lets you choose your bowling dates and times — part of why so many bowlers turn it into a planned trip. Always register through the official USBC tournament site for current dates, fees, and rules.
Why it's worth doing
Beyond the competition, the Open Championships is a rite of passage — bowling on a championship stage, often at a landmark venue like the NBS, alongside thousands who share the love of the game. For many league bowlers it's the highlight of their bowling year and a great excuse for a trip (see plan a bowling trip).