The first half of the snooker season always delivers a compelling mix of prestige events, ranking battles and career-defining moments, and 2026 looks no different.
From invitation-only classics to globe-spanning ranking tournaments, fans and bettors alike will be keeping a close eye on the calendar as the world’s best cueists jostle for silverware, prize money and momentum heading into the summer.
Whether you’re planning your viewing schedule or keeping an eye out for major opportunities around free bet offers, these are the key snooker dates to note for the first half of 2026.
Masters
11–18 January | London, England
The Masters is one of snooker’s most iconic events and traditionally kicks off the year in style. Held at Alexandra Palace in London, this invitation-only tournament features the world’s top 16 players, ensuring high-quality matchups from the very first round.
With no qualifiers and no easy draws, the Masters is often a true test of form and temperament after the festive break. A strong showing here can set the tone for the months ahead, while an early exit can raise questions about a player’s early-season sharpness.
World Grand Prix
3–8 February | Hong Kong
The World Grand Prix continues its recent expansion into Asia, with Hong Kong hosting this lucrative ranking event. Restricted to the top 32 players on the one-year ranking list, the tournament boasts substantial prize money and consistently attracts the sport’s elite performers.
Its compressed format and high stakes make it one of the most intense weeks on the calendar. For players hovering around the top 16 or top 32 cut-off points, the World Grand Prix can have major implications for seeding and qualification later in the season.
Players Championship
17–22 February | Telford, England
Another event limited to the season’s top performers, the Players Championship features only the top 16 players on the one-year ranking list. Hosted in Telford, it’s often viewed as a form guide for the closing stages of the campaign.
With every match contested between in-form players, margins are fine, and consistency is key. It’s also a crucial stop for those chasing Tour Championship qualification, making every frame count.
Welsh Open
23 February–1 March | Llandudno, Wales
The Welsh Open is one of snooker’s longest-running ranking tournaments and forms part of the Home Nations Series. Held in Llandudno, it is known for its open draw and potential for surprise runs from lower-ranked players.
For top players, it’s a chance to add a prestigious title to their CV. For others, it represents a vital opportunity to earn ranking points and prize money in a relatively level playing field.
World Open
16–22 March | Yushan, China
The World Open sees the tour return to China, where snooker continues to enjoy immense popularity. Held in Yushan, this ranking event often features long days, extended formats and challenging conditions that reward patience and resilience.
Historically, the World Open has produced a mix of established champions and breakthrough winners, making it a fascinating spectacle as the season approaches its climax.
Tour Championship
30 March–5 April | Manchester, England
The Tour Championship is the final event in the Players Series and is reserved for the top eight players on the one-year ranking list. Hosted in Manchester, it offers long matches and elite-level competition throughout the week.
Often seen as a dress rehearsal for the World Championship, the Tour Championship can be a key indicator of who is peaking at the right time — and who may be running out of steam.
World Championship
18 April–4 May | Sheffield, England
The undisputed pinnacle of the snooker season, the World Championship at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield remains the sport’s ultimate test. Spanning over two weeks, it demands stamina, mental strength and tactical excellence like no other event. Legacies are defined here. For some, it’s a chance to cement greatness; for others, to finally break through on snooker’s biggest stage. Every frame is scrutinised, and every mistake magnified.
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