The World Series of Poker Circuit: Tulsa's Premier Poker Event

Poker is one of the most popular card games in the world. The World Series of Poker (WSOP) represents the competitive apex of this exciting game, with the best players in the world battling it out for prize money and honors. The WSOP has been held annually since 1970, and it continues evolving in new and exciting directions. The WSOP now promotes multiple competitive events, and these lead-up games take place in a circuit prior to the main event.

Hard Rock Tulsa is proud to once again be the host of a World Series of Poker Circuit (WSOPC) tournament, taking place March 5 through March 16, 2026 — and you're welcome to join the action! 

The WSOP Circuit

The WSOPC is a series of poker tournaments held across the world. This iconic event has been held annually since 2005, and it's getting bigger and better every year. The circuit is designed as a buildup to the World Series, with multiple events taking place to generate excitement along the way. The WSOPC features a number of poker games, including both championship and preliminary events. Championship games are always no-limit Texas hold 'em, and preliminary events include other poker variants.

For the first time in its history, the 2026 WSOP Circuit season will follow a calendar-year schedule, running from January through December. This new structure gives players a more predictable tournament calendar and strengthens the Circuit’s reputation as one of the most consistent and accessible ways to compete for WSOP gold rings.

The early part of the 2026 schedule includes domestic and international stops through May, with the season kicking off on January 7th in Durant, OK and continuing with stops across the United States and abroad. 

The lead-up circuit plays an important role in the WSOP, creating a buzz across the country and generating interest for the main event. All of these tournaments are important in their own right, as they help to attract interest in the wider poker community. Players of all skill levels can participate in the WSOPC, unlike the main event which has a $10,000 buy-in.

A Look Back at the 2025 WSOP Circuit at Hard Rock Tulsa

The 2025 WSOP Circuit stop at Hard Rock Tulsa delivered an exciting slate of tournament action that drew strong participation across all 18 ring events. Players from across the country gathered to compete, creating a competitive and energized atmosphere throughout the series.

2025 Champion was John Dollinger from Arroyo Grande, California. Beat out a field of 487 and was awarded $147,178 and his second WSOP Circuit ring. Other fan-favorite events, including the Mystery Bounty, Monster Stack, and Seniors and Ladies tournaments, also saw impressive turnouts.

With more than $2.1 million in total prize money awarded, the 2025 series further established Hard Rock Tulsa as a key stop on the WSOP Circuit and a destination for top-tier tournament poker in Oklahoma.

Tulsa as a Key WSOP Circuit Stop

Hard Rock Tulsa is a premier stop on the WSOP 2025 circuit. Positioned smack-bang in the middle of the run, it's the favorite event for many players and spectators. The casino in Tulsa is a beautiful location for poker, with high-stakes action and top-tier facilities creating an exciting atmosphere for everyone involved.

WSOP Tulsa takes place in a fully-featured casino and hotel, with a huge variety of attractions to enjoy. From electronic and table games to poker, restaurants, and bars, everything you need is right here on-site. There are also regular concerts held at Hard Rock Tulsa, with global superstars bringing world-class entertainment to the heart of Oklahoma.

If you want to experience the World Series of Poker Tulsa Circuit for yourself, we will make your trip truly special.

Exciting Tournament Schedule

Hard Rock Tulsa provides a memorable experience for all WSOPC attendees. As one of the biggest poker tournaments in America, we deliver a well-managed and action-packed schedule. The World Series of Poker in Tulsa includes a fantastic lineup of games and entertainment, from the majesty of the main event to exclusive side games and more. Whether you're a professional player or a complete newbie, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

The Tulsa circuit tournament lineup features 47 events over 13 action-packed days. The main event is a no-limit hold 'em championship, and there are also additional hold 'em events for ladies and seniors. If you're looking for something a little different, you can look forward to the Mystery Bounty and Mega Stack events during the tournament. Event buy-ins range from $140 to $1,700, and satellite qualifier buy-ins range from $75 to $140.

As the poker action unfolds, guests can also enjoy two major concerts at Hard Rock Live: Toto on Friday, March 6 and Larry the Cable Guy on Friday, March 13. It’s the perfect way to add world-class entertainment to your experience at the best poker tournament in Oklahoma. Guests can also go see country artist Craig Wayne Boyd at Track 5. on March 13.

Opportunities to Win WSOP Rings

If you want to get involved in the WSOP Circuit at Tulsa, you have an opportunity to win highly sought-after WSOP rings. These circuit rings are highly prestigious, and they can be won by anyone. While the iconic WSOP bracelet is the most treasured non-monetary prize in the poker world, WSOP rings are much more attainable to the average player.

WSOP rings were introduced in 2005 during the inaugural WSOPC, when hosting events took place at casinos around the country. Today, they remain a prized part of the most exciting Oklahoma poker event of the year. Winning a ring is a major draw for any poker player, and it can even lead to a shot at the Global Casino Championship later in the year!

The Main Event and High-Stakes Action

Lots of poker games take place during the WSOP Tulsa Circuit at multiple buy-in levels. One event stands taller than the rest, however the $1,700 buy-in main event offers a fantastic opportunity to win big. With massive prize potential and poker prestige, this is one of the most anticipated events of the circuit. 

World Series of Poker 2026 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino begins on March 4 and concludes on March 16 with the final table championship. The Main Event takes place on March 13 and 14. This event takes place over two days and two different flights.

You can also qualify for the WSOP Circuit main event by winning a satellite tournament. These competitions take place throughout the year, on a much smaller level than the WSOP itself. Satellite events have a much smaller buy-in than circuit events, and the prize is a ticket to the larger $1,700 main event. This is a fantastic opportunity for many players, as it allows them to sit at the big table for a significantly lower cost than the full $1,700 buy-in.

Tips for First-Time WSOP Players

The WSOP Circuit schedule 2024-2025 is an ideal opportunity for emerging players to get involved in tournament poker. First-time WSOP players are welcomed at Tulsa with open arms, with all skill and experience levels catered for. We offer professional guidance and transparent advice before the tournament begins, along with practical support throughout the competition. If you're new to the WSOP Circuit, the following tips are a great place to start.

• Prepare for the tournament: Have a well-studied preflop strategy, get comfortable playing deep-stacked, and be aware of stack-off thresholds.
• Think about bank roll management: Research and cement your limits, learn about buying and selling action, and be responsible with markup.
• Develop a tournament strategy: Establish healthy habits, take regular breaks, and learn how to separate individual moments from the bigger picture.

Why Hard Rock Tulsa is the Best WSOP Circuit Venue

If you want a truly memorable WSOP experience, Hard Rock Tulsa is the perfect bet. We create a fun and welcoming atmosphere for all guests to help you enjoy the tournament in full. Along with providing an outstanding poker experience, we also have premier accommodation, various dining choices, and incredible entertainment options. More than a world-class poker room, we're a must-visit destination for all poker enthusiasts.

• Comfortable accommodation options: Stay in the Hard Rock Hotel, Cherokee Hotel, or All Suite tower.
• Top-tier gaming experiences: There's a huge array of electronic and table games for you to enjoy.
• Exceptional dining: From burgers at HWY 66 Diner to fine dining at Carvers on 19 and cocktails to beer, you're always satisfied. Don't forget to check out the Food Court offerings at BRGR + CHKN, Rise Coffee & Bakery, and Dough Mama's Pizza & Sandwiches.
• World class entertainment: Famous bands and local favorites always light up the room.
• A welcoming environment: Our team is friendly and helpful at any stage of the day or night.

The WSOPC delivers world-class poker in some of America's best casinos, and we're excited to be on board. You can experience some of the nation's best players and get involved yourself for memories to last a lifetime. Away from the tables, there is so much to see and do at Hard Rock Tulsa. We deliver a full casino experience, and we have a huge variety of gaming and entertainment options available.

We are one of the best casinos in North America, where you can enjoy a huge selection of slot machines, table games, and sports betting options. Whether you're coming for the day or staying for a week, we have everything you need to enjoy this fantastic tournament in style!