The Irish Poker Tour (IPT) has revealed its first six stops for 2025, thrilling poker enthusiasts with a mix of returning favourites and an exciting new destination. This announcement comes as the €300,000-guaranteed Galway Main Event kicks off, setting the stage for another high-stakes year.
The IPT’s collaboration with Paddy Power Poker ensures plenty of opportunities for online qualifiers, enticing promotions, and boosted prize pools. Players can anticipate intense competition and a vibrant poker community throughout the tour.
A Packed Start to 2025
January promises to be a whirlwind month for the IPT, with three significant festivals on the calendar. The action began on New Year’s Day with the Galway Poker Festival at the Galmont Hotel. This festival’s €700 buy-in Main Event, running until January 6, boasts a €300,000 guarantee.
Players will have six flights to secure a spot in the final showdown, with the champion crowned on January 6. Reflecting on 2024, last year’s Galway Main Event was a smash hit, awarding €434,077 in prizes, including €83,500 to winner Derek Baker.
Next up, on January 11, the tour moves to Limerick for the €30K In A Day event at the Castleroy Park Hotel. With €20,000 of the guarantee set aside for the €200 Main Event, this stop offers incredible value. The month concludes with the Munster Poker Festival in County Cork, where the €200 buy-in Main Event promises a €70,000 guarantee out of the festival’s €100,000 total.
Big Guarantees and Bigger Opportunities
The IPT’s 2025 schedule includes ten festivals, four of which feature six-figure guarantees. Here’s a snapshot of some standout events:
- Glasgow Poker Festival (March 3-9): Taking place at the Alea Casino in Glasgow, this new addition to the tour offers £270,000 in guarantees, headlined by a £400 buy-in, £200,000 Main Event. The festival brings Scottish players into the IPT fold, adding diversity and excitement to the tour.
- St Patrick’s Weekend €100K For €100 (March 12-16): Hosted at the Green Isle Hotel in Dublin, this festival offers unparalleled value. Players can join the €100 Main Event, which guarantees €100,000, alongside side events with another €100,000 up for grabs. Last year’s champion, Gastao Silva, turned €100 into €16,000, making this event a must-play for value-seekers.
- The Monster 2025 (April 30-May 5): Also held at the Green Isle Hotel, this festival promises a massive €250,000 guarantee. The event is expected to draw players from across Ireland and beyond, making it a highlight of the spring poker calendar.
Unique Features of the Tour
The Irish Poker Tour’s success isn’t just about its guarantees; it’s about creating memorable experiences for players. Here are some highlights:
- Paddy Power Partnerships: Players can qualify for IPT events online through Paddy Power Poker. Added-value promotions, such as last-longer competitions and leaderboard bonuses, enhance the player experience.
- Diverse Destinations: From the charming Galmont Hotel in Galway to Scotland’s Alea Casino, the IPT offers players a mix of familiar favourites and new venues.
- Accessible Buy-ins: With events ranging from €100 to €700, there’s something for every bankroll.
Table of Upcoming Events
| Dates | Festival | Location | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1-6 | Galway Poker Festival | Galmont Hotel, Galway | €500,000+ |
| Jan 11 | Limerick €30K In A Day | Castleroy Park Hotel, Limerick | €30,000 |
| Jan 24-26 | Munster Poker Festival | Charleville Park Hotel, Cork | €100,000 |
| Mar 3-9 | Glasgow Poker Festival | Alea Casino, Glasgow | £270,000+ |
| Mar 12-16 | St Patrick’s Weekend €100K | Green Isle Hotel, Dublin | €200,000+ |
Looking Ahead
The Irish Poker Tour continues to grow in stature, with its mix of well-organised events, generous guarantees, and player-focused approach. As January progresses, eyes will remain on Galway as the €300,000 Main Event unfolds. Meanwhile, the broader schedule promises an exciting year for poker fans in Ireland and beyond.
Stay tuned for updates as champions emerge, records are broken, and the tour rolls on to its next destinations.
