Grand Prix Survival Guide

The Grand Prix schedule has announced a date close to you, how exciting! So what do you need to know about your first Grand Prix experience. Grand Prix's are a week full of magic that goes much beyond the main event, you can have a great time without even playing in the Grand Prix itself. 

The first important bit of information is accommodations. As soon as you make plans to go to a GP you are going to want to book a hotel. Typically there is a hotel block rented out either on site or close by that will cut you a generous break on the normal price of a room. These can go quickly so I always recommend you book sooner rather than later.

Another important thing is to preregister for your event if you plan to play in the main event. If you are planning on going to a GP that you think will sell out, you should preregister as soon as you make your plans to go. There have been multiple times where I see people upset that they made travel accommodations and couldn't play in a Grand Prix because they did not preregister, don't be that person. 

With that being said, don't feel like you need to play in the main event if you don't want to. GPs are essentially conventions for magic. There is something there for everybody, there are artist booths, side events, casual games, and trading. Don't let the format dissuade you from coming out to a Grand Prix. 

Here are a few helpful tips for your first Grand Prix Experience:

1. Limit the cards you bring- GP's are going to have a LOT of people at them. Unfortunately the world we live in, there will be some less than honest people who may not have your best interest at heart. It is easy to get distracted and for your binder with all of your sweet foils to up and walk away. Don't bring what is not absolutely necessary and if you do have to bring your binder, keep an eye on it.

2. Don't be afraid to ask a judge for help- Not sure where you side event starts? Ask a judge. Not sure where the bathroom is? Ask a judge. Where can I get some good food around here? Ask a judge. Judges are at Grand Prix to make sure you are having the best experience possible, use them as resource!

3. Shop Around- Often times at GPs there are going to be lots of vendors buying and selling cards and it can be easy to get caught up in the first booth you see. However, dealers have to compete so often times I will do at least a loop or two before I sit down with a dealer to sell cards. On the subject of selling cards do not be afraid to say no. You should never feel pressured into selling your cards, dealers will not take it to heart if you decline selling them your prized cards and if they do, they probably don't deserve your buisness.

4. Go with Friends- GP's are some of my best memories. Being able to take the weekend and travel to a new city with a few of my closest friends is the best experience. Even if your entire car loses all weekend these memories are great and you will quickly forget about the loses.