Major online poker tournaments in Canada are primarily hosted by regulated platforms, with Ontario’s market being the most structured due to oversight by iGaming Ontario (iGO) and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). Below is an overview of key tournaments and platforms in Canada.
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Major Online Poker Tournaments in Canada 2025
PokerStars Ontario:
- Sunday Special: A flagship weekly tournament with a $100 buy-in and a $40,000 guaranteed prize pool, popular for its competitive field.
- ONCOOP and ONSCOOP: These are major annual series (Ontario Championship of Online Poker and Spring Championship of Online Poker) offering some of the largest prize pools in the region, with varied buy-ins catering to both casual and serious players.
- Known for a wide spread of games and consistent daily/weekly tournaments, making it a top choice for tournament variety.
GGPoker Ontario (WSOP Partnership):
- Ontario MILLION$: A regular high-guarantee tournament attracting players seeking big payouts.
- Sunday Deepstack: Another weekly event with substantial prize pools, ideal for deep-stack enthusiasts.
- WSOP Online Events: Unique in Canada, GGPoker offers chances to win official WSOP bracelets and rings through online satellites and tournaments, tying into global prestige.
- Hosts major series with large guarantees, appealing to high-stakes players.
888poker Ontario:
- Specializes in microstakes mystery bounty tournaments, perfect for players with smaller bankrolls.
- Runs seven tournament series annually, with daily tournaments offering value-driven prize pools.
- Known for freerolls and accessible buy-ins, catering to recreational players.
PartyPoker Ontario and BetMGM Ontario:
- These platforms share player pools, boosting tournament action.
- Offer multi-table tournaments, fast-forward cash games, and SPINS jackpots, with regular series and daily events.
- BetMGM occasionally runs smaller series with ambitious guarantees, providing good value for mid-tier players.
Bodog:
- Hosts three major series: Super Millions Poker Open, Black Diamond Poker Open, and Golden Spade Poker Open, each with over 150 events and buy-ins from $1 to $150.
- Features a $200,000 Guaranteed Tournament weekly, alongside formats like Knockouts, Progressive Knockouts, and Mystery Knockouts.
- Popular for casual players due to low entry points and diverse tournament styles.
ACR Poker (Formerly America’s Cardroom):
- Known for $1M GTD events, offering some of the largest weekly guarantees available to Canadian players.
- Runs iconic points races like The Beast, rewarding consistent play in tournaments and cash games.
BetOnline Poker:
- Highlights include Sunday Majors, with around 100 tournaments every Sunday, alongside daily events and special series.
- Features a Sit & Go leaderboard for extra prizes, appealing to active players.
Important: In Ontario, players are restricted to ring-fenced pools (only competing against other Ontarians), with all tournaments using CAD. This contrasts with other provinces, where players can access global pools on platforms like CoinPoker, ACR, or BetOnline.
How to Join an Online Poker Tournament in Canada
Step 1: Choose a Reputable Poker Site
Look for sites that are legal, secure, and offer the types of tournaments you’re interested in. For top recommendations, visit the best Poker Sites in Canada.
Step 2: Register and Verify Your Account
Sign up for an account and complete any necessary verification steps. This usually involves confirming your identity and residency.
Step 3: Make a Deposit
Fund your account using a payment method that suits you. Options typically include Interac e-Transfer, credit and debit cards, and e-wallets.
Step 4: Find a Tournament
Browse the tournament lobby to find an event that fits your schedule and bankroll. Pay attention to the buy-in amount, start time, and tournament structure.
Step 5: Register and Play
Sign up for the tournament and be ready to play when it starts. Make sure you’re familiar with the rules and format.
Best Sites for Online Poker Tournaments in Canada
Here are two top sites for Poker Tournaments in Canadian:
PokerStars
Offers a wide range of tournaments, from small buy-ins to high-stakes games. Major events like the Sunday Million and WCOOP come with guaranteed prize pools.
888poker
Runs daily freerolls, low buy-ins, and high-stakes tournaments. Big events like the XL series attract players with huge prize pools.
Legal Landscape of Online Poker in Canada
Federal Laws Governing Online Poker
So, is it legal to play online poker in Canada? The short answer is yes! While the federal government doesn’t regulate online gambling strictly, it doesn’t prohibit Canadians from playing on international sites. So you can play online poker at any International site. Although things change if you live in Ontario, let’s take a look why.
Ontario’s Online Poker Regulations
If you’re in Ontario, there’s good news. The province has legalized and regulated online poker, ensuring a safe and fair gaming environment. For the best platforms to play on, check out our list of the Best Ontario Online Poker Sites.
Types of Online Poker Tournaments
Sit & Go Tournaments
These are single-table tournaments that start as soon as enough players have registered. They’re quick, intense, and perfect for sharpening your skills.
Multi-Table Tournaments (MTTs)
MTTs involve many players across multiple tables, competing for a share of a large prize pool. They can last several hours and require endurance and strategy.
Freeroll Tournaments
Want to win real money without risking any of your own? Freerolls are free to enter and offer real cash prizes, making them ideal for beginners.
Satellite Tournaments
These tournaments offer entry into larger, more prestigious tournaments as prizes. It’s a cost-effective way to play in high-stakes games.
Bounty Tournaments
In bounty tournaments, you earn extra cash for eliminating other players. It’s a fun twist that adds another layer of strategy.
Tips for Success in Online Poker Tournaments
- Bankroll Management: Set a budget for your tournament play and stick to it. Never risk more than you can afford to lose.
- Understand Tournament Stages: Early stages require a different strategy than later ones. Be adaptable and adjust your play style as needed.
- Pay Attention to Position: Your seat at the table affects your strategy. Use your position to your advantage whenever possible.
- Take notes on Your Opponents: Take notes on other players’ behaviors and tendencies. Most poker sites allow you to add notes to specific players profile to keep track of your competitors.
- Practice Makes Perfect: The more you play, the better you’ll get. Consider joining smaller tournaments or freerolls to hone your skills without significant financial risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, playing online poker is legal in Canada, but regulations vary by province. For example, players in Ontario can only participate on tournaments against other Ontario players, while in the rest of Canada you may access worldwide tournaments.
Freeroll tournaments are excellent for beginners as they don’t require a buy-in but offer real prizes.
Ready to Start Your Tournament Journey?
- Explore the Best Ontario Online Poker Sites for top platforms.
- Check out our list of Poker Sites in Canada for more options.
