Puzzle competition for beginners
A plain guide to your first speed night: what happens, what the rules usually allow, what to pack, and where to look.
What happens at a speed night
Most club nights work like this: you register, sit at a table, get the same puzzle as everyone else (or the same piece count), and start when the organizer says go. When you finish, you raise a hand or stop a timer. Some nights are casual; some post times on a board.
Championships (including USA Jigsaw Nationals) run timed prelims and finals in solo, pairs, and teams formats. Local brewery or library nights are usually friendlier places to start.
Timing and rules (USAJPA championship baseline)
For USAJPA championship events, the published rules allow:
- Box-top holders
- One sorting tray ≤ 17×24" per puzzler
- Headphones if they stay quiet
Not allowed: scoops, extra lights, magnifiers, table risers, or cell phone calls.
Source: USAJPA Championship Rules. Local club nights often relax these — ask the host.
What to bring
- Yourself and any entry fee the organizer lists.
- A sorting tray that fits the host’s rules (championships: one tray ≤ 17×24").
- Optional quiet headphones if the venue is loud.
- Water if the venue allows outside drinks (Nationals FAQ covers food/drink for that event).
How to find one
- PieceDrop events — by state, online, and calendar
- Submit a night if you organize one (reviewed before listing)
- USAJPA events
- For the big March championship: Nationals 2027 hub and usajigsaw.org/nationals-27
FAQ
Do I need to be fast to go to a puzzle night?
No. Local speed nights welcome first-timers. Nationals and big championships are more competitive; start with a club night near you.
What can I bring under USAJPA championship rules?
The published championship rules allow box-top holders, one sorting tray up to 17×24 inches per puzzler, and quiet headphones. Scoops, extra lights, magnifiers, table risers, and cell phone calls are not allowed. Local nights may be looser — ask the organizer.
How do I find a night near me?
Use our events list by state, or check USAJPA’s other-events page. Clubs can also submit a night for review on our submit form.
