The Counter-Strike 2 competitive scene in the United States is thriving in 2024, with numerous major tournaments scheduled throughout the year. Whether you're looking to attend as a spectator, participate as a player, or simply follow the action online, this comprehensive tournament calendar will help you stay informed about all the exciting CS2 events happening across the USA this year.
Major Tournaments
ESL Pro League Season 21 - North American Division
Dates: June 5-30, 2024
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Venue: Shrine Auditorium
Prize Pool: $850,000
Format: 16 teams, Group Stage followed by Single Elimination Playoffs
Notable Teams: Team Liquid, Complexity, Evil Geniuses, Sentinels, FURIA, MIBR
The North American division of the prestigious ESL Pro League returns for its 21st season, featuring the region's top teams competing for a substantial prize pool and qualification to the Global Finals. The event will be held at the iconic Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, offering an exceptional viewing experience for spectators.
Tickets are available in three tiers: General Admission ($45), Premium ($85), and VIP Experience ($175). The VIP package includes meet-and-greet opportunities with pro players, exclusive merchandise, and premium seating.
BLAST Premier: American Fall Showdown
Dates: September 12-15, 2024
Location: Miami, FL
Venue: James L. Knight Center
Prize Pool: $135,000
Format: 8 teams, Double Elimination Bracket
Notable Teams: To be determined through qualifiers
The BLAST Premier circuit makes its way to Miami for an exciting Fall Showdown featuring eight of North America's most competitive CS2 teams. The double elimination format ensures plenty of high-stakes matches, with the top two teams advancing to the BLAST Premier: Fall Finals.
This tournament is particularly significant as it offers a pathway for up-and-coming NA teams to prove themselves on an international stage. The vibrant Miami setting adds to the appeal, with the event organizers promising an immersive fan experience beyond just the matches.
IEM Dallas 2024
Dates: May 27 - June 2, 2024
Location: Dallas, TX
Venue: Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center
Prize Pool: $250,000
Format: 16 teams, Group Stage followed by Single Elimination Playoffs
Notable Teams: FaZe Clan, Natus Vincere, Team Liquid, Vitality, G2 Esports
Intel Extreme Masters returns to Dallas for another action-packed CS2 tournament featuring some of the world's best teams. As one of the most prestigious events on the calendar, IEM Dallas attracts international talent to American soil, offering fans the chance to see global superstars compete live.
The tournament serves as an important stop in the Intel Grand Slam race, with teams competing for points toward the $1,000,000 bonus prize. The event has consistently sold out in previous years, so early ticket purchase is recommended.
CS2 America Cup 2024
Dates: November 7-10, 2024
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Venue: HyperX Arena
Prize Pool: $100,000
Format: 8 teams, Single Elimination Bracket
Notable Teams: Qualification ongoing
The inaugural CS2 America Cup comes to Las Vegas, bringing together top teams from North, Central, and South America. This unique tournament celebrates the Americas region with an exclusive competition format and regional pride on the line.
Beyond the competitive matches, the event will feature showmatches between popular streamers and CS2 personalities, as well as a fan expo with the latest gaming gear from sponsors. The Las Vegas location adds an extra element of excitement to this end-of-year tournament.
Premier LAN Events
DreamHack Denver 2024
Dates: July 19-21, 2024
Location: Denver, CO
Venue: Colorado Convention Center
Prize Pool: $100,000 (Pro Tournament) + $25,000 (Open Tournament)
Format: Pro Tournament (8 teams, Double Elimination) and Open Tournament (32 teams, Swiss Format)
DreamHack returns to Denver with its signature festival approach to esports. The event features both a professional tournament with invited teams and an open tournament where amateur teams can compete for substantial prize money and recognition.
What makes DreamHack special is the accompanying festival atmosphere, with a massive BYOC (Bring Your Own Computer) LAN party, cosplay contests, artist alley, and various exhibitors. It's the perfect event for CS2 enthusiasts who want to experience gaming culture beyond just watching professional matches.
Fragadelphia 20
Dates: August 2-4, 2024
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Venue: 2300 Arena
Prize Pool: $75,000
Format: 64 teams, Group Stage followed by Double Elimination Bracket
Celebrating its 20th iteration, Fragadelphia has established itself as North America's premier open CS2 tournament. The event stays true to its grassroots origins while scaling up the prize pool and production value, creating the perfect platform for aspiring pros to make their mark.
The tournament is known for its inclusive approach, allowing teams of all skill levels to participate, from amateur squads to semi-professional organizations. Many current pros got their start at Fragadelphia, making it an exciting place to spot the next generation of CS2 talent.
Online Tournaments with LAN Finals
ESEA Advanced Season 47 Finals
Online Portion: August-October 2024
LAN Finals Dates: October 25-27, 2024
Location: Austin, TX
Venue: ESL Studios
Prize Pool: $50,000 + Promotion to ESEA Premier
Format: Regular Season followed by Playoffs for top 8 teams
The ESEA Advanced division serves as a crucial stepping stone for teams aspiring to reach the professional level. After a grueling online season, the top teams gather in Austin for the LAN finals, where they compete not only for prize money but also for promotion to ESEA Premier, one step closer to the professional leagues.
These matches are particularly intense due to the career-changing implications of the results. Many current professional players have climbed through the ESEA divisions, making this a tournament with rich competitive history and significance.
Collegiate CS2 Championship 2024
Online Qualifiers: September-November 2024
LAN Finals Dates: December 13-15, 2024
Location: Chicago, IL
Venue: Wintrust Arena
Prize Pool: $100,000 in scholarships
Format: Regional Qualifiers followed by 16-team LAN Finals
The collegiate CS2 scene continues to grow, with this championship representing the pinnacle of university-level competition. Teams represent their schools through online qualifiers, with the best earning spots at the Chicago LAN finals.
Beyond the competition itself, the event serves as a networking opportunity for students interested in esports careers, with industry panels and recruitment opportunities from esports organizations, game developers, and adjacent industries.
How to Attend
For those interested in attending these events in person, here are some helpful tips:
- Tickets: Purchase early as premium packages often sell out quickly. Most events offer single-day and full event passes.
- Accommodations: Book hotels near the venue well in advance, as many offer special rates for event attendees.
- Transportation: Consider venue proximity when booking accommodations, or research public transportation options.
- What to Bring: A valid ID for entry, comfortable clothing, a portable charger for your devices, and cash for merchandise or food.
- Fan Activities: Many events feature signing sessions with pro players, so check the schedule to avoid missing opportunities to meet your favorite teams.
Watching Online
All major tournaments will be broadcast on various platforms:
- Twitch: Primary streaming platform for most events (channels: ESL_CSGO, BLASTtv, DreamHack)
- YouTube: Alternative streaming option with VOD availability
- HLTV.org: Match schedules, results, and statistics
- Tournament Websites: Often feature multiple stream options and additional content
Participating
For teams looking to compete in open qualifiers or amateur tournaments:
- ESEA/FACEIT Platforms: Register for online qualifiers through these platforms
- Official Websites: Check tournament websites for registration details and deadlines
- Requirements: Most events require participants to be at least 16-18 years old (varies by tournament)
- Equipment: For LAN events, verify what equipment is provided versus what you need to bring
Conclusion
The 2024 CS2 tournament calendar in the USA offers exciting opportunities for players, fans, and enthusiasts at all levels. From the prestigious major tournaments to grassroots community events, there's something for everyone in the competitive CS2 ecosystem.
Stay tuned to CS Gaming Hub for detailed previews, coverage, and analysis of these events throughout the year. We'll be updating this calendar as more tournaments are announced and providing in-depth looks at the teams, stories, and moments that define the CS2 competitive landscape in America.
