A Place to Play:
An Open Chess Experience by Honor Roll Clothing x Portrait Coffee
Play is powerful. It creates space for curiosity, connection, and growth. A Place to Play is an open chess experience curated by Honor Roll Clothing and Portrait Coffee, designed to invite the community into the culture of chess through an engaging and low-barrier entry point. Whether you’re brand new to the board or a seasoned player, this is your place to explore, learn, and—most importantly—play.
Chess is one of those rare games where two people from completely different backgrounds can come together over a shared rhythm of movement, patience, and intention. We believe play is more than recreation—it’s a mindset that invites possibility. When people are in a state of play, they open up, connect, and grow.
As brand storytellers and curators of community, we’re committed to creating spaces where learning and play happen side by side—where creativity, culture, and connection can thrive. This activation uses chess as a catalyst to foster community, spark learning, and encourage thoughtful, low-pressure, and fun engagement.
Within the world of Honor Roll, chess represents more than strategy—it reflects the kind of self-awareness, focus, and adaptability that we believe build better thinkers and leaders. That’s why chess has long had a place in academic spaces, from elementary school clubs to university commons. It’s a quiet teacher of discipline, decision-making, and presence.
During this activation, we’ll have chess boards set up outdoors in Portrait Coffee’s courtyard, paired with music and a vibe that encourages fun, conversation, and learning. All experience levels are welcome—we’re here to create a space where people can connect through the game, the culture, and the community.
Come play. Come grow. Come be part of something intentional.