What does Main Event mean in poker?

Main Event is the headline tournament of a series or festival. It usually carries the highest status, the biggest profile, and the most attention from both players and the audience.

Why does it matter?

The Main Event is generally seen as the centrepiece of the whole series. It often comes with a higher buy-in, tougher competition, and more prestige attached to the win. It is not a separate poker format, but a tournament’s status within the schedule. When a player says they are playing the Main Event, they mean the flagship event of the series, not just another tournament.