Festa Al Lago, this week's event on the World Poker Tour (WPT), takes place in the luxurious surroundings of the Bellagio in Las Vegas.
The seven-day event begins today (Monday October 20th) with a buy-in of $15,400 (£8,985) and starting chip stacks of 45,000 for each player.
According to the WPT, the number of money places will depend on whether more than 400 players take part, with the top 100 players rewarded with cash prizes if that number is exceeded.
However, if 300 to 399 players register, only the top 50 can finish in the money on Sunday.
At the last Festa Al Lago in October 2006, Norwegian card sharp Andreas Walnum took the $1 million first prize after outlasting a strong field of 432, with Steve Wong finishing as runner-up.
Known to be a favourite venue of several top professionals, the Bellagio Poker Room contains 40 tables and two high-limit areas, with paintings of past poker greats adorning the walls.