PAX East, one of the largest gaming conventions in the United States, is returning to Boston in 2026 with a lineup that includes major publishers, indie developers, and tabletop gaming companies. Organizers say this year’s event will feature more than 300 exhibitors and a wide range of panels, concerts, and community events for fans.
The convention will take place from Thursday, March 26, through Sunday, March 29, 2026, at the Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center, the venue formerly known as the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.
Over 300 Exhibitors Set for PAX East 2026
Event organizers ReedPop and Penny Arcade announced the complete expo hall lineup this week, highlighting companies across video games, hardware, publishing, and tabletop gaming.
Major exhibitors scheduled to appear include:
- Nintendo
- Blumhouse Games
- Double Fine Productions
- NIS America
- GIANTS Software
- Dread XP
They join previously announced participants such as IllFonic, Gravity Co. Ltd., and Atari Interactive.
The expo floor will also feature well-known technology and accessory brands including Logitech and Lexar, along with entertainment and comic publisher IDW Publishing.
With hundreds of exhibitors filling the convention hall, PAX East continues to serve as one of the largest gaming showcases on the East Coast, drawing thousands of attendees from across the United States.
Local Massachusetts Developers to Showcase Games
In addition to major studios, the event will highlight regional game developers from Massachusetts.
Studios including Red Rabbit Games, Daylight Basement Studio, and AAAA Games will present their projects during the convention. Their presence reflects the growing game development scene in the Boston area and throughout New England.
PAX East has historically served as an important platform for smaller studios to connect with players, media, and potential publishing partners.
Tabletop Gaming Also Takes the Spotlight
While video games dominate much of the show floor, tabletop gaming will also play a significant role at PAX East 2026.
Attendees will be able to explore analog experiences from companies including:
- Magic: The Gathering
- Dice Throne
- Misty Mountain Gaming
- UVS Games, known for Godzilla: Reign of Kaiju
These tabletop sections often attract large crowds, as many attendees use the event to try new board games, card games, and role-playing experiences with friends.
Panels, Cosplay Meetups, and Live Performances
Beyond the expo hall, the event will feature panels and live entertainment across the four-day schedule.
One of the headline discussions will focus on the upcoming asymmetrical stealth horror game Halloween, presented by developer IllFonic. The panel will include Malek Akkad, president of Compass International Pictures, with John Carpenter, director of the original 1978 Halloween film, joining virtually.
Other planned programming includes:
- A panel dedicated to the long-running online game Warframe
- Cosplay meetups, including a celebration for the 30th anniversary of Resident Evil
- Live concerts featuring indie pop artist mxmtoon and the Sixth Station Trio
These community events have long been a central part of PAX conventions, offering fans opportunities to meet creators, celebrate favorite franchises, and connect with other gamers.
Organizers Anticipate Another Large Turnout
Jerry Holkins, co-founder of PAX, Penny Arcade, and the Child’s Play Charity, expressed excitement about the upcoming event.
“Mentally, I’m already there,” Holkins said. “My keyboard is super messed up. I’m just gonna put up with it until the show. They got a bunch of real weird keyboards there.”
The comment reflects PAX’s reputation for showcasing experimental gaming hardware, custom PC builds, and unique peripherals alongside traditional games.
Ticket Prices and Badge Options
Badges for PAX East 2026 are currently available for purchase.
Ticket options include:
- Four-day badge: $250
- Saturday badge: $82
- Thursday, Friday, or Sunday badge: $75 each
- BYOC (Bring Your Own Computer) badge: $55
The BYOC area allows PC gamers to bring their own systems to the event for multiplayer sessions and community tournaments.
A Major Event for the Gaming Community
Since its launch in 2004, PAX has grown into one of the most recognizable gaming conventions in North America, hosting multiple events each year across different cities.
With hundreds of exhibitors, industry panels, and community activities, PAX East 2026 is expected to once again transform Boston into a hub for gaming culture when it returns this March.
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