Events
The full 2026 programme for NGF26 is here! Presented by The Forum with Lead Partner Norwich University of the Arts.
Featured events
Give Us A Cluedo: The History of British Games
6pm - 7.15pm : The Auditorium
Skill Trees: How Learning to Make Games Can Unlock Many Careers Paths
1pm - 2pm : The Auditorium
Tamagotchis and Death in the Internet Age
11am - 12noon : The Auditorium
Work in Norwich Networking Evening
6.30pm - 9pm : The Forum
Ashens: Dead Player Walking
5pm - 6pm : The Auditorium
The Big NGF26 Quiz & After-Party
7pm - 10.30pm : The Forum
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Sun 31 May8am - 6pmThe Royal Arcade Trail
Explore the beautiful historic Royal Arcade during Norwich Games Festival 26 and find the clues hidden in selected shop windows to be in with a chance of winning an amazing prize.
Family friendlyActivityFree -
Sat 30 May10am - 4pmSocial Video Gaming Lounge
Level up your day at the free Social Gaming Lounge. Drop in, play, and connect at John Lewis Norwich.
ActivityFamily friendlyFreeDrop-inVideo Games -
Sat 30 May10am - 4pmThe Game Cave
Join the Norwich Retro Gamers and friends to experience a vast range of playable retro consoles and computers. Whether new or nostalgic, there will be something for everyone.
FreeRetroVideo GamesThe ArenaFamily friendlyDrop-inActivity -
10am - 4pmThe Arena - Relaxed Day
Curated specifically for those with SEND, families and friends and those interested in learning more about supporting SEND, the Relaxed Day will be a bit quieter, a bit more spaced out, and content is tailored to SEND activities, education and industry practice.
SENDFamily friendlyThe ArenaFreeArts & CraftsRetroTabletopSports & ExerciseVideo GamesWellbeingIndustryDrop-in -
Times varyThe Wayward Adventurers Guild
No matter your age, ability or experience with generating creative ideas or drawing, the Wayward Adventurers Guild will guide you safely through fun, engaging and immersive experiences.
ActivityWorkshopFamily friendlyThe ArenaArts & CraftsFreeDrop-in -
10am - 10.40amEffective Learning Through Games - Emotions
How Can We Stop 'Catching' Each Other's Emotions During Meltdowns? This workshop explores how emotion cards and game mechanics, practical tips and tools can keep everyone in the family calmer during the difficult times.
SENDFamily friendlyWorkshopWellbeing -
Sat 30 May10am - 4pmGame Anglia's Norwich Games Festival Jam - Play and Vote Zone
In the run-up to Norwich Games Festival 2026, game designers and developers have been busy creating brand new, incredible games that you get to play for the very first time at NGF!
Family friendlyFreeVideo GamesThe ArenaShowcaseDrop-in -
Open daily from 10amThe Gaming Lounge
Join us in the cosy board game and puzzle lounge where hosts John 'Actualol' Purkis, Slice + Dice and Norwich Games Convention will teach you how to play new, traditional and locally made tabletop games.
FreeFamily friendlyTabletopThe ArenaActivityWellbeingRetroDrop-in -
Times varyThe Sunflower Snug
The Sunflower Snug is a calm and relaxed space, open to all, that has been specifically designed with the support of SEND specialists to welcome those who may find attending the main Festival challenging.
SENDFamily friendlyWellbeingVideo GamesArts & CraftsFreeTabletop -
Multiple drop-in sessionsUnplugged Tots
Hands on, play based activities where children explore STEAM and coding through creativity and imagination - all screen-free.
ActivityFor kidsFreeArts & CraftsWellbeing