Events
The full 2026 programme for NGF26 is here! Presented by The Forum with Lead Partner Norwich University of the Arts.
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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 -
Times varyGame Design and Creation with Playlab.ai
See how the free “no code” platform Playlab.ai can be used to quickly make customised text-based adventure games or support your own game IRL game design ideas.
SENDFreeVideo GamesWorkshop -
12.30pm - 1.10pmEffective Learning Through Games - Social Skills
How Can Families Rehearse Social Skills That Feel Natural? This workshop aims to share how you can help your child build their confidence and social relationship skills through tabletop games.
SENDFamily friendlyWorkshopTabletopActivity -
2pm - 3pmHow Games Can Help Your Child Make More Friends (and Keep Them)
In this 60‑minute session, we’ll explore how both digital and tabletop games can strengthen skills like listening, empathy, turn‑taking and confidence in a way that feels natural and fun.
TalkWellbeingSENDFamily friendly -
Multiple workshopsGames, Worksheets and Resources: use AI to engage
See how the free “no code” platform Playlab.ai can be used to quickly make customised tools for your classroom.
FreeCareersWorkshopActivityAdult only -
4pm - 5pmHow to Make Tabletop Gaming More Inclusive
A panel of experienced players and professionals working in the tabletop games industry will share their insights into playing, designing, and running accessible tabletop games, both in-person and online.
PanelTalkFamily friendlyWellbeingTabletopSEND -
7pm - 9pmPlastic Invasion: How Warhammer Conquered the World
How did Games Workshop grow from two friends living out of a van to the biggest games company in Europe?
TalkAdult onlyTabletop -
Times vary
Game Design and Creation with Playlab.ai
See how the free “no code” platform Playlab.ai can be used to quickly make customised text-based adventure games or support your own game IRL game design ideas.
SENDFreeVideo GamesWorkshop