Frequently Asked Questions

The next Classic Game Fest is on JULY 25-26-27, 2025.

Classic Game Fest – EVENT HOURS:

Friday from 3:00pm-8:00pm (VIP passes get in early at 1:00pm!)

Saturday from 10:00am – 7:00pm (VIP passes get in early at 9:00am!) 

Sunday from 10:00am – 5:00pm (VIP passes get in early at 9:00am!)

The event will be hosted at the Palmer Events Center near downtown in Austin, Texas.

Please note: Enter the building parking garage headed from westbound Barton Springs Rd.

Check out the schedule for the latest lineup. Past events have included classic games such as The Legend of Zelda, Contra, MegaMan, NBA Jam, Street Fighter II, King of Fighters 98, Mortal Kombat, Super Smash Bros. 64,Super Mario Kart, and more!

Yes! There are several badge types for purchase:

VIP – THREE-DAY wristbands – grants you access to the convention early EVERY day, include special gifts/access/discounts/etc,  and these can be used to get into CGF all weekend.

THREE DAY wristbands – gets you access to the convention all three days during normal hours all weekend.

ONE DAY wristbands – Available for one day access on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday only.

KIDS 10 & UNDER – FREE! – As always, kids under 10 get in FREE anytime during CGF, however, ALL KIDS must be accompanied by an adult at all times.  Thank you!

Wristbands may be picked up at the Palmer Events Center SOUTH lobby (just look for the “Wristband Pickup” table) on

Fri, JULY 25 from 1pm (VIP) or 3pm – 8pm (REG)

Sat, JULY 26 from 9am (VIP) or 10am – 7pm (REG)

Sun, JULY 27 from 9am (VIP) or 10am – 5pm (REG)

Early wristband pickup for online orders may also be done at ANY Texas location of GAME OVER VIDEOGAMES from April 1- July27 – or while supplies last!

Bring a print out of your QR code receipt if possible for faster check-in. Also, you will need your name, email, and/or a photo ID to pick them up!

No. Please plan ahead and remember that each badge must be picked up by the individual listed on the wristband registration. You cannot bring their photo ID to claim their wristband.

Yes, CGF Wristbands will be sold at the door, but pricing at the door will be HIGHER than early or online purchases, so please buy online in advance to SAVE MONEY!

No. We’re sorry, but Classic Game Fest has a strict NO REFUNDS policy.

Yes, and that information can be found here.

Yes, and that can be found here.

While we try and make activities family-oriented and fun for all ages, some games do contain violent content (e.g., Mortal Kombat). Kids under 10 are welcome to participate with parental approval and must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

LIMITED Paid parking in the Palmer Events Center garage is available for $10 per day in the parking garage located next to the venue. Entrances can be found on Riverside Drive near South 1st Street and Barton Springs Road between Bouldin and Dawson Streets.  This garage fills up FAST, so please arrive EARLY to get a spot!

Additional parking is available in the garage at One Texas Center (and office building nearby).  This is just about a block away on Barton springs rd.

Local buses make frequent stops nearby and bicycle parking is available at bike racks located outside the entrances to the parking garage.  Plus, UBER and LYFT are great options too!

Location

Enjoy 100,000+ square feet of retro video games and fun at the Palmer Events Center. Overlooking Lady Bird Lake and the downtown Austin skyline, the Palmer Events Center is conveniently located only a short walk from many hotels, restaurants, bus stops, and bike rental stations.

PALMER EVENTS CENTER

900 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78704

 

 HOTELS

Find family-friendly accommodations nearby!

RESTAURANTS & FOOD TRAILERS

Enjoy many popular restaurants within walking distance!

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