Midwest Gaming Classic Marks 25th Anniversary With Expanded Show and New Experiences April 24–26

MILWAUKEE, WI — What began on June 30, 2001 as JagFest 2K1, a small gathering of Atari Jaguar enthusiasts, has grown into the nation’s largest retro gaming event. Once centered on a single console, Midwest Gaming Classic now brings together every major format of play, from retro and modern consoles to arcade and pinball machines, tabletop role-playing games, collectible card tournaments, indie developers, cosplay, and live entertainment.

Today the show spans more than 350,000 square feet at Milwaukee’s Baird Center and features over 10,000 playable games, 200 vendors, and 100 industry guests. Attendance has grown to more than 36,000 participants, reflecting a steady expansion from its early grassroots beginnings. All games are included with admission, and children under 9 attend free. Midwest Gaming Classic returns to Milwaukee’s Baird Center April 24–26, 2026, celebrating its 25th anniversary as “Where All Gamers Come Home.”

At its heart, Midwest Gaming Classic is a community-powered homecoming for gaming culture, where collectors, clubs, companies, and creators share their passions side by side. The experience includes wall-to-wall arcade games set to free play, consoles from every generation, tabletop gaming, vendor showcases, live entertainment, and competitive zones throughout the weekend. Attendees can participate in cosplay and tournaments, discover homebrew creations, expand their collections, and explore the evolving world of gaming across generations.

In 2005, no show was held, a pause that became a defining turning point. When the event’s future was uncertain, a group of dedicated fans stepped in to help staff the show, secure larger venues, and rebuild it with a more formal community-led structure. What might have remained a small gathering instead grew into a community-built tradition. That independent, fan-driven spirit continues to define Midwest Gaming Classic today.

“We’ve always tried to create a place where everyone feels welcome, where you can share what you love and find your people. After 25 years, that idea still guides everything we do,” says co-founder Dan Loosen.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.