rAge Nation is heading back to Fourways Mall from 27 to 29 November 2026, with gaming, esports and a bring-your-own-computer LAN on the programme. This year, organisers are expanding the event into a broader festival of gaming and digital culture, adding live entertainment and creator experiences alongside the familiar attractions.
The three-day event will take place on Level 8 of the Johannesburg shopping centre. The announcement includes cosplay, anime and tabletop gaming, as well as technology displays, competitions, interactive experiences and show specials.
There’ll also be space for local game development and an artist alley. For anyone who’s followed South Africa’s school esports scene, it’s another opportunity to see gaming communities come together in person. The organisers are pitching the weekend at casual players and families as well as those who already have a gaming rig ready to pack.
This year’s visual theme is retrofuturism, drawing on gaming’s past while looking towards what comes next. The full festival schedule hasn’t been published yet, so specific performances and activity times are still to come.
Bringing your own setup?
The Orbit BYOC LAN returns, with participants bringing their own PC, console or laptop and the equipment they need to play. Organisers provide power, a table and chair, and internet access.
You’ll need a dedicated BYOC LAN pass to enter that area, but it also includes access to the festival on all three days. The LAN announcement lists casual tournaments and dedicated shower facilities among this year’s additions, which should be welcome news for anyone planning to settle in for the weekend. LAN bookings are available separately on Howler.
Dates, hours and tickets
The festival will open from 9am to 6pm each day, from Friday 27 November to Sunday 29 November. All ages are welcome, and children under seven enter free. Paid undercover parking is available at Fourways Mall, with access to the event via Level 8.
Tickets are available through Howler, with further event details and programme updates on the rAge Nation website.