PAX East 2027 is the East Coast's premier celebration of gaming and gaming culture, taking place April 22-25, 2027, at the Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center in Boston, MA
Dates
22–25 Apr 2027
City / country
Boston, United States
Venue
Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (Boston Convention & Exhibition Center)
Time
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Event overview
PAX East is a celebration of gaming and gaming culture featuring thought-provoking panels, a massive expo hall filled with the best publishers and studios, new game demos, musical performances, tournaments, and a community experience unlike any other.
No matter your preferred genre or platform, if you love games, welcome home.
Originally conceived by Penny Arcade in 2004 as a show exclusively for gaming and game culture, PAX has grown from a single event into a global series, partnering with Reed Exhibitions to bring the experience to Boston, San Antonio, Philadelphia, and Melbourne
TL;DR
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Location & Facilities
415 Summer St, 02210 Boston, USA
Entrances & gates
Main Entrance (North Lobby)
Badge pickup is located at the Main Entrance
On-site South Parking lot accessible from Summer St via East Side Drive. Self-park $25/day (oversized vehicles $50). Valet parking available-. Accessible parking spaces in South lot. Daily rates of $15–17 have also been reported
1,350 spaces · $25.00/day
BCEC is fully ADA compliant. All areas including restrooms and Food Court are accessible. Elevators on every level-. Wheelchairs available at first aid station at no charge. Accessible parking near main entrances-. Companion seating adjacent to wheelchair spaces-. Assistive listening devices available upon request
Coat check available on Level 1 in Room 154. Cost is $5 per item per day, accepting cash, credit card, Venmo, and Applepay (per PAX East FAQ)
High power outlets are available throughout the venue-. Wi-Fi is complimentary throughout the facility. Portable chargers are recommended as demand can be high during events
No dedicated venue-operated shuttle is advertised. However, the MBTA Silver Line (World Trade Center station) is steps from the venue-, and some hotels offer complimentary shuttles to BCEC during events
Food options
BCEC Food Court, Seaport District Restaurants
On-site diningParking: On-site self-parking is available in the BCEC South Lot (enter from Summer St onto East Side Dr). Valet parking is $40 during most events. PAX East partners with SpotHero for discounted advance parking reservations. Street parking is scarce during PAX weekend. Rates at nearby garages range from $15-$25 per day
Attend
Event days & opening times
4-Day Full Event Badge
Grants complete four-day access across all Expo Halls, tabletop zones, and Main Stage panels
Single-Day Badge (Thursday / Friday / Saturday / Sunday)
Single-day access for the designated day of purchase
Sunday Kids Badge (Ages 6-12)
Discounted badge for children aged 6-12 on Sunday only (must be accompanied by an adult)
Ticket info
Badge collection
Physical RFID-enabled badges are mailed in advance to domestic US addresses or collected at the BCEC Will Call registration desk in the North Lobby upon presenting photo ID and order confirmation
Ticket notes
PAX East is a massive four-day celebration of gaming culture and community, featuring major studio game reveals, indie developer showcases, esports tournaments, and tabletop gaming. Badges are sold on a per-day or 4-day pass basis
Who runs the show
What's on
PAX Curse Award
Award given to video games shown at the Penny Arcade Expo (PAX). Awards held for PAX East, West, South, Aus and Dev are consolidated into one list. Categories include 'Best Reveal of the Year' (added 2017)
How the last edition performed
Current edition
2027 · 55,697 visitors · 203 exhibitors
Official current-edition metrics not yet published as of search date
Visitors
100,000
Exhibitors
300
Growth over time
New this edition
Later Date for 2027 Edition
PAX East 2027 is scheduled for April 22-25, approximately four weeks later than its usual March slot. The reason for the shift has not been officially disclosed
SourceTestimonials
PAX East is always the Grand Opening for a year of shows, and we're taking that momentum with us. We're always thinking about the future
Next edition outlook
2027-04-22 – 2027-04-25PAX East 2027 returns to Boston from April 22-25, approximately four weeks later than its traditional March slot. This date shift decouples the event from C2E2, enabling fans and professionals to attend both shows. Organisers ReedPop and Penny Arcade aim to build on the success of the 2026 edition, which drew over 100,000 attendees and 300+ exhibitors. The show is expected to continue its core pillars: a massive expo hall, panels, tournaments, Freeplay, and the Omegathon, with a continued emphasis on indie developers and community engagement
Date shift to late April (April 22-25), decoupling from C2E2 and potentially allowing cross-attendance Possible expansion of indie showcase areas given the rising prominence of independent developers at PAX Continued adaptation to industry trends, including potential new formats or digital integration to complement the in-person experience
Impact
PAX East 2026 reinforced its position as the East Coast's premier consumer gaming event, drawing over 100,000 attendees and 300+ exhibitors to Boston. The show served as a powerful counterpoint to industry-wide layoffs and uncertainty, reminding the gaming community of the passion and creativity that drives the medium. Fan-focused programming, indie showcases, and major publisher presence underscored the enduring appeal of in-person gaming events
Audience quality
PAX East 2026 attracted a highly engaged, diverse audience of over 100,000 passionate gamers, developers, content creators, and families. The crowd was notably enthusiastic about hands-on demos, indie discoveries, and community events. Attendees ranged from long-time fans to newcomers, all united by a shared love of gaming. The show's inclusive atmosphere and vibrant cosplay culture further enhanced the community feel, making it a prime environment for networking and direct feedback between developers and players
Exhibitor outcomes
Exhibitors reported strong engagement and high-quality leads, with many booths drawing consistent crowds throughout the four-day event. The show's fan-focused nature provided direct access to a receptive and knowledgeable audience, ideal for game demos, merchandise sales, and brand building. While official ROI data is not published, the sustained exhibitor participation—including major publishers and a growing indie presence—indicates a positive return on investment. Organisers noted that PAX East serves as the 'Grand Opening' for the year's gaming events, setting momentum for subsequent shows
Intelligence
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Why it matters
PAX East is the largest and most influential consumer game show on the east coast of North America, attracting more than 100,000 players, developers, creators and industry professionals to Boston every year. With the global game market expected to reach US$213.9 billion in 2026, PAX East provides game companies with an excellent exposure platform directly to core players these players are not only consumers of games, but also opinion leaders and content disseminators in the community. For independent developers, PAX East’s “PAX Rising Showcase” has become a key springboard to stand out from the massive amount of works. For AAA publishers, PAX East provides the most cost-effective way to reach consumers after E3 is permanently cancelled. As the industry's focus shifts from "acquiring new players" to "retaining and monetizing existing audiences"-10, the community-driven experiential marketing represented by PAX East is becoming more important than ever. The exhibition is also a window for observing trends in the game industry from the rise of independent games, the revival of nostalgic content to hardware innovation, PAX East's exhibition areas and agenda often reflect industry trends in advance
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
The global gaming market continues to grow and is expected to reach US$213.9 billion in 2026
Newzoo predicts that the global game market will reach US$213.9 billion in 2026, a year-on-year growth of 6.1%, covering all platforms and major regions. Mobile is still the largest platform (US$121.1 billion, +6.8%), consoles are US$46.9 billion (+5.1%), and PCs are US$45.9 billion (+5.3%). The total number of global players is expected to reach 3.7 billion in 2026 and 3.83 billion in 2027
SourceConsole games reach peak growth driven by GTA VI
Rockstar's "Grand Theft Auto VI" will be released in November 2026 and is expected to drive a 17.5% increase in full-price game spending, becoming the strongest growing category among all business models. The console platform is expected to grow by 5.1% in 2026, mainly driven by multi-game subscriptions, rising game and service prices, and GTA VI
SourceIndependent developers become the core force of exhibitions such as PAX East
Among the more than 300 exhibitors at PAX East 2026, independent developers and small and medium-sized enterprises became the protagonists. The "PAX Rising Showcase" planned by the organizer was particularly highly praised by the audience. As major AAA companies reduce their exhibition budgets, independent games are ushering in a "reverse takeover" at B2C exhibitions
SourceE3 is permanently canceled, and exhibitions such as PAX and Gamescom rise in status
ESA officially announced that E3 will be permanently canceled in 2026 -. The withdrawal of E3 has not shrunk the game exhibition ecology, but has made gamescom, TGS, PAX and other exhibitions more important. As the largest consumer game show on the East Coast, PAX East focuses on community and player experience and continues to grow amid changes in the industry landscape
SourcePlayer growth slows down, and the industry’s focus shifts to the realization of inventory
Newzoo predicts player growth will slow from 4.4% year-over-year in 2026 to a 3.2% CAGR by 2029. Future market growth "will increasingly rely on retaining and monetizing existing audiences rather than adding new players." The global player penetration rate only increased slightly from 61.5% to 62.0%, and there is limited room for growth
SourceLatest updates from across the market.
PAX East 2027 Date Announced: April 22-25, 2027
ReadPAX East 2026 attracts more than 100,000 visitors and more than 300 exhibitors
ReadPAX East 2026: Nostalgic games and indie developers take center stage
ReadNewzoo: The global game market will reach US$213.9 billion in 2026, with GTA VI driving console growth
ReadPAX East 2027 will once again crowd Boston’s Seaport District
ReadPAX East is the annual first stop of the PAX series of exhibitions. It is positioned as the largest B2C game exhibition on the east coast of North America. It forms a complete PAX global exhibition matrix with PAX West (West Coast), PAX Unplugged (specialized in table games), and PAX Aus (Oceania). In the broader game exhibition ecology, PAX East forms a differentiated positioning with GDC (a professional developer exhibition), Gamescom (the world's largest game show), and Tokyo Game Show (Asia's largest game show) GDC focuses on B2B industry exchanges, Gamescom and TGS have both B2B and B2C, and the PAX series purely focuses on the player community and game cultural experience
GDC Festival of Gaming 2027
San Francisco, USA
Mainly B2B, complementary to PAX East’s B2C positioning
websitePAX East 2027
Boston, USA
The first stop of the PAX annual series, traditionally regarded as the "opening salute" of the year-round game show
websiteGamescom 2027
Cologne, Germany
Both B2B and B2C, the core exhibition of the European game industry
websitePAX West 2027
Seattle, USA
Estimated date (based on annual patterns), pending official confirmation
websiteTokyo Game Show 2027
Chiba, Japan
Estimated date (based on annual patterns), pending official confirmation
websiteSpring (Q1-Q2)
GDC (March) provides a B2B industry communication platform for developers; PAX East (April) follows closely, providing first-time exposure opportunities for games to players, forming a spring combination of "developer release → player experience"
Late summer to autumn (Q3)
August-September is the "super cycle" of global game exhibitions Gamescom (Europe), PAX West (West Coast of North America), and TGS (Asia) are held together, covering core markets in three continents
Winter (Q4)
December ended the year with PAX Unplugged, focusing on the board game and card game market segments
Exhibition dates are mainly derived from the official websites and official press releases of each exhibition. Some exhibition dates in 2027 are based on annual forecasts and marked with "estimated dates"; the actual dates are subject to the final official announcement
Plan your trip
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Boston Logan International Airport
Primary airport serving Boston. Closest major airport to BCEC, among the shortest airport-to-convention-center distances in the US-. Served by MBTA Silver Line (free from airport to Boston), taxis, ride-share, hotel shuttles, and Logan Express coaches
2.9 miles (3.4 miles / 3.1 miles / 3.3 miles by various sources)
to venue
8–20 minutes by car or taxi, 19 minutes by Silver Line SL3 bus
by car
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
USD 350–600 / night
Seaport Hotel Boston, The Westin Boston Seaport District, Renaissance Boston Seaport District, Battery Wharf Hotel
USD 200–350 / night
Moxy Boston Downtown, citizenM Boston Back Bay, citizenM Boston North Station, Courtyard by Marriott Boston Downtown
USD 120–200 / night
Envision Hotel Boston-Everett, Hyatt House Boston/Waltham, Sheraton Boston Needham Hotel, Ramada by Wyndham Boston
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
MBTA Silver Line (SL1)
SL1 is the most direct and cost-effective way to connect Logan Airport to BCEC -. Departure from the airport is free -. World Trade Center station is located directly opposite BCEC -. Operating hours are approximately 6:30 am to 1:00 am
MBTA Silver Line (SL2 or SL3)
Alternatives to BCEC from South Station. SL2 and SL3 also stop at World Trade Center station
MBTA #7 bus
Depart from South Station and go directly to BCEC main entrance
Taxi/Uber/Lyft
About 8-20 minutes drive. Cost depends on time, transportation and needs -. Airport surcharges and tunnel tolls may apply
Back Bay Logan Express Airport Shuttle
Convenient way to get to Back Bay area hotels from the airport. The drive takes about 20 minutes
water taxi/water bus
A fun and scenic alternative to getting from Logan Airport to near BCEC. The Massport Route 66 shuttle provides free transportation from the airport terminal to the Logan terminal
MBTA Subway (Red Line/Blue Line)
The Red Line leads to South Station, from where you can transfer to the Silver Line or the #7 bus to BCEC-. The Blue Line can reach the Airport Station, and you need to transfer to the Massport free shuttle bus to the terminal
Commuter Rail / Amtrak
South Station is Boston's main transportation hub, offering commuter rail and Amtrak service. BCEC is about a 15-minute walk from South Station
Hotel shuttle
PAX East official partner hotels offer free shuttle service to and from BCEC, such as the Park Plaza and Courtyard Downtown/Tremont routes
Self-drive (BCEC parking lot)
On-site parking is limited. It is recommended to reserve a parking space in advance through platforms such as SpotHero
Plan your trip
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
| Type | Who needs it | Fee | Processing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B-1 Business Visitor Visa | Citizens of non-Visa Waiver Program countries traveling to the United States for short-term business purposes (including participation in conferences and exhibitions such as PAX East). Employees of foreign exhibitors participating in trade shows can use B-1 visas to perform move-in, dismantling, and booth maintenance work | $185.00 | 7-10 working days after the interview; overall it is recommended to apply 3 to 6 months in advance | |
| B-1/B-2 Joint Visa | People who go to the United States for the dual purposes of business and tourism/visiting relatives -. Can cover participation in the PAX East exhibition and personal travel after the conference | $185.00 | 7-10 working days after interview; it is recommended to apply 3 to 6 months in advance |
Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries do not need a B-1/B-2 visa for stays under 90 days for business or tourism, but must obtain an approved ESTA prior to travel. VWP countries include the UK, EU member states, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and others. Canadian citizens are generally visa-exempt for business/tourism visits
The United States accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary duty-free importation of commercial samples, professional equipment, and certain advertising materials by nonresidents-. Goods intended to be consumed, given away, or sold at a trade show are NOT permitted under an ATA Carnet-. Carnets may be used for both shipped and hand-carried goods-. The U.S. recognizes both A.T.A. Carnets and TECRO/AIT Carnets-. Exhibitors should confirm specific requirements with CBP and their carnet issuing authority
Official visa pageWeather
Boston in late April (around PAX East 2027) typically sees mild spring weather. Daytime highs average 14–15°C (57–59°F), with overnight lows around 5–6°C (41–43°F)-. Rain is possible—April averages about 7 rainy days with roughly 141mm of precipitation-. Layered clothing, a light jacket or umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as convention halls can be cool and show-floor conditions vary
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is 2.9 miles from BCEC with 8–20 minute travel time-. Direct MBTA Silver Line (SL1/SL3) connects airport terminals to World Trade Center station, steps from BCEC. Silver Line is complimentary from Logan to Boston; return fare is ~$2.40-. Taxi/ride-share ~$20–40 one-way-. Logan Express coaches serve. Back Bay and suburbs. The Westin Boston Seaport is attached to BCEC. Multiple hotels and downtown districts are within walking distance or short transit ride
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Cosplay and Community
PAX East is renowned for its vibrant cosplay community. Attendees are encouraged to dress as their favourite characters, with weapons check and safety tagging available at Info Desks. The show's inclusive atmosphere welcomes gamers of all backgrounds, with dedicated spaces like the Diversity Lounge and PAX Together initiative fostering belonging
The Omegathon Tradition
The Omegathon is PAX's signature multi-round, multi-game tournament that spans the entire event, culminating in a final showdown on the main stage. It's a must-watch spectacle that embodies the spirit of friendly competition and community fun
Charity and Giving Back
PAX East supports Child's Play Charity, a game industry-founded organisation that provides toys and games to children's hospitals worldwide. Exhibitors and attendees can participate in charity auctions, raffles, and donation drives throughout the show
New England Hospitality
Bostonians are generally polite but direct. The city's Seaport District is modern and walkable, with a strong dining and nightlife scene. Tipping 15–20% at restaurants is customary
Practical guides
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Destination: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
Primary airport serving Boston. Closest major airport to BCEC, among the shortest airport-to-convention-center distances in the US-. Served by MBTA Silver Line (free from airport to Boston), taxis, ride-share, hotel shuttles, and Logan Express coaches
Most international visitors require either a B-1/B-2 visitor visa or an approved ESTA (for Visa Waiver Program countries) to enter the U.S. for business purposes such as attending PAX East. Canadian citizens are generally exempt. Visa processing times vary widely by country; applicants should apply well in advance of travel
Processing: B-1/B-2: several weeks to months; ESTA: up to 72 hours (usually minutes)
B-1/B-2 applicants should check with their local U.S. embassy or consulate for current appointment availability and fees. ESTA applications must be submitted via the official DHS website at
OfficialFind a stay near the venue with options for every budget.
Areas to stay
Seaport District (walking distance to the Convention Center) · Downtown / Back Bay (accessible by subway or hotel shuttle) · Near Logan Airport (near the airport, some hotels provide shuttles) · Airport Area (Logan)
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to Convention Center (BCEC): approximately 2.9 miles, 8-20 minutes drive. Optional transportation methods: MBTA Silver Line SL1/SL3 (free from the airport, get off at World Trade Center station, within walking distance), taxi/ride-hailing ($20-$40), hotel shuttle (depending on the hotel)
Hotel → venue: The Seaport District hotel is within walking distance of the Convention Center. For downtown/Back Bay hotels, you can take the MBTA subway (Red Line to South Station and transfer to Silver Line) or use the free shuttle service of PAX official partner hotels (such as Park Plaza and Courtyard Downtown/Tremont routes, one in the morning and one in the evening during the exhibition, every 25-30 minutes)
Ride-hail: Uber/Lyft works great in Boston. It costs about $20-$40 from the airport to the convention and exhibition center, and about $10-$20 from the city center to the convention and exhibition center. There may be a premium during the show
Public transit: The MBTA (Boston Metro) is the main public transportation. Silver Line (SL1/SL2) leads directly to World Trade Center Station, just steps away from the main entrance of the Convention and Exhibition Center -. The Red Line connects to South Station, and you can transfer to the free Silver Line shuttle to Seaport
Parking: The Convention and Exhibition Center has a South Parking Lot, which can accommodate about 1,350 vehicles and charges about $25/day. PAX officially cooperates with SpotHero to provide discounted parking reservation service. During the exhibition, parking spaces on the streets around Seaport District are tight, so it is recommended to reserve parking spaces in advance
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: April
Temperature: 40–56°F (4–13°C)
Seasonality: Average 11 days of precipitation; spring showers are common
Packing: Boston in late April (around PAX East 2027) typically sees mild spring weather. Daytime highs average 14–15°C (57–59°F), with overnight lows around 5–6°C (41–43°F)-. Rain is possible—April averages about 7 rainy days with roughly 141mm of precipitation-. Layered clothing, a light jacket or umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as convention halls can be cool and show-floor conditions vary
Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.
Add side trips
Default day plan
Plan your trip
Best day to visit: Thursday
Thursday is the first day of the show and typically has lighter crowds, allowing for shorter lines for popular demos and more time to explore the expo hall before the weekend rush
Confirm exhibition/visit goals and develop budget — Clarify the core goals of this participation (brand exposure, user feedback, business negotiations, etc.) and allocate budget accordingly
Book a booth (exhibitors) or buy tickets (visitors) — Booths and tickets usually go on sale months in advance, so book early to take advantage of early bird discounts
Book hotels and transportation — Seaport District hotel prices may increase by 78% during the exhibition. It is recommended to book as early as possible through the PAX official website cooperation channel
Plan exhibition schedule and mark must-see exhibitors/events — Use the PAX official app or official website schedule to plan your daily route in advance. Please reserve queuing time for popular demos and panels
Complete visa/ESTA application (if required) — It is recommended to apply for B-1/B-2 visa 3 to 6 months in advance; ESTA recommends applying at least 72 hours in advance
Confirm exhibit/material logistics arrangements (exhibitor) — Contact Freeman to confirm shipping deadlines, domestic shipping discount deadlines are approximately April 14th
Download the PAX official app and get familiar with the exhibition hall map — The App provides real-time schedules, exhibitor lists, maps and notifications and is a key tool for on-site navigation
Confirm travel documents, print confirmation letters (invitation letters, hotels, air tickets) — Make sure your passport is valid for more than 6 months beyond the expected period of stay
Arrive in Boston and collect the Badge (if available for early collection) — Badge collection is usually at the main entrance (North Lobby). It is recommended to avoid the Friday morning rush hour
Registration, badge collection, and morning welcome coffee at Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (Boston Convention & Exhibition Center)
Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (Boston Convention & Exhibition Center) Main Entrance ConcourseAttending Opening Plenary Keynote: Future Industry Innovations & Market Outlook at PAX East Expo Penny Arcade Expo East
Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (Boston Convention & Exhibition Center) Plenary AuditoriumExhibition floor exploration: live product demonstrations and technology showcases
Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (Boston Convention & Exhibition Center) Exhibition HallsNetworking luncheon and scheduled B2B supplier matchmaking meetings
Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (Boston Convention & Exhibition Center) Executive Networking LoungeSpecialized Technical Workshop: Advanced Methodologies, Automation & Best Practices
Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (Boston Convention & Exhibition Center) Conference Rooms Level 2Evening Industry Networking Reception and collaborative discussions
Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center (Boston Convention & Exhibition Center) Central Terrace & Hospitality LoungeReturn for evening events (concerts, Omegathon finals, etc.)
BCEC Main TheatreBoston Seaport District
Neighborhood
Immediate vicinity
Home to restaurants, bars, and scenic waterfront views. Great for post-show dinners and socializing
Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
Historic Site
0.5 miles (10 min walk)
Interactive museum commemorating the 1773 protest; a quintessential Boston experience
Freedom Trail
Historic Walking Trail
1.5 miles (30 min walk or T ride)
A 2.5-mile trail through 16 historic sites, including the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church
Institute of Contemporary Art
Museum
0.3 miles (5 min walk)
Contemporary art museum on the waterfront; a favorite among locals and families
Boston Children's Museum
Museum
0.4 miles (8 min walk)
Interactive museum for families; great for attendees with children
Fan Pier Park
Park
0.2 miles (4 min walk)
Beautiful park on the marina with grassy seating areas, benches, tables, and fire pits
Seaport District Bars & Restaurants
Social
After-show gatherings and community meetups often happen in the Seaport's many bars and restaurants
PAX Together Lounge
Community
A dedicated diversity lounge fostering inclusive connections
Tabletop Freeplay Area
Gaming
A great place to meet fellow gamers and join impromptu tabletop sessions
Cosplay Village
Community
A hub for cosplayers to gather, share tips, and network
Budget
Official exhibitor pricing for PAX East 2027 is not publicly available on the event website. For rates and booth packages, contact the sales team at paxsales@paxsite.com. The 2026 exhibitor manual does not list booth prices
sourceAdjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
Exhibition Tickets Day Pass
visitor · General
USD 547–663 / per person
Exhibition Tickets Single Day Tickets (Thursday/Friday/Saturday/Sunday)
visitor · General
USD 155–180 / per person
Hotel Budget
both · Budget
USD 120–200 / per night
Hotel Mid-Range
both · Mid-range
USD 200–350 / per night
Hotel Deluxe
both · Luxury
USD 350–600 / per night
Meals (daily)
both · General
USD 50–100 / per day
Local transportation (daily)
both · General
USD 10–40 / per day
Booth Standard Booth (estimate)
exhibitor · Standard
USD 3000–5000 / per booth
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exhibition Tickets Day Pass | visitor | General | USD 547–663 / per person | estimate | |
| Exhibition Tickets Single Day Tickets (Thursday/Friday/Saturday/Sunday) | visitor | General | USD 155–180 / per person | estimate | |
| Hotel Budget | both | Budget | USD 120–200 / per night | estimate | |
| Hotel Mid-Range | both | Mid-range | USD 200–350 / per night | estimate | |
| Hotel Deluxe | both | Luxury | USD 350–600 / per night | estimate | |
| Meals (daily) | both | General | USD 50–100 / per day | estimate | |
| Local transportation (daily) | both | General | USD 10–40 / per day | estimate | |
| Booth Standard Booth (estimate) | exhibitor | Standard | USD 3000–5000 / per booth | estimate |
Decision
Based on your answers, we analyze whether you would be better suited to visit, exhibit, or skip PAX East 2027. The following results are for your reference
QUESTION 1 OF 8
What is your main purpose for attending PAX East?
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
When you want to experience the latest games first-hand, meet with developers face-to-face, or look for publishing/partnership opportunities
Best for
Game enthusiasts, independent gamers, content creators, industry observers
Min. budget
$300.00
Timeline
Plan your itinerary 1-2 weeks in advance and pay attention to the official website for ticket purchase and schedule
Risks
Popular demos have long queue times
Some events require tickets or reservations
Accommodation is tight and prices rise during the exhibition
exhibit
When you have a playable demo, a physical product, or clear new content to release, and the target users are highly overlapped with the PAX attendees
Best for
Game developers (independent or small and medium-sized studios), hardware/peripheral manufacturers, publishers
Min. budget
$3,000.00
Timeline
Prepare 3 to 6 months in advance (booth application, construction, promotional materials, personnel training)
Risks
Booth fees and logistics costs are higher
On-site competition is fierce and differentiation is needed to attract
The effect of participating in an exhibition depends on pre-exhibition warm-up and on-site interaction
skip
If you are only negotiating for business, have no game content, or are under great financial and time pressure, you may consider participating online or attending a more professional B2B exhibition (such as GDC)
Best for
Users with limited budgets, no clear exhibition goals, or users whose target market does not match the PAX crowd
Timeline
No special preparation required
Risks
Missed opportunities to meet players face-to-face
Unable to obtain first-hand user feedback
Book with
SpotHero
Official parking partner offering convenient and affordable parking reservations near the venue
Mentioned on Hotels & Travel page as the 2026 parking partner; likely to continue for 2027
Meet Boston
Provides quick eats and slow eats guides, as well as local entertainment recommendations for attendees
Referenced on Hotels & Travel page as a resource for attendees
Family Gaming Database
Collaborates with PAX East to provide family-friendly gaming content, game lists, and a dedicated family gaming room
Explicitly named as a collaborator on the Family Gaming Zone page
Recommended providers
PAX East official hotel partner (discounts available when booking through the official website)
The PAX East official website provides official partner hotel booking channels, where you can enjoy discounted room rates. The hotel selection covers Seaport District, Downtown and around the airport. Some hotels provide free shuttle services to and from the exhibition center during the exhibition. It is strongly recommended to book early as hotel prices may increase by up to 78% during the exhibition
FAQs & glossary
Frequently asked
Glossary
Trust footer
52
References
32
Publishers
0
Date checked
Massachusetts Convention Center Authority
Meet Boston
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.
