{"id":35079,"date":"2026-03-19T10:08:37","date_gmt":"2026-03-19T08:08:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=35079"},"modified":"2026-03-19T10:08:39","modified_gmt":"2026-03-19T08:08:39","slug":"rand-show-2026-launches-gaming-arena","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/rand-show-2026-launches-gaming-arena\/","title":{"rendered":"Rand Show 2026 Launches New Tech and Gaming Arena at Nasrec"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>The Rand Show has announced a major new attraction for 2026: a dedicated Tech and Gaming Arena, set to run from 2 to 6 April at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec. The new zone is expected to draw families, gamers, students and tech enthusiasts, adding a strong digital and innovation focus to one of Gauteng\u2019s longest-running public events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Organisers say the arena will shift the experience from passive viewing to interactive participation, allowing visitors to engage directly with gaming, robotics, esports and emerging technologies. The addition comes as demand for tech-driven entertainment and skills-based experiences continues to grow across the province.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>ALSO READ: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/sharpeville-hosts-three-day-human-rights-month\/\">Sharpeville Hosts Three-Day Human Rights Month Programme from 19\u201321 March 2026<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Major Shift In The Rand Show Experience<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Rand Show has historically focused on exhibitions, live entertainment and family activities. The introduction of the Tech and Gaming Arena signals a strategic shift towards future-focused content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to organisers, the new space is designed to bring together:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Gaming and esports experiences<br>\u2022 Hands-on technology demonstrations<br>\u2022 Educational STEM activities<br>\u2022 Pop culture and digital communities<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The arena will operate as a central attraction within the broader Rand Show programme, which runs over five days during the April school holiday period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1946702575\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Visitors Can Expect Inside the Tech and Gaming Arena<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Tech and Gaming Arena will include multiple interactive zones aimed at different age groups and interests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Key features include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 A LAN gaming arena with free play stations and competitions<br>\u2022 A PlayStation 5 football gaming experience<br>\u2022 Robotics demonstrations and hands-on control systems<br>\u2022 Virtual reality and augmented reality activations<br>\u2022 3D printing showcases demonstrating product development<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to event organisers, the focus is on participation, allowing visitors to test, build and explore technology in real time rather than simply observing displays.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">LEGO Experiences and Entry-level Coding Exposure<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A significant portion of the arena will focus on creative learning, particularly for younger visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The LEGO experience will include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 A large-scale interactive build zone<br>\u2022 A LEGO pit with millions of bricks<br>\u2022 A collaborative bridge-building installation<br>\u2022 Custom LEGO minifigure creation for attendees<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Visitors will also be introduced to basic coding concepts through unplugged activities using LEGO systems. Organisers say this approach allows children to understand programming logic without requiring screens or prior technical knowledge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-214258591\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Live Hackathons and Innovation Challenges<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The arena will also host a live hackathon environment where participants work in teams to solve problems within a limited time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to New Age Gaming Director Len Nery, the inclusion of hackathons and robotics aims to expose visitors to real-world applications of technology and innovation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These elements are designed to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Encourage problem-solving skills<br>\u2022 Promote teamwork and collaboration<br>\u2022 Introduce visitors to innovation-driven careers<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The hackathon format is increasingly used in education and industry to simulate real-world tech challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-45.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-35083\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-45.png 800w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-45-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-45-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-45-150x84.png 150w, https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-45-450x253.png 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Township Esports and Grassroots Gaming Development<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A key feature of the 2026 programme is the inclusion of Kasi Flare, a competitive gaming platform focused on township-based esports talent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The live tournament will showcase emerging players from township communities, providing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Competitive exposure for local gamers<br>\u2022 Access to structured esports environments<br>\u2022 Opportunities for networking and development<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to organisers, the initiative reflects broader efforts to make esports more inclusive and accessible across South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-803179698\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">School-based Esports and Digital Skills Development<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>RGB Gaming will host inter-school esports tournaments during the event, building on participation from more than 50 schools in previous editions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These tournaments are structured to emphasise:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Teamwork and communication<br>\u2022 Strategic thinking and decision making<br>\u2022 Discipline and sportsmanship<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The programme also highlights how gaming is increasingly being integrated into educational environments as part of digital literacy and STEM development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Visitors will be able to observe competitions and participate in public gaming sessions throughout the event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Anime and Pop Culture Integration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Tech and Gaming Arena will also include a dedicated anime and pop culture section, led by Anime After Hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This segment will feature:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Live cosplay and performance events<br>\u2022 J Pop and K Pop showcases<br>\u2022 Interactive audience games<br>\u2022 Panels on copyright and intellectual property<br>\u2022 Information on international study and career pathways<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A marketplace will also be set up, offering:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Collectables and figurines<br>\u2022 Manga, comics and trading cards<br>\u2022 Apparel and merchandise<br>\u2022 Independent artist products<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Organisers say this addition reflects the growing influence of global pop culture communities within South Africa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/image-46-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-35084\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1689723620\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Economic and Tourism Impact for Gauteng<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/randshow.co.za\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The Rand Show<\/a> remains one of Gauteng\u2019s largest public events, attracting thousands of visitors annually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The introduction of the Tech and Gaming Arena is expected to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Increase foot traffic at the Johannesburg Expo Centre<br>\u2022 Attract younger audiences and families<br>\u2022 Support local vendors and small businesses<br>\u2022 Strengthen Gauteng\u2019s position as an events destination<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The event also aligns with broader efforts to promote innovation and digital skills within the province.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What This Means for Gauteng Residents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The addition of a Tech and Gaming Arena reflects a broader shift in how large-scale events in Gauteng are evolving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For residents, this means:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Greater access to interactive technology experiences<br>\u2022 Exposure to digital skills and emerging industries<br>\u2022 More family-friendly activities during school holidays<br>\u2022 Increased opportunities for young people to explore careers in tech and gaming<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The event also highlights how entertainment spaces are increasingly being used to introduce practical skills linked to the digital economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-1742038572\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ: Rand Show 2026 Tech and Gaming Arena<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When is the Rand Show 2026 taking place?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The event runs from 2 to 6 April 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where is the event being held?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>It will take place at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the Tech and Gaming Arena?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>It is a new interactive zone focused on gaming, robotics, esports, coding and digital experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Will there be activities for children?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. The arena includes LEGO zones, beginner coding activities and family-friendly gaming experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are there competitive events?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. The arena will host esports tournaments, including township-based competitions and inter-school events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Happens Next<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Organisers are expected to release additional details on ticketing, schedules and specific programming closer to the event dates. Preparations for the April showcase are currently underway as the Rand Show expands its offering to include more technology-driven experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The 2026 edition will test how successfully large-scale public events can integrate entertainment with education and digital skills development, particularly for younger audiences in Gauteng.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Rand Show has announced a major new attraction for 2026 with the introduction of a dedicated Tech and Gaming Arena, set to run from 2 to 6 April at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec. The new zone is expected to draw families, gamers, students and tech enthusiasts, adding a strong digital and innovation focus to one of Gauteng\u2019s longest-running public events.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":35089,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[54],"tags":[104,2173,11465],"class_list":{"0":"post-35079","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-events","8":"tag-events-in-gauteng","9":"tag-johanensburg","10":"tag-upcomimg-events-in-gauteng"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35079","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/23"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=35079"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35079\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":35086,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/35079\/revisions\/35086"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/35089"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=35079"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=35079"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=35079"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}