BY: LULU NKOSI
The countdown has begun, and this year the Rand Show is turning the volume all the way up. From 2-6 April 2026 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec, visitors can plug into the brand-new Tech and Gaming Arena, a high-energy space where you do not just watch the future, you step straight into it.
Designed for curious kids, competitive gamers, creative makers and tech-loving families, this electrifying arena is all about hands-on fun. Whether you want to build, battle, race or code, there is something exciting waiting around every corner.
Powered by NAG, the arena brings together innovation and imagination. Expect a live hackathon where teams race against the clock to solve real-world challenges, robotics demonstrations that put you in control, and interactive coding sessions that teach tech fundamentals, even without screens.
LEGO fans are in for a treat with a massive build experience, a collaborative education-inspired bridge project, custom LEGO Minifigures to take home, and a LEGO pit filled with millions of bricks ready to spark creativity.
Gamers can shift into high gear at the LAN arena with free-play stations, competitions and prizes. There is also a PlayStation 5 football experience where every match is a chance to show off your skills. Township esports talent takes centre stage through Kasi Flare powered by Mettlestate, delivering a live competitive tournament packed with passion and rising stars.
Tech goes fully immersive with virtual and augmented reality experiences, 3D-printing demonstrations, and a racing simulator that lets visitors feel the thrill of driving the iconic Kyalami racetrack.
Pop culture lovers can head to Anime After Hours, Africa’s leading anime hub, for cosplay, J-Pop and K-Pop performances, interactive games, expert panels, and a vibrant marketplace filled with collectibles and officially licensed merchandise.
Adding to the excitement, RGB Gaming returns with structured inter-school esports tournaments involving more than 50 schools, promoting teamwork, leadership and digital skills. Families can also join free-play sessions and discover how gaming supports learning and future-ready careers.
One zone. Endless reasons to stay longer.
The Tech and Gaming Arena is set to be one of the biggest highlights of the Rand Show 2026, keeping visitors playing, exploring and discovering all day long.
For tickets and more information, visit www.randshow.co.za.
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