The much-anticipated annual rAge Expo is bringing the gaming community together once again for the ultimate gathering running from 27 to 29 November 2026, this time in partnership with Mettlestate. If you love video games, technology and geek culture, this is the expo for you!
The two South African gaming heavyweights, rAge and Mettlestate, are set to transform the country’s most iconic gaming event into a fully immersive festival unlike anything experienced before, bringing a combination of gaming nostalgia and future-facing technology with a new retrofuturistic theme.
For the 2026 edition, you can look forward to a packed three days of esports tournaments, epic cosplay, hands-on game demos, exclusive merch, local gamers showcasing their latest games, and of course South Africa’s largest BYOC (Bring Your Own Computer/Console) LAN (Local Area Network).
What is rAge Expo all about?
rAge, an acronym for the really Awesome gaming expo, has been running for more than 20 years and remains the go-to festival in Johannesburg for video gaming, technology, esports, and digital entertainment.
rAge Expo is a vibrant and inclusive gathering that caters to a wide range of interests, from gaming enthusiasts, technophiles, and millennials to Gen-Z and fans of popular culture. This event is designed to bring people together and foster a sense of community, offering a variety of content and features that cater to diverse audiences.
Immerse yourself in a geek universe of digital lifestyle gear and merchandise, edutainment, innovative gadgets, creative arts, and smart home devices. Get ready to be swept up in the heart-pounding thrill of esports tournaments, where dreams are crushed, and champions are forged. Below are some of the highlights to look forward to.
What’s on at rAge Expo 2026?
A retrofuturist theme
As always, visitors can expect immersive attractions, live entertainment, creator-led content, interactive experiences, community spaces and competitions at rAge Expo. Hardcore players, casual gamers, families, anime and cosplay fans, creators, tech enthusiasts and curious first timers will each find their own route through the event.
This year’s event also introduces elements of retrofuturism, combining the nostalgia and visual language of gaming’s past with ideas, technology and experiences that look ahead to what the future of digital culture could become.
From classic influences reimagined through new technology to immersive environments that blur the lines between then, now and next, retrofuturism will give rAge 2026 a distinctive creative identity.
The latest gadgets and product launches
Explore the latest emerging technology from virtual reality to the latest in on-site 3D printing. There’s also a firm focus on old technology including retro video gaming to classic arcades. Plus, the expo is saving a few surprises you’ve never seen before.
Connect with South Africa’s gaming community through BYOC LAN sessions
Every year, attendees eagerly anticipate participating in the BYOC LAN event.
Gamers will spend 50+ hours playing games on the same network, competing against and playing cooperatively with each other, swapping stories while slaying dragons, and questing together. This is where long-time online friends finally meet in the flesh, and new friends are made over the weekend.
Whether you’re dropping with your squad in Apex Legends, raging at your teammates in Fortnite, or fragging your way to victory in a heated game of Helldivers 2, the BYOC LAN @ rAge is a special experience, one where the online world and the real world come together for an unforgettable weekend.
This year, the LAN also features Casual Cup tournaments all weekend long, even more prizes, dedicated shower facilities and full weekend-long access to the reimagined rAge festival experience.
Tickets for the LAN are sold separately and can be booked via Howler now.
BYOC LAN Ticket Prices: General Pass (3-day LAN ticket): R950 per person | Super Pass (4-day LAN ticket): R1250 per person
When: Thursday to Sunday, 26 to 29 November 2026. Doors Open on Thursday at 6pm for Super Pass holders | Doors Open on Friday at 7am for General Pass holders. Doors Close for everyone on Sunday at 3pm
Flex your creativity with an epic cosplay
Cosplayers joining the event can enter multiple competition categories including a simple, baseline contest where everyone is invited to dress up and strike a pose on stage.
The Craftsmanship Competition is where the true cosplayers get to flaunt their creativity and efforts. The Craftsmanship Competition has four main entry divisions:
- Needlework Cosplay: Costumes which are 70% sewn or cloth
- Armour Cosplay: Costumes which are 70% armour (such as board, foam, cardboard, plastics, etc.)
- Festive Cosplay: This is for costumes which are festive in design and include both armour and needlework
- Skit Division: This is a fantastic variation where solo or group cosplayers get to do a small skit or performance with their costumes.
All cosplaying is also divided between Masters (the best of the best), Intermediate, Novice, and Youth (under 16).
Go bold and embrace your inner geek in an inclusive space
Since its launch, rAge Expo has provided an inclusive space for geeks and gamers to connect and hang out with folks who share the same interests. The community-focused space is also a great excuse to tap into the pop culture lifestyle while exploring different fandom culture booths and displays where you can make new memories.
If you’re into something a bit more chilled, look out for your favourite streamer or content creator and find out from them how to begin your own journey.
Take advantage of special rates at the marketplace
This gaming event in Johannesburg runs just before the festive season, and some great deals and specials are in store for bargain hunters. Browse a massive collection of specials on games, tech and accessories, or some geeky gifts for your loved ones. Also keep an eye out for geeky art and other fandom products made by passionate creatives in the Artist Alley.
The chance to WIN big!
Just showing up over the weekend could see you winning exclusives and freebies from partners, sponsors, and exhibitors at rAge Expo. Up for something a bit more challenging and competitive? Test your skills and unleash your competitive spirit with one of the many exciting competitions and giveaways.
A variety of esports tournaments will be live streamed from the event and you can watch professional teams compete in person or join in for casual competitions.
How to book tickets to rAge Expo 2026?
Tickets for this three-day gaming festival in Johannesburg must be booked in advance via Howler. The event runs at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, and discounted rates apply to students, scholars and families while kids under 7 years enter FREE. Larger groups can enquire and email at [email protected]
Cost: TBC. Will be available via Howler
When: Running from 27 to 29 November 2026
Where: Fourways Mall – Rooftop (Level 8), 11 Ruby Cl, Witkoppen, Sandton
Website: rageexpo.co.za
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @rAgeExpo
Instagram: @rage_expo
