Retro Arcade Corner
Classic consoles and arcade cabinets set for free play throughout all hours of the festival.
Winter Gaming Festival 2026: a two-day video game festival by the Video Games Museum at the Heraklion Youth Center, with free admission.
- 2
Days
- Free
Admission
- High Score
Challenge
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WINTER GAMING FESTIVAL 2026
PLAYER 1 · SELECT STAGE
The Winter Gaming Festival 2026 is a two-day festival dedicated to video games, their history, and the joy of gaming. On December 19 and 20, 2026, the Youth Center transforms into a welcoming entertainment venue where visitors of all ages can experience classic arcade games, participate in high score challenges, and discover exhibits from the Video Games Museum.
Admission is free for everyone.
- ARCADE
- FAMILY
- PRIZES
Festival
Gaming, History and Winter
The Winter Gaming Festival 2026 was created with the goal of bringing video games out of their usual spaces and presenting them in a unique, festive atmosphere in the heart of the city.
For two days, visitors will be able to play beloved titles, discover rare artifacts from video game history, and enjoy interactive activities with a warm cup of cocoa in hand.
a project by Video Games Museum
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DATES19-20 December 2026
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LOCATIONHeraklion Youth Center
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ADMISSIONΔωρεάν
A PROJECT BY
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SCHEDULE
PROGRAM
Two days. Two distinct vibes. Every hour of the festival is fully scheduled.
SATURDAY Dec 19 2026
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10:00OPENINGFestival Opening
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10:00 - 10:30FREE PLAYFree Play
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10:30HIGH SCOREHigh Score Challenge Starts
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12:00 - 12:30MUSEUMVideo Games Museum Presentation
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12:30 - 20:00FREE PLAYFree Play
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20:00CLOSINGEnd of Day
SUNDAY Dec 20 2026
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10:00OPENINGDoors Open
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10:00 - 18:00FREE PLAYFree Play
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18:30HIGH SCOREHigh Score Challenge Continuation
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19:00TOURNAMENTTournament Finals
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19:30AWARDSAward Ceremony
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20:00CLOSINGFestival Closing
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CHASE THE ULTIMATE HIGH SCORE
ARCADE LEADERBOARD
Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in high score competitions on classic arcade games.
#PLAYERGAMESCORE
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01Blinkypacman28,900
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02Pinkypacman26,150
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03Inkypacman24,300
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04Tetrimino-Itetris22,780
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05Clydepacman20,400
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06Tetrimino-Ttetris17,870
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07Ms. Pac-Manpacman15,500
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08Funkypacman14,640
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09Spunkypacman13,400
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10Tetrimino-Ltetris12,600
▌ ENTER YOUR INITIALS_
POP-UP EXHIBITION
WINTER IN 8-BIT
Energy Bonus Round
Quick mini-games and challenges between tournaments, with small prizes for everyone.
Winter Cocoa Lounge
A relaxation spot featuring hot chocolate, coffee, and chiptune music.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much is the admission fee?
Admission is free.
Is pre-registration required?
No. Admission and participation in activities are open to all.
Can I participate in the competition?
Yes. The competition is open to all visitors.
Is there an age limit?
No. The festival is suitable for all ages.
Will there be prizes?
Yes. Top players will receive gifts and commemorative prizes.
Where is the festival taking place?
The festival takes place at the Heraklion Youth Center in the city center.
CONTACT US
Contact us for partnerships, press inquiries, group bookings, or any other questions you may have.