BEMIDJI — The GigaZone Gaming Championship returns for the ninth year this Saturday, April 12, in Bemidji.
According to Paul Bunyan Communications, the free event has grown to one of the largest rural gaming events in the country and has received national recognition.
Tournaments in modern and retro games will take place throughout the day at the Sanford Center, as well as exhibitors, a free arcade and a cosplay contest.
“We invite everyone to experience this truly unique event developed by our exceptionally talented team," stated Paul Bunyan Communications CEO and General Manager Chad Bullock in a news release.
"In addition to all the gaming fun, the TechXpo showcases schools and businesses’ use of technology and potential career opportunities through some cool interactive exhibits."
Duncan Wardle of Disney studios fame is slated to be the event's featured speaker. Wardle is a multiple TEDx speaker and teaches master classes at Yale and Harvard universities.
All the tournaments are first-come, first-in until full. While free, a GigaZone Gaming profile is required to enter the tournaments. That can be created online. For those unable to attend, it will be livestreamed on Twitch.
Doors open at 10 a.m. Saturday with door prize drawings set for 6 p.m.
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And: A McGregor gas station was fined by the state Pollution Control Agency; the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission was given a transportation award; and Red Lake County will defend its baseball title Monday. -
Contributed/Alyssa Chen / Minnesota ReformerThe state abruptly paused payment to thousands of care providers in May in a rush to meet a federal deadline. -
Contributed/Lakers Girls Golf Instagram PageAlmost 90 Northland students competed at the state golf tournament June 9-10, 2026, around the Twin Cities. -
Contributed/Brian DowThe number of detainees has not been confirmed. Bemidji police and Beltrami sheriff's deputies did not take part, leaders say. Some community members gathered to protest.
