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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Plus: Attorney General Keith Ellison will make stops in Northern Minnesota, and Northland athletes will compete in the girls state swimming and diving competition. -
A veteran and historian share their experience with the program from the United Way of Northeastern Minnesota. Veterans from the Iron Range and Koochiching and Lake of the Woods counties can participate.
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Larissa Donovan/KAXEThe United Way of Northeastern Minnesota's Operation: Service Story collects oral histories for Iron Range and Koochiching and Lake of the Woods counties service members. -
Larissa Donovan/KAXEForums will be in Grand Rapids, Ely and Hibbing, with a special event focused on veterans issued scheduled for 4-5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025, in Grand Rapids.
