How to Attend the Memphis Board Game Convention

The Memphis Board Game Convention (MBGC) is one of the most vibrant and community-driven tabletop gaming events in the southeastern United States. Held annually in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, this convention brings together hundreds of board game enthusiasts—from casual players and families to competitive gamers, designers, and industry professionals. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of gaming conventions or a first-time attendee, MBGC offers an immersive experience filled with live gameplay, exclusive releases, workshops, tournaments, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for strategy, storytelling, and social interaction through games.

Unlike large commercial expos that prioritize merchandise and celebrity appearances, MBGC is rooted in the authentic culture of tabletop gaming. It emphasizes participation over observation. Attendees don’t just watch—they play. They design. They teach. They compete. And they build lasting relationships within a welcoming, inclusive community. For many, attending MBGC isn’t just a weekend activity—it’s an annual tradition that renews their love for games and fosters creativity, critical thinking, and human connection in an increasingly digital world.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to ensure you get the most out of your experience at the Memphis Board Game Convention. From planning and registration to navigating the event floor and maximizing your social and gaming opportunities, every detail is covered. Whether your goal is to win a tournament, meet your favorite designer, discover new games before they hit shelves, or simply enjoy a weekend of laughter and strategy, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge and tools to attend MBGC with confidence and excitement.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research the Event Dates and Location

Before anything else, confirm the exact dates and venue for the upcoming Memphis Board Game Convention. MBGC typically takes place in late summer—often the third or fourth weekend of August—at the Memphis Cook Convention Center, located at 255 North Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103. The convention runs Friday through Sunday, with early access for certain ticket holders on Thursday evening.

Visit the official MBGC website (memphisboardgameconvention.com) to verify dates each year, as they may shift slightly. Bookmark the site and subscribe to their newsletter for updates on guest announcements, schedule releases, and ticket sales. Avoid third-party sites that may list outdated or incorrect information.

2. Choose Your Ticket Type

MBGC offers several ticket tiers to accommodate different levels of participation and budget:

• General Admission (GA): Covers entry for all three days (Friday–Sunday). Ideal for casual attendees who want to explore the exhibit hall, play games in the open gaming area, and attend public events.
• Early Access Pass: Grants entry on Thursday evening (usually 5–9 PM) for a quieter, less crowded experience. Perfect for those who want to test new games before the crowds arrive or attend exclusive preview sessions.
• Full Weekend Pass: Includes GA access plus priority seating for workshops and tournaments. Recommended for competitive players and those planning to participate in multiple scheduled events.
• Designer Pass: For game designers and publishers. Includes booth space (if applicable), access to the designers’ lounge, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.
• Child/Student Discount: Available for attendees under 18 or with valid student ID. Often includes reduced pricing and access to family-friendly zones.

Always purchase tickets directly through the official MBGC website. Avoid resellers or unofficial marketplaces, as tickets may be invalid or overpriced. Early bird pricing is typically available until May 31st, so register as soon as possible to lock in savings.

3. Plan Your Accommodations

Memphis is a popular destination during MBGC weekend, and hotels fill up quickly. Book your lodging at least 60–90 days in advance. The convention center is centrally located, but proximity matters for convenience and cost.

Recommended hotels include:

• Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown: 0.3 miles from the convention center, free breakfast, and shuttle service.
• Hyatt House Memphis Downtown: Modern rooms, kitchenettes, and on-site dining. Offers a group discount code for MBGC attendees.
• Hotel Indigo Memphis Downtown: Boutique-style lodging with local artwork and rooftop views.

If you’re traveling from out of town, consider renting a car for flexibility. Public transit options in Memphis are limited, and rideshare services can be slow during peak convention hours. Alternatively, coordinate with other attendees through the MBGC Discord server or Facebook group to share rides or split hotel rooms.

4. Review the Event Schedule

Three to four weeks before the event, the full schedule is published on the MBGC website. This includes:

• Tournament brackets (e.g., Catan, Wingspan, Terraforming Mars, Pandemic Legacy)
• Workshops (game design 101, rulebook writing, miniatures painting)
• Guest appearances (designers, artists, YouTubers)
• Themed game nights (e.g., “Horror Game Marathon,” “Cooperative Game Showdown”)
• Family zone hours and kid-friendly activities

Use the schedule to prioritize your must-play events. Some tournaments have limited seats (e.g., 48-player sessions for Azul: Stained Glass of Sintra), so sign up early once registration opens. Most events require pre-registration via the MBGC portal—don’t wait until the last minute.

5. Pack Strategically

What you bring can make or break your experience. Here’s a curated packing list:

• Games: Bring 2–3 of your favorite portable games (e.g., Love Letter, Splendor, 7 Wonders Duel) to play during downtime or with new friends. Avoid bulky games unless you’re planning to run a demo.
• Game storage: Use small, labeled ziplock bags or plastic containers to organize components. A small backpack or rolling tote is ideal for carrying games around the venue.
• Pen and notebook: Useful for jotting down game ideas, designer names, or rules you want to remember.
• Water bottle and snacks: The convention center allows sealed water bottles. Snacks help maintain energy during long play sessions.
• Portable charger: Your phone will be your map, schedule, and communication tool. A 10,000mAh power bank is recommended.
• Comfortable shoes: You’ll walk 8–12 miles over the weekend. Break them in before you go.
• Game mats or play surfaces: If you’re running a demo or teaching a game, bring a clean, non-slip mat.
• Business cards (optional): If you’re a designer or content creator, have a few printed with your name, social handles, and website.

Pro tip: Leave expensive or irreplaceable games at home. The convention floor is busy, and accidents happen. Use copies or print-and-play versions for teaching.

6. Download the Official MBGC App

MBGC releases a mobile app (available on iOS and Android) two weeks before the event. The app includes:

• Real-time schedule updates
• Interactive floor map with vendor locations
• Push notifications for schedule changes or surprise events
• Networking features to connect with other attendees
• Live voting for “Best New Game” and “Best Theme” awards

Enable notifications and sync your personal schedule. Many attendees miss out on pop-up events because they rely on printed schedules that aren’t updated in real time.

7. Arrive Early and Get Oriented

On your first day, arrive at least 30 minutes before the doors open. Lines form quickly, especially for early access holders. Once inside:

• Stop by the info desk to pick up a printed map and schedule (in case your phone dies).
• Locate the open gaming area, tournament registration desk, and food court.
• Find the designers’ showcase and indie game booth zone.
• Join the “First-Timer Meetup” (usually held at 11 AM Friday in the main hall)—a great way to meet others who are new to the convention.

Take a slow walk around the entire floor. Note where your favorite games or designers are located. This will save you time later when you’re rushing between events.

8. Play, Teach, and Engage

MBGC thrives on participation. Don’t just sit and watch. If you see a game being taught, ask to join. If you know a game well, offer to teach someone. Many attendees come alone and are looking for someone to play with.

Use the “Game Exchange” board near the open gaming zone. Post a game you’re willing to lend and request one you want to try. It’s a great way to discover hidden gems.

Attend at least one workshop—even if it’s outside your usual genre. Many attendees report that learning about game design or narrative structure completely changed how they approach their favorite titles.

9. Participate in Tournaments and Awards

MBGC hosts over 20 competitive tournaments across genres. Popular ones include:

• King of Tokyo Championship: Fast-paced, high-energy, and always packed.
• Codenames Masters: Team-based wordplay competition with regional qualifiers.
• Design Your Own Game: A 4-hour challenge where participants create a prototype and pitch it to judges.

Sign up early. Some tournaments fill within minutes. Even if you don’t win, the experience is invaluable. Judges often provide feedback that helps aspiring designers improve.

Don’t forget to vote in the “People’s Choice Awards.” Your vote helps determine which games get published or picked up by distributors. It’s your voice in shaping the future of tabletop gaming.

10. Network and Follow Up

MBGC is as much about people as it is about games. Talk to designers, publishers, artists, and fellow players. Ask questions like:

• “What inspired this mechanic?”
• “How did you get your game published?”
• “Do you have a newsletter or Patreon?”

Exchange social media handles. Many lasting friendships and collaborations begin at MBGC. After the event, send a quick message on Discord or Instagram: “Thanks for teaching me Terraforming Mars! Loved your tips on resource management.”

Consider joining the MBGC Alumni Group on Facebook. It’s active year-round and often hosts virtual game nights, design critiques, and local meetups.

Best Practices

Be Respectful of Space and Time

Tables in the open gaming area are shared. If you’re playing a 90-minute game, don’t claim two adjacent tables. If someone is waiting to play, offer to let them join your game or clear the table promptly. Many attendees have tight schedules and rely on timely turnarounds.

Respect “Quiet Zones” designated for solo play or rulebook reading. Avoid loud conversations or phone calls in these areas.

Know When to Step Back

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and play nonstop. But pacing yourself is key. Take breaks. Hydrate. Eat. Step outside for fresh air. Overstimulation can lead to burnout, especially if you’re attending with children or have sensory sensitivities.

MBGC offers a quiet room with dim lighting, weighted blankets, and calming music for attendees who need a sensory reset. Don’t hesitate to use it.

Teach, Don’t Just Play

One of the most rewarding aspects of MBGC is teaching others. If you know a game well, volunteer to be a “Game Ambassador.” These volunteers help newcomers learn rules and ensure everyone has a positive experience. Many designers specifically look for ambassadors to help demo their new titles.

Use the “Teach in 5 Minutes” method: explain the goal, the turn structure, and one key mechanic. Let them play. Answer questions as they arise. Avoid over-explaining.

Support Indie Creators

Over 60% of the vendors at MBGC are independent designers or small presses. They often sell games at cost or offer exclusive convention-only prints. Buying directly from them supports innovation in the hobby.

Look for booths labeled “Micro-Publisher” or “First-Time Designer.” Many of these games are not available in stores. You might walk away with a limited-run print that becomes a collector’s item.

Document Your Experience

Take photos (with permission), write short reviews, or record voice notes about games you played. These become valuable references later. Many attendees use their MBGC notes to build personal game libraries or start YouTube channels.

Post on social media using

MBGC2024 (or the current year). The convention’s official team often reshare attendee content, and you might be featured on their Instagram or newsletter.

Practice Inclusivity

MBGC is committed to being a safe, welcoming space for all genders, ethnicities, abilities, and skill levels. If you see someone being excluded or overwhelmed, offer help. Say “Hi, want to join our game?” or “I saw you looking at that one—want me to explain it?”

Use gender-neutral language. Avoid assumptions about experience levels. Not everyone who looks young is a beginner, and not everyone who looks older is an expert.

Leave No Trace

After you finish a game, return all components to the box. Don’t leave rulebooks scattered or dice on the floor. If you borrowed a game, clean the table and return it to the correct bin.

Recycle packaging and avoid single-use plastics. MBGC has recycling stations throughout the venue. Help keep the event sustainable.

Tools and Resources

Official Resources

• Memphis Board Game Convention Website: memphisboardgameconvention.com – The only source for accurate schedules, tickets, and updates.
• MBGC Mobile App: Available on iOS and Android. Syncs with your personal schedule and provides live updates.
• MBGC Discord Server: Join before the event to connect with attendees, form playgroups, and ask questions. Search “MBGC 2024” on Discord.
• MBGC Facebook Group: “Memphis Board Game Convention Attendees” – Over 8,000 members. Used for ride-sharing, lost-and-found, and last-minute game swaps.

Third-Party Tools

• BGG (BoardGameGeek) App: Use the BGG database to look up rules, ratings, and player counts for games you haven’t played before. Many attendees use it on their phones to decide what to try next.
• Tabletop Simulator (Steam): If you’re planning to design a game, test mechanics in this digital sandbox before bringing a prototype to the convention.
• Google Sheets: Create a shared spreadsheet with friends to track which games you want to play, who’s teaching, and when. Color-code by priority.
• Notion: Build a personal MBGC tracker with sections for games played, designers met, notes on rules, and follow-up tasks.
• SoundCloud or Spotify Playlists: Create a “MBGC Vibes” playlist with upbeat, instrumental tracks to listen to while walking between booths or waiting in line.

Game-Specific Resources

For tournament preparation:

• Catan Strategy Guide (BGG Forums): Detailed analysis of resource distribution and trading tactics.
• Wingspan: Official App: Practice solo play and learn bird abilities before competing.
• Pandemic Legacy: Playthrough Videos (YouTube): Watch experienced players to understand campaign progression.

For game designers:

• Game Design Workshop by Elizabeth Hargrave: A free PDF guide on prototyping and playtesting.
• Tabletop Simulator (TTS) Templates: Download pre-made templates for card games, board layouts, and player mats.
• Print and Play Archive (itch.io): Browse hundreds of free, crowd-tested prototypes to study mechanics.

Accessibility Resources

MBGC provides:

• Wheelchair-accessible pathways and restrooms throughout the venue.
• Large-print schedules and tactile game components upon request.
• ASL interpreters for keynote speeches (request in advance via the website).
• Sensory-friendly hours on Saturday afternoon (lower lighting, reduced audio).

For neurodivergent attendees, consider bringing noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, or a visual schedule. The staff is trained to accommodate diverse needs—just ask.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah, First-Time Attendee

Sarah, a 28-year-old teacher from Nashville, had never been to a board game convention. She bought a General Admission ticket on a whim after seeing a friend’s Instagram post. On Friday morning, she joined the First-Timer Meetup and was paired with two other newcomers. They played a round of Codenames together, then discovered a booth selling a new cooperative game called “The Lost Library.” Sarah bought a copy, learned the rules from the designer, and played it again that evening with a group of strangers who became her friends for the weekend.

By Sunday, she had entered the “Design Your Own Game” contest with a simple card game about librarians restoring forgotten books. She didn’t win—but the feedback she received led her to start a YouTube channel reviewing indie games. She returned the next year as a volunteer.

Example 2: Marcus, Game Designer

Marcus, a 34-year-old software engineer from Atlanta, spent two years designing “Chrono Coven,” a time-traveling deck-builder. He registered for a Designer Pass and set up a small booth. He spent two days teaching the game to over 150 players. One attendee—a publisher from a mid-sized indie house—was so impressed they offered him a contract on the spot.

He also attended the “Pitch to Publishers” workshop, where he learned how to condense his game’s pitch into a 60-second elevator speech. That skill helped him secure a second publishing deal for his next project.

Example 3: The Johnson Family

The Johnsons—parents Lisa and Tom, and their two kids (ages 9 and 12)—attended MBGC as a family outing. They used the Family Zone, which offered age-appropriate games like “Hoot Owl Hoot!” and “Dinosaur Escape.” The kids participated in a scavenger hunt to collect stickers from different booths, earning a free mini-game at the end.

On Saturday night, they joined a “Family Game Night” where parents and kids played “Sushi Go!” and “Ticket to Ride: First Journey” together. Lisa said, “We hadn’t played a board game as a family in over a year. This weekend reminded us why we love games.”

Example 4: Jamal, Competitive Player

Jamal, a 22-year-old college student, had competed in regional tournaments for years. He came to MBGC to qualify for the National Board Game Championship. He entered the Azul tournament and placed third. More importantly, he met the game’s designer, who invited him to test an upcoming expansion.

Jamal now runs a weekly game night at his university and uses MBGC as his annual benchmark for skill growth. He keeps a journal of every game he plays at the convention, noting strategies, mistakes, and new ideas.

FAQs

Do I need to be an experienced gamer to attend MBGC?

No. MBGC welcomes all skill levels. There are beginner-friendly zones, staffed tutorials, and games designed for families and newcomers. Many attendees are there to learn.

Can I bring my own games to play or sell?

You can bring games to play in the open gaming area. Selling games requires a vendor booth, which must be applied for in advance. Personal sales (e.g., trading or giving away copies) are allowed, but commercial reselling without a permit is prohibited.

Are children allowed?

Yes. MBGC is family-friendly. Children under 12 can attend for free with a paying adult. There are dedicated play areas, kid-friendly games, and supervised activities.

What if I don’t know how to play a game?

Every game in the open area has a “Teach Me” sign. Volunteers and experienced players are happy to walk you through rules. You can also ask at the info desk for a “Game Buddy” to help you.

Is there food available?

Yes. The convention center has multiple food vendors offering pizza, tacos, sandwiches, vegan options, and desserts. You can also bring your own snacks and water.

Can I bring my pet?

Only service animals are permitted. Emotional support animals are not allowed due to space and safety regulations.

What happens if I lose something?

Lost items are taken to the info desk. Label your belongings with your name and phone number. The MBGC app also has a “Lost & Found” feature where you can report missing items.

Is there Wi-Fi?

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the convention center. However, due to high usage, speeds may vary. Download any needed resources beforehand.

Can I record or livestream at the event?

You may record for personal use. Livestreaming or commercial recording requires prior written permission from MBGC management. Always ask before recording other attendees or game sessions.

Will there be new game releases?

Yes. MBGC is known for exclusive convention-only releases, including limited-run prints, signed editions, and early access to upcoming titles. Many games debut here before hitting Kickstarter or retail shelves.

Conclusion

The Memphis Board Game Convention is more than an event—it’s a celebration of creativity, connection, and community. Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of competition, the joy of discovery, or the simple pleasure of sharing a game with someone new, MBGC offers an experience unlike any other in the tabletop world.

By following this guide—from early planning to thoughtful engagement—you position yourself not just as an attendee, but as an active participant in the culture of board gaming. You’ll leave with more than just new games and souvenirs. You’ll leave with stories, friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the art of play.

Remember: the best part of MBGC isn’t the games on the table—it’s the people around it. Be present. Be kind. Be curious. And most of all, play.

See you on the convention floor.