GDC Festival of Gaming
March 9-13, 2026
Moscone CenterSan Francisco, CA

Welcome to Opening Night @ the Ballpark

The Official First Night of GDC

Monday, March 9 | 6:00 – 10:00pm

Opening Night at the Ballpark is your all-in kickoff. This is the moment for the B2B games community to come together for tabletop battles, surprise activations, classic ballpark bites, and when the sunsets, trailers and your fan-voted movie will light up the big screen.

How the Night Plays Out:

Arrive + Rally

Meet your fellow peers, get oriented, & settle into the stadium vibe.

Explore the Ballpark

Wander through the community activations, play tabletop games, and head to the concession stands.

Trailers & Feature Film

A curated run of game trailers lead into the fan-voted movie, brought to life with the dynamic lighting effects.

Wrap Up

Leave with fresh connections and a proper kick-off to your GDC Week.

You Voted...

The Opening Night movie is Scott Pilgrim v. the World!

Scott Pilgrim v. the World

Opening Night Activations:

Killer Queen by Bumblebear

Killer Queen by Bumblebear

Killer Queen is more than just an arcade game, it's also location-based entertainment that brings in new players and keeps them coming back, leading to unparalleled food and beverage earnings.

Photobooth by Aw Snap! Events

Photobooth by Aw Snap! Events

Aw Snap! delivers an unforgettable experience for guests at any event. With their sleek open-air photo booths and one-of-a-kind props, they create memories that last long after the party ends.

Museum of Art & Digital Entertainment

HALO LAN by the MADE (Museum of Art & Digital Entertainment)

Just in time for HALO’s twenty fifth anniversary, The MADE is hosting a HALO LAN. More than just gaming, this 16-player-activation is a celebration of Halo’s legacy and the joy of playing with friends in the same room.

Arrive with Ease

You can head to Oracle Park with confidence as there are plenty of convenient routes to get you there easily, whether you’re coming from Moscone Center, nearby downtown hotels, or anywhere else in the city.

  • Walking – Coming from Moscone Center? Our map (above) shows the most direct route – straight down 3rd street.
  • Public Transit – Our top recommendation is MUNI. Fast, reliable, and convenient, it’s an easy way to reach Oracle Park. Catch the 45, 15, or 30 bus from Market & 4th or 4th & Folsom for direct ride to the ballpark. Tap to pay info here.
  • Pedicabs – Operating Monday from 5:30-11:00pm (hours subject to change), with departures from Moscone South Hall.

FAQ