At Gamer’s Universe, every kid can find a place to play — whether they’re into Mario Kart, tabletop quests or dressing up as their favorite character.
Now in its fourth year, this Chicago Public Library event returns to Harold Washington Library Center in the South Loop on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“This is one of the few entirely free conventions and gaming events in Chicago,” says Taylor Bayless, Special Projects Librarian at CPL and co-leader of the event.
“We really try to program for every age group and gaming interest,” she says. “We are also family-friendly and intergenerational — so it’s a great event to bring the entire family.”
What makes this event special?
“I personally love that it focuses on gaming as a community,” Bayless says. “We focus on inclusive, judgment-free experiences.”
And there are dozens of activities and attractions for different tastes.
“All kids who love games will love Gamer’s Universe,” says Bayless. “We have board games, card games, competitive games, scavenger hunts, tournaments, escape rooms and more.” Younger kids can enjoy storytime, crafts and a scavenger hunt
Kid considering a future career in gaming? They’ll also get a chance to connect with:
- Local designers and developers
- Artists and authors
- Event planners, organizers and creatives
“It’s OK for kids to come solo,” Bayless adds, “but we think it’s a great day for caregivers and kids to enjoy games together.”
Timing and planning out your day
Families should arrive by 10:30 a.m. for check-in, where they’ll receive:
- A swag bag with a lanyard badge (featuring original art)
- A Gamer’s Universe zine, sticker sheet and raffle card
“Pre-registration on our website is recommended,” says Bayless. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and families are encouraged to stay the full day.
As for food, bring water and snacks, as there are no on-site vendors. There are spots to eat, though — or step out, visit a nearby restaurant and return.
What to expect at Gamer’s Universe
From original board games to stage-worthy cosplay and tournaments with plushie prizes, Gamer’s Universe is packed with ways to play.
🎲 Original games by Chicago teens
Check out six games created by the Chicago Teen Gamer’s Guild interns throughout the day:
- Angelica’s Relic: Tactical fantasy battles for a powerful artifact
- Hostage Rescue Squad: Co-op card game to save the day
- The Zarnax Escape: Sci-fi escape from an alien stronghold
- The Haunting of Maywood High: Seance-themed challenges and ghostly fun
- Wanted* — Old West deduction game with costumes encouraged
- The Last Escape* — Solve puzzles in a timed prison break
*Wanted and The Last Escape require free tickets, available first come, first served in the Grand Lobby.
🎭 Cosplay contest
Get creative, dress up and earn your chance at prizes.
- Sign up 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; show at 3 p.m.
- Costumes must be at least 50% handmade to enter
- Walk across the auditorium stage and show off your look
- Win a sewing machine, airbrush kit and photography lighting set
🏎️ Tournaments
Gamers of all ages can test their skills and win cool prizes. Sign up on site at 11 a.m.; games start at noon.
- Mario Kart 8: Two brackets — 9 and under and 10+
- Tekken 8: Double elimination for ages 13+
- Uno: Two rounds, no elimination — everyone plays
Win trophies, plushies, themed prizes and more.
🎨 Artist Alley
Meet 30+ local artists and explore a market full of gaming-inspired goods.
- Shop comics, prints, jewelry, cosplay accessories, mugs, charms and more
- All purchases are cashless (Venmo, PayPal, Square)
- Includes fundraising by Extra Life Chicago for Lurie Children’s Hospital
🎁 Raffle scavenger hunt
Play your way through the day and earn entries for the end-of-day raffle.
- Complete activities around the event to collect stamps
- Submit your raffle card by 3:15 p.m. to be eligible
- Prizes announced on the main stage at 3:30 p.m.
- The more you do, the better your chances to win!
Powered by teens — and growing every year
Now in its fourth year, Gamer’s Universe was built from the ground up by local teens through CPL’s Chicago Teen Gamer’s Guild.
“Their creativity is surprising and inspiring,” says Bayless. “They’ve also led the way in ensuring that our convention is for all ages and is welcoming to all of our players.”
This content is sponsored by Chicago Public Library. Learn more about the Gamer’s Universe event at chipublib.org.
