A Note From Stephenie Hawkins, Event Director at GDC Festival of Gaming

The GDC Festival of Gaming, scheduled for March 1–5, 2027, at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, marks the 40th edition of the industry-leading event. The festival aims to celebrate game development through an expanded program that includes specialized networking opportunities, executive-level sessions, and a robust nightly social lineup. This iteration of the event emphasizes a city-wide presence, extending beyond the convention center to include an opening event at Oracle Park.

A primary focus for the 2027 event is the safety and inclusivity of all attendees. Organizers have implemented a strict code of conduct, with clear protocols for reporting violations, including a 24/7 safety hotline and on-site security support. The event maintains a partnership with local entities, such as the San Francisco Travel and Union Square Alliance, to provide additional resources like walking escorts and visible welcome ambassadors to assist participants throughout the city.

The programming highlights include the return of the Developers Concert, the Independent Games Festival (IGF) awards, and the Game Developers Choice Awards (GDCA). These ceremonies serve to recognize excellence in independent and peer-voted game development, with specific categories honoring boundary-pushing creators and industry-defining projects. By fostering a collaborative environment, the festival continues its mission to connect the global gaming community and shape the future of the industry.