Gen Con 2025 is set to descend upon Indianapolis this weekend, and all signs point toward another record-breaking year for one of the world’s largest tabletop gaming conventions. With badge sales already sold out, local officials and organizers are bracing for a massive influx of attendees that could surpass last year’s 70,000+ unique visitors.

Held annually at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium, Gen Con has long been a cornerstone of Indianapolis’s summer calendar. This year’s event, running from August 1–4, comes with high expectations not only for attendance but also for the economic lift it will bring to the city. In 2024, Gen Con generated an estimated $77 million in economic activity, 2025’s figures are expected to meet or exceed that number, especially given the pace of hotel bookings and vendor interest.

Gen Con continues to be a hub for fans of board games, roleplaying games, card games, and other tabletop experiences. With over 20,000 events scheduled throughout the weekend, attendees will get hands-on with anticipated new releases, rare collectibles, playtesting opportunities, and fan-favorite panels. The exhibit hall, a major draw, is packed wall-to-wall with publishers, indie creators, and big industry players like Paizo, Wizards of the Coast, and Ravensburger.

One factor helping fuel that interest is the ongoing cultural momentum surrounding Dungeons & Dragons. Larian Studios’ Baldur’s Gate 3, which launched to critical acclaim and commercial success in 2023, has sparked new excitement around the D&D ruleset and roleplaying in general. That renewed attention is expected to translate into strong interest in related panels, game sessions, and vendor showcases during Gen Con, where D&D content has long been a staple.

Local businesses, restaurants, and hotels have already reported spikes in bookings and with Gen Con officially sold out for 2025, the city is preparing for packed streets, full venues, and a major boost in downtown foot traffic. As the convention floor readies to open and cosplayers, dice rollers, and GMs flood the city, Indianapolis once again proves that it’s the epicenter of tabletop gaming in North America.