PAX East Signs on in Boston Through 2023

February 14, 2012

The popular video gaming convention PAX East has decided to make Boston its home for 10 more years, signing a deal with the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority to keep the show at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center through 2023.

 

PAX East, operated in partnership with PAX East and Reed Exhibitions, has attracted more than 70,000 attendees each year to Boston since the show launched in 2010 at the Hynes Convention Center. Last year, the show moved to the BCEC, where it will run again in April.

 

This year was the final one on PAX East’s contract at the BCEC, but now the show will be sticking around for the next decade.

 

”PAX East is pleased to be in Boston for the foreseeable future,” said Greg Topalian, senior vice president, Reed Exhibitions.

 

He added, “As the event continues to grow by serving throngs of passionate gaming fans, Boston has more than met the challenge with impeccable service and attention to detail. The partnership between the state of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Digital Games Institute only sweetens the pot for us.”

 

During the next 10 years, show organizers said they hope to grow attendance for the three-day event to 100,000, making it one of the largest video gaming events in the world.

 

“We’re thrilled to host PAX East for at least 10 more years,” said James E. Rooney, executive director of the MCCA.

 

He added, “Hosting an event for the next decade that draws gamers from around the globe to Boston is fantastic, but the international attention it brings to the incredible technological advancements coming out of the Commonwealth is a win‐win.”

 

As part of the agreement, PAX East will make a $25,000 annual contribution to the Massachusetts Digital Games Institute (MassDiGi), an effort announced last year by Lt. Gov. Timothy Murray to promote collaboration between academia and the gaming industry.

 

“Over the last year, MassDiGi has worked towards building a strong public-private partnership across industry, academia and government in support of the state’s digital games cluster,” Murray said.

 

He added, “Massachusetts is excited that PAX East shares that vision for the industry across the Commonwealth.”

 

In all, PAX East will contribute a total of $325,000 to MassDiGi during the 10 years the show is in Boston.

 

PAX East’s commitment to Boston is just the latest in a string of good news for the city, which recently announced it was in store for a booming conventions and meetings year, with $625 million in expected income and 601,000 hotel room nights.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.