The Games Industry Ultimate Holiday Party Palooza 2020: Season Finale Edition Starts This Friday

Virtual networking community the Games Industry Gathering (GIG) will host the biggest and most inclusive end of year party for the games industry, with all funds raised going to support the IGDA Foundation and its quest to advance the careers of underrepresented developers around the world.


The ridiculously named event will be a 24-hour digital party, allowing folks from all regions of the world to take part in periodically randomized breakout rooms to virtually replicate the experience of connecting with industry friends and strangers like we would at in-person social gatherings, while in a much safer and inclusive environment.

“I am so over video calls this year, but for some reason the format of the GIG networking events are genuinely fun and engaging, plus I’ve met and connected with more industry folks through it than I would have at physical events,” says Guy ‘Yug’ Blomberg, organizer of the GIG and somebody who used to be important at PAX. “This party is a chance for us to share the experience with the rest of the industry, for one huge end of year 24-hour blow out.”

With tickets already sold, donations from GIG members, and the support of sponsors Amazon, Wizards of the Coast, Concept Arthouse, Iron Galaxy, and Xsolla, the event has already raised more than US$25,000 in support of The IGDA Foundation’s underrepresented developers programs.

“The funds raised will support aspiring global game developers facing an uncertain future and unstable job market. In 2021, we will focus on career pipelines and retention of underrepresented professionals seeking mentorship, resume reviews, entrepreneurship, expanding soft skills, and networking access. Applications to these opportunities will open early next year,” says Nika Nour, executive director for the IGDA Foundation and former contestant on Bravo series “Spy Games.”

The Games Industry Ultimate Holiday Party Palooza 2020: Season Finale Edition will start at 2:00 a.m. EST on Friday the 18th of December and run for 24 hours.


Tickets are available to purchase here for a minimum of US$10, with further donations for the IGDA Foundation being taken here. Members of the Games Industry Gathering can attend for free.