Cannes, France, is gearing up to welcome game creators, publishers, and enthusiasts from around the globe for the 39th edition of the Festival International des Jeux Cannes. From February 27th to March 1st, 2026, the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès will transform into a vibrant hub for all things gaming, showcasing a diverse range of board games, role-playing games, wargames, and interactive entertainment. The festival promises a packed schedule of events and a spotlight on the latest innovations in the gaming world.
A central highlight of the festival will be the official selection for the prestigious As d’Or – Jeu de l’année (Game of the Year) awards. A panel of industry professionals will evaluate a dozen novel games, recognizing excellence and creativity in game design. This year’s nominees represent a broad spectrum of gaming experiences, catering to diverse tastes and skill levels.
Among the finalists vying for the top prize are several standout titles. Flip 7, a dynamic card game, challenges players to assess risk and reward in pursuit of points. Rebirth offers an immersive experience centered around building a new world, while La Valse des Fantômes (The Ghost Waltz) provides a thematic and family-friendly gaming option. Rounding out the nominees are Toy Battle and Archéo, both original creations poised to capture the attention of festival attendees. The selection process encompasses categories for all audiences – from casual players to seasoned experts – reflecting the vitality and diversity of contemporary game creation.
Festival Details and Accessibility
The 39th Festival International des Jeux Cannes will be held at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès on the Boulevard de la Croisette in Cannes (Alpes-Maritimes), France. The festival will be open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, February 27th through March 1st, 2026. Admission is €10 per day, with a reduced rate of €6 available after 2:00 PM. Admission is free for those under 16, but advance online reservation is required. Further information can be found at festivaldesjeux-cannes.com or by calling +33 4 92 98 62 77.
A Celebration of Gaming Culture
The Festival International des Jeux Cannes has a rich history, celebrating its 30th anniversary in recent years, as noted by YesICannes. The event has become a cornerstone of the gaming community, fostering connections between creators, publishers, and players. Beyond the game showcases and awards ceremonies, the festival offers a variety of animations and activities designed to engage attendees of all ages and interests. The event also coincides with other cultural happenings on the French Riviera, including amateur chess tournaments, as reported by Chess.com.
The festival’s growing prominence is also reflected in the nominations for the As d’Or awards, with multiple games from Asmodee among this year’s contenders, according to TradingView.
As the 39th Festival International des Jeux Cannes approaches, anticipation is building within the gaming community. The event promises a unique opportunity to discover new games, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and celebrate the creativity and innovation that drive the industry forward. The festival’s continued success underscores the enduring appeal of tabletop gaming and its growing influence on the broader entertainment landscape.
What new gaming trends will emerge at this year’s festival? Be sure to check back for further updates and coverage as the event unfolds. Share your thoughts and excitement in the comments below!
