Live music performances, classic Las Vegas destinations and even noteworthy sporting events headline what should be an action-packed week at the 2026 Global Gaming Expo (G2E), taking place once again from the Venetian Resort Las Vegas. Whether it’s a trip to the Sphere, Fremont Street or Allegiant Stadium, each event is worthy of a look as attendees plan their G2E trip for this year.  

Music & entertainment  

New Kids on the Block – October 2 (From $42) 

On October 2, New Kids on the Block continue their “The Right Stuff” Las Vegas residency at the Dolby Live theatre within Park MGM, building on the pop band’s legacy which originated in the late 1980s and early 1990s. One of the band’s members – Donnie Wahlberg – has also become a Las Vegas staple in recent years, opening many different businesses alongside his brother Mark. Offering a smoother, although still iconic, alternative to Metallica’s Sphere show, New Kids on the Block reignite the nostalgia felt by many of G2E’s most common attendees, making for an exciting show on the Las Vegas Strip.  

The Wizard of Oz at Sphere – Daily (From $119) 

For fans of the timeless classic, The Wizard of Oz at Sphere event will continue its run throughout all four days of G2E, offering the chance to experience the film in a never-before-seen-type format. Multi-sensory 4D elements combine and leverage for maximum impact to make audiences feel as if they are in the experience alongside the characters, such as high-velocity wind arrays, atmospheric fog, towering fire bursts and infrasound haptic seats. There are at least two shows scheduled for each of the four days G2E takes place in Las Vegas, as well as eight total performances playing the weekend leading up to the Expo – offering plenty of opportunity even during one of the busiest weeks in all of gaming. 

Metallica – October 1 & 3 (From $953) 

For those looking to rock the night away, Metallica makes its Sphere debut on October 1 – the final day of G2E – and has a second show scheduled for the following weekend on October 3. Representing one of the most iconic bands in music history, it wouldn’t be a stretch to describe the upcoming performances as the headline act taking place in Las Vegas throughout the week-long stretch. The highly‑anticipated eight show run will also continue the band's “No Repeat Weekend” tradition, with no songs repeated on each Thursday and Saturday throughout the course of their run. While tickets are certainly high in price, getting to attend Metallica’s debut Sphere concert would certainly make any G2E visitor the rockstar of the gaming tradeshow. 

Sports 

California vs UNLV – October 3 (from $52) 

For football fans, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Rebels will play its second home game of the 2026-2027 season against the University of California, Berkeley on October 3 from Allegiant Stadium. UNLV challenged for the Mountain West conference championship last season and has high hopes to do so once again this year, while Allegiant Stadium offers one of the most spectacular sporting venues across the US. For those staying through the weekend following G2E, the California-UNLV game offers a fun atmosphere and a look into one of Las Vegas’ most storied collegiate programs. Especially in the event one finds themselves priced out of the Raiders game, the UNLV football team should offer a high-scoring affair with numerous playmakers on offense this season.  

Vegas Golden Knights season openers – September 29 (from $169) & October 2 (from $128) 

The Vegas Golden Knights NHL franchise will make its season debut on September 29 against the Chicago Blackhawks, coming off a third run to the Stanley Cup Finals in less than 10 years of existence. While Vegas was unable to capture Lord Stanley’s Cup from the Carolina Hurricanes, a roster filled with stars such as Jack Eichel, Mitch Marner, Shea Theodore and Mark Stone has the city plenty excited for the 2026-2027 regular season. For those unable to step away from G2E responsibilities (or afterparties) on September 29, the Golden Knights will also be taking on the Anaheim Ducks just three days later, representing a rematch of the franchises’ Playoff series last spring. From T-Mobile Arena, there are few events in Las Vegas which can replicate the intensity and energy of a Golden Knights home game. 

Kansas City Chiefs vs Las Vegas Raiders – October 4 (from $224) 

While it’s still to be determined whether first overall pick Fernando Mendoza will be starting for the Raiders on October 4, players such as Brock Bowers and Maxx Crosby should still be plenty enticing for NFL fans coming out to G2E this year. Coming off a rather disappointing season in 2025-2026, Raiders faithful have new hope in the form of Mendoza, who is coming off a National Championship victory with the Indiana Hoosiers in his final collegiate season. The Kansas City Chiefs may represent Las Vegas’ most notable rival, having won three Super Bowls over the past eight years. Led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, those attending the Chiefs-Raiders game could be in for a “passing of the torch-esque” moment if Mendoza is able to outduel the former Most Valuable Player at Allegiant Stadium.  

Local Las Vegas attractions (All free to attend/daily, but could spend money on F&B, etc.) 

Bellagio Conservatory 

The Bellagio Conservatory marks one of the most beautiful attractions in all of Las Vegas, and will have just recently transformed into its “Harvest” themed season during the lead-up to G2E. Each seasonal transition unveils a new design which includes repurposed living plant materials, part of a commitment to sustainability from MGM Resorts International. Completely free to experience and a close walk from the Venetian Las Vegas, the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens are a must-see for any G2E visitor this year. Not only that, but a quick stroll outside would also bring visitors to the well-known Bellagio Fountains which offer multiple performances throughout the day.  

Container Park 

Those visiting Las Vegas for the 2026 Global Gaming Expo would be remiss to not head toward the Downtown area during their stay, which includes interactive and multi-purpose attractions such as the Container Park. Offering an open-air mall with boutique shops, restaurants and live shows, the Downtown Container Park makes for a festive night out in Las Vegas for those looking to cut loose without breaking their wallet at the same time. Look out for the venue’s incredible 40-foot-tall praying mantis structure, which can shoot fire up to six stories high as part of daily performances.  

Fremont Street 

The Fremont Street experience in Downtown Las Vegas is one every visitor has to make during their trip, offering hundreds of different restaurants, stores, live entertainment acts and LED music shows. Fremont Street guests can also take a visit to some of the most well-known casino properties in Las Vegas, such as The Plaza, Circa Resort & Casino, Golden Nugget, the D Las Vegas and Golden Gate. While price may be dependent on food & beverage and certain entertainment selections (such as the 77-foot-tall SlotZilla zipline), visitors can enjoy complimentary live music just by walking the seven-block venue.