The VCT EMEA Fan Fest will transform the area around the Palau Olímpic in Badalona into one of the summer’s top gathering spots for VALORANT and esports fans. From August 28 to 30, 2026, coinciding with the VALORANT European Finals, the festival will offer free admission and a program that goes far beyond the video game itself: cosplay, meet-and-greets with creators, art, interactive activities, food, and live music.
What to Expect at the VCT EMEA Fan Fest
The Fan Fest is designed for both longtime VALORANT fans and those who want to explore the world of esports and digital culture. Over the course of three days, the Palau Olímpic in Badalona will host activities, meet-and-greet spaces, and entertainment options aimed primarily at a young audience, though the event is open to the general public.
Highlights will include in-person VALORANT tournaments, esports team booths, meet-and-greets with content creators, cosplay, and various challenges and experiences related to the world of video games.
Local art, trencadís, and creators
One of the most original aspects of the Fan Fest will be the combination of digital culture and artistic creation. Among the planned activities is the DIY Trencadís workshop, organized in collaboration with MOSAICCOS, where participants can create a keepsake inspired by their favorite VALORANT character using the traditional mosaic technique associated with Modernist architecture.
There will also be a space dedicated to creators, featuring works by local and international illustrators and sculptors, introducing the public to different ways of interpreting the VALORANT universe through art.
Food Trucks, Music, and Outdoor Area
The B Site area, located next to the pavilion’s main entrance, will be the hub of the festival’s social scene. There you’ll find food trucks, outdoor relaxation areas, and music, with nonstop entertainment provided by Red Bull’s DJ truck.
This is a particularly great spot if you want to take a break between activities or simply enjoy the Fan Fest atmosphere without having to follow the competition.
Challenges and interactive experiences
The program is rounded out with themed mini-games, photo ops, and shooting challenges that translate some of the game’s mechanics into physical and interactive experiences.
Given the variety of activities on offer, you don’t have to be a regular VALORANT player to enjoy the event: cosplay, art, music, and food significantly enhance the festival’s appeal.
Free Admission to the VCT EMEA Fan Fest
Admission to the Fan Fest is free, and you do not need a ticket to the competition finals taking place inside the venue. This allows you to visit the festival’s zones and activities regardless of whether or not you’re attending the official matches.
Schedule
- Friday, August 28: 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Saturday, August 29: 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Sunday, August 30: 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
How to Get to the Palau Olímpic in Badalona
To avoid parking problems during an event that is expected to attract thousands of visitors, the most convenient option is to use public transportation. The Palau Olímpic and its surrounding area are well-connected:
- Metro: Lines L2 and L10 Nord.
- Trambesòs: Gorg station.
- Rodalies: Line R1.
- Bus: Among other options, line H10.
If you’re into video games, cosplay, or digital culture, the VCT EMEA Fan Fest is your chance to experience the atmosphere of a major international VALORANT tournament without having to buy a ticket to the matches—and to enjoy music, food, art, and free activities all weekend long.
