Arcade At Events: The Trend Taking Over The Market
Family celebrations, birthdays, bar mitzvah parties and even corporate events — all have become a serious revenue opportunity for arcade operators. The moment people start looking for entertainment for their event is the moment your golden hour begins.
Which Events Are The Best Fit
Kids birthdays (3–10): prize machines, ride simulators and basketball cabinets. Kids want a prize to take home — that drives repeat play and high satisfaction.
Adult birthdays: action games, VR machines, classic pinball. Add a bar and you have a full experience.
Corporate events: team tournaments, multiplayer racing and rhythm games for team-building activities.
Barcade-style events: retro classics paired with alcohol — a fast-growing global trend.
Which Machines Fit Which Events
- Kids birthdays: prize machines, ride simulators, hand-eye skill games
- Adult birthdays: VR, classic shooters, guitar and drums
- Corporate events: multiplayer racing, group shooters, billiards
Logistics and Setup
Route planning: arrange machines to encourage movement. Do not cluster too many machines in one spot — it creates congestion.
Trained staff: assign 2–3 staff who can help players and guide newcomers.
Photo moments: identify strong photo spots at your machines. Social sharing is free marketing.
Pricing and Revenue
Machine rental: $120–$350 per hour. Suitable for short events.
Full equipment package: includes staff, setup, transport and breakdown. Suitable for larger events.
Revenue share: the venue takes a share of the take in return for offering discounted access to guests. A win-win.
Events and parties can represent 20–30% of an arcade business’s annual revenue. Invest in active partnerships with event planners in your area.
