Images: Rundle Mall Plaza (supplied) and Rundle Mall
Adelaide, get ready. Power Up is back for 2025 and this year it’s bigger, bolder, and best of all, completely free. Returning for its third year in partnership with AVCon, the two-day festival will take over Rundle Mall Plaza on Friday, September 12, and Saturday, September 13, bringing an action-packed lineup of gaming, cosplay, creativity, and community fun.
Last year saw more than 2,000 people get amongst the fun, and this year organisers are promising to go even bigger with new activities, expanded spaces, and plenty of surprises across all four levels.
From retro games and VR activations to console tournaments, tabletop challenges, and community artist stalls, there’s something for everyone. Families can also take a breather in the Level 1 food court kids’ zone while still soaking up the energy.
And the viral video game Silksong – that sold over 3 million copies and $50 million in revenue in just three days – will also be featured!
“Power Up is the perfect way for families to experience something exciting and inclusive together,” says Tiana Capponi from Rundle Mall Plaza.
“There’s something for everyone; from hardcore gamers to curious first timers, and it’s all free.”
The idea for Power Up was inspired by the Plaza’s unique setup as the only building in Rundle Mall with a dedicated gaming and tech level. With JB Hi-Fi, EB Games, and ShinTokyo as anchors, a gaming celebration was the natural next step.
Partnering with AVCon, known for its large-scale pop culture conventions, allowed the team to create a mini city-based version of AVCon that brings the same energy, without the price tag.
This year’s lineup includes the fan-favourite scavenger hunt, spanning from lower ground to Level 2 and turning the Plaza into an interactive playground. Tournaments and Cosplay competitions are also back, promising vibrant costumes, creative performances, and prizes for the best-dressed attendees.
“Each year, more people get involved, and the creativity is incredible,” says Tiana. “We love seeing the energy that cosplay brings to the event.”
For the first time, celebrations will spill into Rundle Mall itself, ensuring even casual shoppers can be swept into the action. An opening performance at 5.30pm on Friday night will set the tone for an unforgettable weekend.
Whether you’re a gamer, an anime enthusiast, a cosplayer, or just looking for something fun and free to do with the family, Power Up 2025 is a must. With giveaways, live performances, interactive tech, and a strong sense of community, it’s shaping up as Adelaide’s ultimate free gaming festival.
When: Friday, September 12 5pm -9pm & Saturday, September 13 10am-5pm
Where: Rundle Mall Plaza
For sneak peeks and updates, follow @teamavcon and @rundlemallplaza
