Manitou board game convention enters its final year
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Board games. Photo: Axios
The Pikes Peak Gaming Convention is taking one last turn, April 10–12.
Why it matters: The board game gathering is the only one of its kind outside of the Denver metro area, and offers an annual draw to Manitou Springs.
Yes, but: Event founder Jose Balderrama says his wife, Jenny, and the 13 volunteers he calls his "found family" have been running the event since 2018 — and now need a break.
By the numbers: Balderrama says he has more than 1,500 board games available for convention-goers to try.
- A full weekend pass costs $70, with limited day-of badges available for $40.
Con-text: Balderrama says he modeled his Springs convention after Board Game Geek's annual event in Dallas.
That first year, he told Axios, he aimed to keep the convention open 24/7, but players cleared out by 3am, leaving him alone in the Manitou Springs City Hall on an air mattress.
- At 4:30am, the lights snapped on and a local police officer walked in.
- Startled awake, and "surrounded by board games," he had to quickly explain himself.
What they're saying: Balderrama says that the convention has never been about making money, but sharing a passion for a hobby that changed his life.
- "The board games I have, 99% of the time they're sitting there idle, and I want 'em to see action."
What we're watching: Balderrama is calling the step-back a pause, and says he hopes to restart the con someday, or inspire others to start something similar.
If you go: Parking is often pricey in Manitou Springs, so consider stashing your car farther away and using the free shuttle.
- Check the convention schedule for special events, or create your own event time slot to play with like-minded gamers.
- Don't be shy when you walk in — ask the "game sommelier" for suggestions, or sit at any table with the "looking for players" flag.
What's next: Balderrama says his gamer group website and Facebook page will stay active post-convention.
- Balderrama tells Axios the group may restart its "Bits and Brews" series, bringing board games to local brewpubs for game nights.