A gaming tournament with a twist is coming to York…
Get ready to dodge shells, bananas and Bullet Bills as you race your way through Rainbow Road to victory, as a new Mario Kart Tournament is coming to York – where all the music will be played by a live band.
The game sounds will be muted and all the music and sound effects will be provided live by a spectacular band.
The Mario Kart Live Tournament is coming to The Basement at City Screen York, on Friday 31 July 2026.
Tickets for the event are now on sale here – and they’re already selling fast. Racer tickets are available at £15 and spectator tickets at £10.
The event is organised by Ryan Willis, who also founded and runs the annual sell-out York Board Game Convention.
“I’m so excited that we’ve put together this evening of music, gaming, nostalgia and fun,” said organiser Ryan Willis.
“Half the tickets are already gone some four months before we open the doors, and we’ve heard that people are going to be dressing up as their favourite characters from the Nintendo world. The band are just brilliant as well, so it’s going to be a night to remember!
“It’s such a joy to be able to bring together the community for this sort of thing, and I’m excited to do more things like this for York in the future.”
There will be a prize for the tournament winner, but so far details are being kept under wraps.
“A couple of people have asked if it’s going to be highly competitive and the answer is – absolutely not,” said Ryan. “This is going to be light hearted silliness with a live band and some great fun nostalgic gaming thrown in.”
Expect a night of crazy chaos and nostalgic fun, with a wild range of music from funk and jazz to dance and metal – as well as costumes, props, and even more surprises. Dressing up is encouraged!
See you at the start line in July…
