Gamescom to Host First European Games Done Quick Charity Speedrun Event in 2026
Similar Articles
Consumer Rights Advocates Address EU Parliament on Game Preservation and Age Verification Laws
European Parliament Hearing Examines Legal Protections for Games After Service Shutdowns
Devolver Digital Showcases New Games at London Festival Amid Market Uncertainty
Enhanced Games Announces Broadcast Team for Inaugural Event
Immersive 'Luminiscence' Experience to Premiere in Hamburg's St. Michaelis Church
Gamescom will host a special three-day Games Done Quick (GDQ) speedrunning event in August 2026, marking the first time the major charity marathon will be held in Europe. The event will raise funds for Gaming for Democracy, an initiative supporting civic engagement through gaming. It will be accessible both live in Cologne and via global livestreams.
Facts First
- First-ever European Games Done Quick (GDQ) event to be held at Gamescom from August 28-30, 2026.
- Fundraising for Gaming for Democracy, an initiative supporting civic engagement and democratic values.
- Accessible globally via livestream on GDQ's Twitch and YouTube channels and live for Gamescom attendees.
- Submissions for European speedrunners open May 4th, with the full schedule to be announced later.
- GDQ has raised over $60 million for charities worldwide since its founding in 2010.
What Happened
Gamescom will host a special three-day Games Done Quick (GDQ) speedrunning event from August 28th to August 30th, 2026. This is the first-ever Games Done Quick (GDQ) event to be hosted in Europe. Daily programming will run from approximately 10am CEST to 8pm CEST. The event will raise money for Gaming for Democracy, an initiative created in partnership with Bertelsmann Stiftung and Stiftung Digitale Spielekultur to support civic engagement and democratic values through gaming culture.
Why this Matters to You
If you're a fan of speedrunning or gaming charity events, you will have a new major event to watch or attend in 2026. The event's European location may make it easier for you to attend in person if you live on the continent. The choice of charity means your viewership or donations could support initiatives aimed at strengthening democratic values through gaming culture, which may align with your interests beyond pure entertainment.
What's Next
Submissions for European speedrunners to participate in the event open on May 4th via the Games Done Quick (GDQ) website. The full schedule for the Gamescom GDQ event will be announced at a later date. The event's success could pave the way for more GDQ events in Europe in the future.