The pinball community is gathering in Schaumburg, Illinois this weekend for Pinball Expo 2025. The show runs October 17-20 at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center, and it’s packed with stuff worth checking out.
The Stern Tour and What Makes It Special
Friday brings the Stern Pinball Tour. If you’re signed up, you’ll get a surprise gift and access to exclusive merchandise that’s only available to tour participants. Stern knows how to take care of their fans.
They’re also running a drawing for a John Wick Premium Pinball Machine. Not a bad door prize.
Events Worth Your Time
The schedule is full. Here’s what stands out:
The Monster League Hockey Cosplay Contest brings together two niche hobbies in one place. The Freedom to Play Pinball Tournament gives competitive players a chance to prove themselves.
Jersey Jack is giving away a Limited-Edition Avatar: The Battle for Pandora machine. They’re also running a free play area with every game they’ve ever made. That’s a lot of machines.
Don’s Top Topper Competition highlights the creative side of pinball—those flashy toppers that sit on cabinets make a difference.
Hands-On Workshops
Build A Blinkie’s Learn-To-Solder Workshop teaches you actual skills. Same with The Pinball Scientist’s Build-Your-Own-Pinball-Machine Workshop. These aren’t just demonstrations—you’ll leave knowing more than when you arrived.
The Details That Matter
The show features a 1930’s section for vintage enthusiasts. Marco Pinball brings their homebrew section and parts store, which is helpful if you need hard-to-find components.
Project Pinball runs a silent auction throughout the weekend. The Cup Sculpture Knock-Down Raffle adds a different kind of game to the mix.
Can’t Make the Show?
If you’re not heading to Schaumburg this weekend, Pinballs.com has you covered. Our showroom stays open with over 100 games ready to play. You can test machines, compare models, and get a feel for what you want in your game room—no expo badge required.
Stop by and see what’s new. We’re here when you’re ready to play.
Photography Credit: Jim Schelberg