Hey guys! For this article, I want to tell you a bit about where I have been hanging out this past Easter. I've been at The Gathering (TG for short), a massive Norwegian LAN party that is arranged in the city Hamar every Easter holiday.

But firstly, what is a LAN party even? This slightly dated term originates from decades of computer- and video game enthusiasm. A LAN party is a gathering of people who bring computers and/or compatible game consoles, primarily for the purpose of playing multiplayer video games together. The game systems at the event are connected through a local area network (LAN) connection, using a router or switch - hence the name "LAN party".

LAN parties are known for having their own unique cultures. Enthusiasts often show off extravagant custom-built computers, decorated with LED lights, liquid cooling loops and other enhancements. 

Sleep is often compromised during LAN parties, as many people wish to pull all-nighters to continue playing. Unsurprisingly, energy drinks are highly popular at these events to enhance stamina and concentration. Large LAN parties can last for days without scheduled breaks, but there is often designated room separated from the LAN party to sleep.

As I've already mentioned, the LAN party I attended recently is called The Gathering. The Gathering is hosted annually in the old Olympic ice skating rank called "Vikingskipet", and it is the second largest LAN party in the world with roughly 5000 participants (only Dreamhack in Sweden is bigger).

The first time The Gathering took place was in 1992, then hosted by the demo group Crusaders (who by the way created The Gathering out of spite, after being told "to do it better themselves" when they filed complaints at another LAN party). The Gathering has grown a lot since these early days and has developed to be a complex five-day event packed with entertainment. Hosting a large event like this requires months of planning and over 400 volunteers who work hard to make everything run smoothly.

Aside from gaming, there is a lot to do at The Gathering. There is a wide array of creative competitions to enter - within cosplay, digital art, hacking/programming, music, movie editing, VFX - you name it. You can also attend concerts and lectures, or chat with game developers who display their unreleased projects. There are even shops who sell merchandise and electronics if you feel like shopping during your stay.

Personally, I'm happy to lose some sleep in order to spend my Easter at a LAN party like The Gathering.

Have you ever attended a LAN party? If not, would you like to?

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Thank you Fiskarna for the layout!