5 reasons you can’t miss Squid Game: The Experience in NYC this fall

No, this isn’t your passive, walk-through kind of fan event. Rather, Squid Game: The Experience lets you explore your competitive side by going head-to-head with other brave contestants in intense challenges lifted straight from the iconic Netflix series, plus a handful of brand-new games built exclusively for the New York event. Outsmart the eerie Young-hee doll in Red Green Light, test your nerves on the treacherous Memory Steps, go all-out in the epic Warships game and more, in tests and trials masterminded by the infamous Front Man. You’ll be able to see who comes out on top with a live leaderboard and real-time scoring system, so give it everything you’ve got!

All of that gameplay will no doubt have you working up an appetite. Luckily for you and your stomach, Squid Game: The Experience will let you celebrate your wins and unwind from that physical activity and mental strategy at a Korean-inspired Night Market packed with delicious food-and-drink offerings. Sample an array of classic Korean bites and international snacks as well as a full bar offering both non-alcoholic beverages and cocktails infused with soju, the national drink of South Korea. (Geonbae!) Will those famous dalgona candies from the show be part of the Night Market’s sweet selections? You’ll have to come and find out!

Given how acclaimed Squid Game is for its eye-catching production design and costuming—the Netflix series rightfully took home the Emmy for Outstanding Production Design in 2022—it’s fitting that Squid Game: The Experience honors the show’s exceptional world-building with iconic environments, set recreations and familiar characters pulled straight from the drama’s episodes. Mirroring the stunning aesthetics of the dystopian series, there will be plenty of unique photo opportunities stationed throughout the immersive space so you can document your experience for social media and bragging rights. (Speaking of, you can follow Squid Game: The Experience on Facebook and Instagram for the most up-to-date info about the activation.) 

The Squid Game-themed fun doesn’t have to end when you leave. An exclusive merchandise collection has been created for Squid Game: The Experience, with items available for purchase at the on-site merch store, the Squid Mart. Browse exclusive Squid Game collectibles, toys, apparel and games, whether you want to snag one of the show’s signature green tracksuits for yourself or take home your very own Young-hee doll. An “Anytime VIP Admission” ticket package—priced at $59, including elite perks like priority entry, VIP Lounge access, complimentary coat check and a free drink—will also get you an exclusive Squid Game mask as well as discount coupons for merchandise.

Yes, a second season of Netflix’s Squid Game is officially on its way, with a release date set for Thursday, December 26. (Excitingly, a third and final season will also be dropping in 2025.) And while regular viewers will simply have to wait to reunite with Seong Gi-hun and the rest of the show’s beloved characters, you can join fellow in-the-know fans by being ahead of the game—literally!—and getting your Squid Game fix early with this engaging, enveloping look into the show’s thrilling universe. Squid Game: The Experience is open to all ages, so bring your friends, family and fiercest competitors along. Tickets start at $29 for general admission and $45 for VIP packages—buy your tickets now for the best price!