Retro arcade and casual chess nights at Campsie Library, held twice monthly on Friday evenings from 17:30–19:30 — social, family-friendly library events.
Friday 6 February 2026
to Friday 18 December 2026
5:30pm - 7:30pm
14-28 Amy St, Campsie NSW 2194, Australia
Free
Relive the feel-good nostalgia of arcade games and relaxed chess evenings at Campsie Library and Knowledge Centre. This event is perfect for parents of school-aged children looking for a low-pressure, social outing that taps into classic gaming culture and local library events.
Step into a friendly community atmosphere where retro arcade games, 2D fighters and casual chess mingle. You’ll find other parents, young adults and kids sharing consoles, swapping tips and enjoying a relaxed night out at the library — great for social connection and family fun.
Activities are uncompetitive and social by design, with no prizes and no pressure; it’s about community, nostalgia and letting kids and adults enjoy screen time together in a safe, public setting. Expect a mix of board-style chess matches and controller-based retro gaming.
Bring-your-own controller is welcome (PS4, PS5, Switch or Wii), but only standard, non-modified games are permitted. Staff can help accommodate setups if you ask ahead — the event is run to be inclusive and accessible, ideal for parents planning quality time with their children.
This program runs twice a month on Friday evenings from 17:30–19:30, with scheduled dates across the year. Events include Chess Challenge nights and Arcade nights; families can choose what suits them and drop in as their schedule allows.
No booking is required, which makes it easy for busy parents to pop in after work or school pickup. The sessions are suitable for a wide range of ages and skill levels — from beginners learning chess to teens mastering retro beat 'em ups.
The vibe is casual and community-focused: attendees can meet new people, enjoy retro gaming nostalgia and use library facilities. If you need particular equipment or space for a console setup, contact the library in advance to arrange assistance.
Events are held at Campsie Library and Knowledge Centre, located in Campsie 2194, a short walk from local public transport and with nearby parking options. The library space is accessible and family-friendly, making it straightforward to attend with children.
Facilities include accessible toilets and standard library amenities, and staff are experienced in welcoming families and ensuring a safe environment. If you require specific accessibility support, the library team can advise ahead of time.
Map and directions are available through the library's information desk; plan your trip around school pick-up times to make the evening stress-free and enjoyable. The location is central to the Campsie community and frequently hosts popular library events.
This is a social, non-competitive event with no prizes — the focus is on fun, community and safe play. Only non-modified game software and standard controllers are permitted; any unusual setups should be discussed with staff beforehand to ensure compatibility and safety.
Parents are responsible for supervising school-aged children attending the event. The library encourages respectful behaviour and will support families who need guidance on suitable games and sessions for different ages.
Sessions can change dates or times occasionally, so check the library's events calendar if you’re planning a special visit. Bringing a small padlock or labelled bag for personal controllers can help keep your gear secure during the evening.
There is no cost to attend — the event is free, making it an affordable option for family nights out or a casual Friday escape. No bookings are required, which suits last-minute plans and busy family schedules.
If you need a guaranteed space or have a large group, contact the library in advance to discuss options and availability. The friendly staff can advise on the best nights for chess vs arcade focus.
Keep an eye on the library's events listings for specific dates (the program runs twice monthly) and any special themed nights. Free community library events are designed to be inclusive and supportive of families and local residents.
