PAC-MAN’s big year continues, with an arcade pop-up at Macy’s

Bandai-Namco’s iconic, ghost-gobbling hero is rolling in 2025. Now PAC-MAN has another highlight, with a pop-up arcade in NYC.

Pop-up power pellets

Have you been following along with the year that PAC-MAN is having? The classic arcade hero is PACking in the happenings, with a new game, a guest-starring role in Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, and an appearance in the 99th edition of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. But if you thought that was all that was in store for the little yellow guy, think again.

Bandai-Namco has just revealed that there’s a slick-sounding, and free to attend, arcade that’s set to pop-up as well. That’ll be happening right in the heart of New York City’s Herald Square, inside of the location’s legendary Macy’s store (151 W 34th st).

The installation will feature “a lineup of PAC-MAN and Bandai Namco arcade games available to play for free”, according to the company. Look for the titles on hand to include “World’s Largest PAC-MAN, PAC-MAN™ Battle Royale Chompionship, and PAC-MAN™’s Pixel Bash, which includes more than 30 classic titles such as Dig Dug™, Galaga™ and the original PAC-MAN“.

That’s not all though, as there’ll also be a Gashapon machine present. Included in said machine will be some cool-sounding stuff, that includes miniatures featuring PAC-MAN and more. Gashapon tokens will be purchasable on site, which’ll get you a try, though we don’t have word on pricing.

PAC-MAN, stil chompin’

Looking to visit Macy’s and get in on the above fun? If so, you’ll find the PAC-MAN pop-up in place starting this month. The event will be found on the store’s 7th floor, and start up on November 14th (2025), running from 10am-10pm (Mondays through Thursdays). You’ll have a while to check it out too, as things don’t come to a close until January 18th, 2026.

The 14th sounds like it might be an extra-neat time too, with a planned celebration taking place from 2pm-7pm. Bandai-Namco says that fans will be find a “Meet & Greet with PAC-MAN, themed giveaways, and a free gift with purchase while supplies last”.

“PAC-MAN has spent 45 years bringing people together through the universal joy of play,” said Susan Tran, Sr. Director of Brand Development for PAC-MAN at Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. “Bringing this arcade-inspired experience to Macy’s Herald Square gives fans a new way to connect with PAC-MAN and Bandai Namco’s legacy while creating fresh memories with friends, families, and fellow gamers. We’re thrilled to share this colorful, nostalgic space with New York City during one of its most festive seasons.”

“Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has always been the stage where the world’s most beloved characters come to life, and this year we’re thrilled to welcome PAC-MAN to our iconic holiday tradition,” said Jordan Dabby, producer of Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “From soaring high above the streets of New York City to taking over Macy’s Herald Square, in New York City, PAC-MAN’s 45th Anniversary celebration continues with a one-of-a-kind Pop-Up Arcade. This immersive experience invites fans to keep the fun going with free-to-play games, Gashapon prize vending machines, and anniversary merchandise—bringing the excitement of the Parade right into the store.” 

Bandai Namco press release