Spring: synonymous with even crazier encounters at ÎLO! 

Spring got off to a flying start for the ÎLO team! From east to west, from professionals to consumers, from families to enthusiasts… we’ve been everywhere (well, almost) this season. Here’s a look back at a jam-packed spring, where we planted games and harvested beautiful moments! 

Montréal Learning Fair: meeting families and professionals in child care, education, and schooling 

We kicked off April on the right foot at the Learning Fair, where our booth drew in curious little ones and grown-ups alike. Educational games, cooperative games, puzzles, favorites… our products found happy new owners right on the spot! We didn’t expect such a big turnout—you came in such large numbers!!! We’re already looking forward to future editions! 

Above all, this fair was a great opportunity to connect with many professionals from the school and early childhood sectors, as well as families looking for original, fun games adapted to different needs and occasions. Many of you loved Molu’s Bilibos, Loki’s Cache Cache Loustic, Djeco’s Memo Garden, and Facteur Souris illustrated by Marianne Dubuc! 

A big thank-you to everyone who came to discover our games and chat with us! 

Canada Plays: on the professional side, things are moving too! 

April was also packed with professional events. We took part in Canada Plays 2025, a major Canadian event highlighting the richness of our sector. As an official partner, ÎLO was at the heart of this national showcase for board games, alongside other key industry players! 

Gathering of Friends – Marc’s words 

''What a week! Seven days of playing, laughing, connecting, and meeting other enthusiasts like me—it was just so cool. Non-stop fun, and I already can’t wait to do it again. I love my life! 

The Gathering of Friends is so much more than an event: it’s a bubble of pure gaming joy. A warm atmosphere, memorable encounters, and above all, a shared passion that brings everyone together around the table. 

Highlights included: 

• Meeting Martin Wallace (yes, the Wallace!) and discovering several of his games. 

• Quality time with our friends at PTS and Surfin’ Meeple—always a pleasure! 

• An energizing chat with Simon from Le Passe Temps, a true ball of gaming energy. 

I also had the chance to play a wide variety of games, from classics to brand-new releases. Here, in no particular order, are the titles that made my week: 

Steam Power, Priorities, Dune: Uprising, Moon Colony, Casus Belli, Panda Spin, Power Vacuum, My Favorite Things, Animal Rules Football, Bacon, Zero to Hero, Air, Land & Sea, Deep Regrets, Yubibo, Nmbr9, Irish Gauge, Orleans: Invasions, Bid Coin. 

In short, pure happiness.''

JAB 2025: ÎLO in tournament mode! 

The JAB (Jeux au Boute) is THE springtime gathering for Quebec board game enthusiasts, and we wouldn’t miss it for the world! This year again, we were there for both festive weekends, with a 100% ÎLO room. 

On the menu: wild tournaments, games at all hours, and above all, amazing exchanges with a vibrant community of players from all walks of life. 

A huge thank-you to the JAB team, the hosts, and the volunteers for their warm welcome and energy. We’ll definitely see you again next year! 

ClaringCon in Bowmanville 

Our amazing Alain, who travels all over the world to attend conventions, meet our partners, and represent ÎLO, was once again on the road! ÎLO’s presence at ClaringCon was a great success, with enthusiastic crowds at our tables. 

According to Alain, Abyss and its expansion De Profundis clearly stole the show, attracting curious players throughout the event. Video Games Champion was also a big hit, thanks to its catchy theme and accessibility. Players also had the exclusive chance to try the new expansions for Pixies and Sea Salt & Paper, which sparked a lot of interest. Several prototypes from Wallace Design were also tested, piquing the curiosity of fans of more strategic games. 

The atmosphere was warm and dynamic, and the exchanges with players were rich. A very positive event for strengthening our presence with Ontario’s gaming community! 

GameOver in Saguenay 

Meanwhile, Julia was representing ÎLO at GameOver in the Saguenay. She hosted games, presented our new releases, and took time to chat with customers. A strong regional presence that’s dear to our hearts! 

This event brought together over 1,400 participants, with around forty activities on offer. Some thirty amazing volunteers, about twenty designers, as well as several partners and guests all contributed to making this edition a real success. 

And now? 

Summer looks just as exciting, with lots of projects (we’re keeping them secret for now). Stay tuned so you don’t miss any of our upcoming adventures.