DreamHack Birmingham 2026 - UK's First Gaming Festival Arrives at NEC

In a landmark moment for British gaming culture, DreamHack Birmingham 2026 will mark the first time the world-renowned gaming festival has been held on UK soil in its 20-year history. The three-day event is scheduled for March 27-29 at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), promising an unprecedented celebration of gaming, esports, and digital entertainment.

A Historic First for UK Gaming

DreamHack, which originated in Sweden in 1994, has grown into one of the most prestigious gaming festivals globally. The decision to bring the event to Birmingham reflects the UK's rapidly growing status in the esports market, with revenues projected to reach $250.7 million in 2025 and user numbers expected to hit nearly 24 million by 2029.

The festival will transform the NEC into a gaming paradise, featuring esports tournaments, cosplay competitions, live music performances, creator showcases, indie game exhibitions, and tabletop gaming areas. Attendees can expect an immersive experience that celebrates every facet of gaming culture.

What to Expect at DreamHack Birmingham

The event will feature several major attractions that cater to diverse gaming interests. The ESL One Dota 2 tournament will bring world-class competitive gaming to the venue, while the Call of Duty League Major II promises intense first-person shooter action. Halo competitions will also feature prominently, giving fans of the iconic franchise a chance to witness top-tier gameplay.

Beyond esports, DreamHack Birmingham will showcase indie games from developers across the globe, providing a platform for emerging talent to present their creations. The cosplay competition is expected to draw participants from across Europe, with elaborate costumes and performances celebrating beloved characters from games, anime, and pop culture.

Ticket Integration with ESL One

Running alongside DreamHack is ESL One Birmingham, scheduled for March 22-29 at bp pulse LIVE. In a fan-friendly move, all ESL One tickets include DreamHack entrance, allowing attendees to experience both events seamlessly. ESL One Birmingham returns for its fourth iteration, featuring 16 of the world's top Dota 2 teams competing for a $1 million prize pool.

Economic Impact on Birmingham

The dual events are expected to bring significant economic benefits to Birmingham and the wider West Midlands region. With nearly 40 million gamers nationwide, the UK has established itself as one of Europe's fastest-growing esports markets. The choice of Birmingham as the host city underscores the region's commitment to positioning itself as a hub for digital entertainment and technology.

Local businesses, hotels, and transport services are preparing for an influx of visitors from across the UK and internationally. The NEC's excellent transport links, including proximity to Birmingham International Airport and railway stations, make it an ideal venue for such a large-scale international event.

Tickets for DreamHack Birmingham 2026 are now available through the official DreamHack website, with various tiers offering different levels of access and experiences.