Birmingham will host two of the world’s largest gaming events in March 2026, as DreamHack makes its UK debut and ESL One returns for its fourth UK edition.
DreamHack Birmingham will bring together gaming communities for esports tournaments, cosplay, live music, tabletop games, and internet culture. ESL One Birmingham will feature 16 of the world’s top Dota 2 teams competing for a $1 million prize pool, with the final three days held before a live audience.
“Esports has exploded into one of the fastest-growing parts of our economy,” said Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands. “With world-class studios already here, and backing from gaming’s biggest names, we’re making the West Midlands the UK’s number one place to create, watch and play esports.”
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Shahin Zarrabi, VP Festivals at ESL FACEIT Group (EFG), said: “The UK has one of the world’s most passionate gaming communities, yet it’s still underserved when it comes to festivals that unite every part of gaming culture. That’s why we’re bringing DreamHack to Birmingham — a city with a proven track record and the perfect stage for our UK debut.”
Álvaro Sánchez Velasco, Product Manager Dota 2 at EFG, added: “Returning to Birmingham with ESL One is a huge moment for us and the Dota 2 community. This year is even more special as we join forces with DreamHack to create a truly unique festival atmosphere.”
According to data by Statista featured in the event’s official announcement, the UK esports market is growing rapidly, with revenues projected at $250.7 million in 2025 and nearly 24 million users by 2029. DreamHack festivals reach over 200,000 visitors globally and tens of millions online, highlighting a potential to bring together the UK’s gaming community.
Both events will take place at NEC Group venues: DreamHack at NEC Birmingham (March 27–29) and ESL One at bp pulse LIVE (March 22–29). Last year’s ESL One Birmingham drew over 18,000 attendees and peaked at 327,000 online viewers.
Tickets go on sale from September 23 on dreamhack.com/birmingham and esl-one.com/birmingham. Three-day DreamHack tickets start at £39, rising to £59 after two weeks, while ESL One three-day tickets start at £89. Ticket holders can access both events, though bp pulse LIVE entry is capacity-limited.
