Blizzard Entertainment, the legendary video game developer behind iconic franchises like World of Warcraft, StarCraft, and Overwatch, has announced the triumphant return of its beloved fan convention, BlizzCon, in 2026. For years, BlizzCon has been a sacred event for gamers and fans worldwide, serving as a vibrant celebration of Blizzard’s richly crafted universes, its passionate community, and the shared love for the worlds and characters that have captivated millions. After a hiatus in 2024 and 2025, the event is set to make its grand comeback in September 2026, giving fans something incredible to look forward to.
For those who might not be familiar, BlizzCon is more than just a convention—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Since its debut in 2005, it has grown into a two-day extravaganza where fans gather to immerse themselves in Blizzard’s games, attend panels with developers, participate in friendly competitions, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. The event is a testament to the power of shared passion and the deep bonds forged through gaming. However, in recent years, Blizzard and its parent company, Activision Blizzard, have been navigating significant changes, including the massive acquisition by Microsoft Gaming in 2023. This shift led to a focus on internal integration and restructuring, which unfortunately meant that BlizzCon had to take a backseat.
But now, the wait is over. Blizzard has officially confirmed that BlizzCon will return on September 12-13, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center in California. This venue has been the home of BlizzCon for many years, and it’s where the last in-person event took place in 2023, shortly after Microsoft finalized its historic $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The 2026 event promises to be bigger and better than ever, blending the classic BlizzCon traditions—such as the Opening Ceremony, in-depth developer panels, the whimsical Darkmoon Faire, and hands-on gameplay experiences—with new innovations aimed at elevating the overall experience.
To build anticipation, Blizzard President Johanna Faries will be discussing the return of BlizzCon in more detail during her panel at SXSW (South by Southwest) on Tuesday. Moderated by the charismatic Conan O’Brien, this panel will likely offer fans their first glimpse into what they can expect from the 2026 event. While we don’t have all the details yet, Blizzard has made it clear that this comeback is about more than just the games—it’s about the community that makes them special. The company has emphasized that BlizzCon is a celebration of the connections fans have made through Blizzard’s universes, the friendships forged, and the unforgettable memories created over the years.
Blizzard has also shared that the road to BlizzCon 2026 has already begun. The company is actively working on building an event that lives up to its legacy while pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. True to its DNA, Blizzard is approaching this comeback with the same dedication and love it pours into its games. The team is committed to delivering an unforgettable experience that honors the fans who have supported them for nearly two decades. Whether you’re a long-time attendee or a newcomer to the Blizzard universe, BlizzCon 2026 promises to be an event you won’t want to miss.
For those eager to stay up-to-date on the latest news, Blizzard has encouraged fans to visit BlizzCon.com and sign up for updates. This way, they can be among the first to know when tickets go on sale, receive special offers, and get exclusive insights into the planning process. In the meantime, the company has invited everyone to follow along on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses of how the event is coming together.
In short, BlizzCon is back, and it’s going to be epic. For fans who have missed the energy, excitement, and sense of connection that this event brings, the wait is almost over. September 2026 can’t come soon enough, and Blizzard is pulling out all the stops to make sure that this BlizzCon is one for the books. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a casual fan, or someone who just loves the magic of Blizzard’s universes, this is the perfect opportunity to come together and celebrate the power of games to unite us all. Let the countdown begin!
