FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The UK’s most beloved and iconic LAN event and gaming festival will return in May 2026.
Insomnia’s i74 will take place at a fantastic new venue, the Staffordshire County Showground, from 30th April to 3rd May 2026.
First launched over 25 years ago, Insomnia fast became a landmark event in the UK gaming calendar as the place where avid PC gamers and the esports elite came together under one roof. With its vibrant atmosphere, legendary tournaments, and mix of high-stakes contests and light-hearted gaming challenges, it earned a loyal following spanning decades.
Now Modern Wolf, Emblem Events & Exhibitions, High Viz Media (Group) Ltd, and Protec European Events, have joined forces to bring back this British gaming institution, with a promise to return the event to its roots.
These companies have a long history of involvement in past Insomnia events and a proven track record as industry leaders in creating technologically demanding, in-person experiences. Collectively, they bring decades of expertise in gaming, live events, and publishing, united by a shared commitment to delivering Insomnia to the highest possible standard and setting a new benchmark for competitive and community gaming.
At its heart, i74 will be a full-scale LAN party, bringing gamers from around the world together for days of intense multiplayer action.
Alongside the LAN experience, the festival will also feature a packed schedule of casual and competitive PC gaming tournaments, the latest PC hardware showcased, cosplay competitions, and, of course, the return of the World Famous Insomnia Pub Quiz.
Both LAN ticket holders and day visitors can look forward to a wide range of activities, shows and giveaways, exclusive merchandise and the opportunity to win top-tier gaming hardware.
Leading UK gaming vendors will be on site, along with globally recognised hardware brands and cutting-edge independent game developers.
Gamers will have the opportunity to experience first-look launches of new titles and explore Modern Wolf’s Indie Game Demo Zone where emerging developers will present their latest projects to the public for the first time.
In a festival first, Insomnia will host a continuous, 24-hour live-stream, ensuring the action never stops.
To make it easier than ever to join the fun, i74 will offer free parking, on-site camping, shuttle bus services, and – for the first time ever – on-site creche spaces, so visitors can stay all weekend without missing a moment.
i74 is an opportunity to capture the thrill of the early days while experiencing a new level of competitive and community-driven gaming - the kind of event where you can connect with like-minded players, share unforgettable experiences, and forge friendships that last long after the weekend ends.
Michael Virks, Head of Operations at Modern Wolf said:
“Bringing Insomnia back is a dream come true. With our new venue, a new partnership, and a renewed focus on what made the event great in the first place, we’re going right back to Insomnia’s roots, showcasing the latest in gaming technology and culture. Whether you remember the early days or are discovering the festival for the first time, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”
Tickets will be released on a strictly first-come, first-served basis, with limited availability and high demand expected. They go on sale from 18th August 2025 via https://www.insomniagamingfestival.com, and are anticipated to sell out quickly.
ENDS
For more information, contact Michael Virks – press@insomniagamingfestival.com