Blizzard has revealed that BlizzCon, the company's huge event that's been on hiatus since 2023, will return next year with promises of hands-on gameplay and much, much moreTech16:00, 11 Mar 2025Blizzcon is back, and it's sure to be memorable(Image: Robert Paul for Blizzard Entertainment)There are few studios in the games industry with the ability to pull tens of thousands of players to a venue for a celebration of ifs franchises, but Blizzard is certainly one of them.The developer behind World of Warcraft, Diablo, Overwatch, Hearthstone, and much, much more has traditionally held its BlizzCon event most years, but it's been on hiatus since 2023.Article continues belowNow, Activision Blizzard has confirmed that the event will return in 2026, running from September 12 - 13 at the Anaheim Convention Center. Here's all we know so far about the next event, including how to get updates on tickets.Expect plenty of photo opps(Image: Robert Paul for Blizzard Entertainment)"One of our favorite traditions, BlizzCon brings us together over our shared passion for Blizzards universes, but at its heart, BlizzCon has always been about so much more. Its about you, the communities you are a part of, and gives us the chance to connect, build friendships, and create unforgettable memories together," Blizzard said via a press release."Weve come a long way since our first event in 2005. Over the past nearly 20 years since its inception, BlizzCon has inspired us to innovate, push the boundaries of creativity, and deliver once-in-a-lifetime moments."As for what will be there, fans can expect all the hits, with Blizzard saying "Its important that we put on an event worthy of our community.""For 2026, alongside BlizzCon staples like Opening Ceremony, in-depth panels, the Darkmoon Faire, friendly competition, hands-on gameplay, and more, we aim to meaningfully elevate this iconic celebration and create an unforgettable experience for all who take part in it.""We are building this event just like we build our games: with a deep commitment to our players, with respect for your connections to our universes, and as a celebration of the strength of the bonds formed through shared adventure."Blizzcon is a huge celebration of every one of the studio's franchises(Image: Blizzard)Given Blizzard hasn't got any further games slated for release between now and then, there's a good chance those "hands-on gameplay" opportunities will be tied to its tentpole franchises.The last BlizzCon was 2023's edition, which was streamed free to all but its digital ticket included in-game goodies. It revealed the next trio of World of Warcraft expansions dubbed 'The Worldsoul Saga', with the War Within launching last year. The next expansion, Midnight, is currently without a release window.The studio also announced World of Warcraft Cataclysm Classic, as well as seasonal information for Diablo 4 as well as the first expansion, Vessel of Hatred.Elsewhere, new Overwatch hero Mauga was revealed, fresh Hearthstone sets, and the first raid for Warcraft Rumble which launched that weekend.Article continues belowKeen to make the trip? You can sign up for updates at BlizzCon.com. I'm off to price up flights...For more of the latest news from the Daily Star, make sure you sign up for one of our newsletters here.