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EPIC.LAN Joins As Official Networking Provider

Insomnia Gaming Festival is gearing up for a major return in 2026, and its latest move brings a familiar name into the spotlight. The organisers have confirmed a new partnership with EPIC.LAN, which will serve as the official networking provider for the upcoming i74 event.

EPIC.LAN is a well known force in the UK’s grassroots esports and LAN scene, with more than 20 years of experience running BYOC events. With that track record, Insomnia says the group is an ideal fit to support the robust LAN infrastructure required for the festival’s next chapter.

A Bigger Venue And A Bigger LAN Party

The i74 expo will take place at its new home, the Staffordshire County Showgrounds. The move offers much more room to grow, including space for up to 1,400 BYOC attendees and a 20,000 square foot arena for the main Insomnia exhibition.

Insomnia Gaming Festival will run from 30 April to 3 May 2026, with tickets now available through the official website. The collaboration with EPIC.LAN is one of several updates arriving as the event rebuilds momentum after a turbulent period.

EPIC.LAN’s Busy Schedule Continues

Alongside its work with Insomnia, EPIC.LAN recently wrapped up EPIC46 in partnership with Intel Gaming. Its next event, EPIC47, is set for 19 to 22 February 2026, landing just weeks before the i74 festivities kick off.

Insomnia’s Road To A Comeback

Insomnia remains one of the longest running LAN parties in the UK, inviting players to bring their own rigs for 25 years of gaming, tournaments, and community events. However, its future looked uncertain after the organiser’s exit in 2024.

Player1 Events, which previously ran Insomnia, laid off staff following i73 and faced allegations of unpaid fees owed to creators and small traders. The controversy raised concerns, leading the festival into a temporary pause.

Insomnia relaunched earlier this year under new management and published a statement addressing the issues. According to the organisers, redundancy pay was offered to affected staff, outstanding creator payments were put forward for resolution, and free tickets that had been promised were honoured. These steps helped ease community concerns and marked the start of a major reputation rebuild.

A Rebuilding Year For The Festival

Since returning, Insomnia has partnered with a growing list of industry names, including Modern Wolf, Protec, Emblem Events, and High Viz Media, which is supporting online broadcasts and stage content. The addition of EPIC.LAN signals another push to reinforce the festival’s infrastructure and restore trust with its community.

With a larger venue, a trusted networking provider, and renewed commitment to attendees, Insomnia i74 is shaping up to be one of the most important events in the festival’s history.