SPIEL Essen 2026 to expand across eight halls in Germany

The SPIEL Essen board game fair is preparing for its 2026 edition, which is set to take place from October 22 to 25. For the first time, the event will utilize all eight halls of the Messe Essen, providing 81,200 square meters of exhibition space and accommodating up to 230,000 visitors. Organizers note that tickets are available exclusively online, with no on-site box office.

Amidst the preparations for the large-scale event, board game publishers such as Fireside Games are highlighting new developments. Justin De Witt, Chief Creative Officer at Fireside Games, discussed the company’s history and his background as a game designer behind titles like Castle Panic and Hotshots.