The Return of the Ancestors event in Path of Exile brings back the popular Trial of the Ancestors mechanic in a limited-time, three-week event. Players can once again compete in the Karui tournament system, unlock exclusive Tattoos, and experience reworked Ascendancy systems.
Event Schedule
Category
Date & Time (PDT)
Date & Time (UTC reference)
Start
June 25, 2026 – 3:00 PM PDT
June 25, 2026
End
July 16, 2026 – 3:00 PM PDT
July 16, 2026
Duration
3 Weeks
Limited-time event
Platforms & Game Modes
Feature
Availability
Platforms
PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Core Modes
Standard, Hardcore
Solo Self-Found
Standard SSF, Hardcore SSF
Ruthless Mode
Available (Phrecian system applied)
Void Status
Not voided (items persist after event ends)
Key Event Overview
During the event, players will:
Collect Silver Coins in zones across Wraeclast
Enter the Karui Afterlife tournament system
Build a team of warriors and challenge Karui chieftains
Earn exclusive rewards including Tattoos and Mystery Boxes
This event is based on the Mirage-era implementation of the Ancestors system with updated mechanics.
Ascendancy System Changes
System Element
Change
Standard Ascendancies
Replaced by 19 Phrecian Ascendancy classes
Reliquarian Ascendancy
Disabled (no Phrecian version)
Atlas Idols
Not available
Ascendancy Respec
Happens on migration after event ends
Class Assignment
Migrate into core Ascendancy after event
Tattoos System (Exclusive Content)
Returning & New Tattoos
Type
Description
Legacy Tattoos
Classic Trial of the Ancestors Tattoos return
New Event Tattoos
Exclusive Tattoos usable on Ascendancy Classes
Forbidden Tattoos
Special Tattoos tied to base Ascendancies
Forbidden Tattoo List
Ascendancy Type
Ranger
Duelist
Marauder
Templar
Witch
Shadow
Scion
Note: Forbidden Tattoos grant passive effects based on regular Ascendancies (or Ruthless variants in Ruthless mode).
Rewards Overview
Guaranteed Reward
Condition
Reward
Kill Kitava (Act 10)
Return of the Ancients Mystery Box (1 per account per event)
