Racing to the Mud-Soaked Carnival in Wacken
The Wacken heavy metal festival, which took place in Schleswig-Holstein's Wacken this summer, has announced its lineup for 2026. Def Leppard has been confirmed as a headliner, with major acts like In Flames, Powerwolf, Savatage, and Nevermore also announced as part of the main lineup.
The first 35 bands confirmed so far for the festival, which runs from July 29 to August 1, 2026, also include Lamb of God, Emperor, Sepultura (in their last German festival show), Running Wild, The Gathering (exclusive German appearance), Tryptikon (special best-of set with world premieres), and Blood Fire Death (a Bathory tribute, Germany exclusive), among many others.
The festival was affected by adverse weather conditions this year, with up to 39.3 liters of rain per square meter at the start. Large parts of the area turned into mud and sludge, but the event was officially sold out with 85,000 fans.
Despite the challenging conditions, the festival was a success, with event director Daniel Schlatter stating that the arrival was relaxed and that they can handle mud. Thomas Jensen, the festival founder and organizer, praised the metal fans for creating a great atmosphere in the mud and sludge.
Bands like Papa Roach, Machine Head, Saltatio Mortis, Apocalyptica, BAP, and guitarist Michael Schenker performed at this year's festival. The performance of Guns N' Roses sparked different reactions, with organizer Holger Hübner saying they were happy and Thomas Jensen stating that it depends on the viewer's perspective.
In 2026, ticket prices for the Wacken heavy metal festival will increase from 333 to 349 euros. Those who secure one of the first 10,000 tickets on-site will have the 16 euro price increase credited for food.
The organizers paid tribute to the late rock icon Ozzy Osbourne with a drone show during the festival. The show included the projection "Ozzy we love you", the Osbourne song "Mama, I'm Coming Home", and the Black Sabbath number "Paranoid".
In other news, the number of recorded offenses has decreased compared to 2024, from 86 to 68, according to the head of the Itzehoe police directorate, Frank Matthiesen. Nearly 1,000 helpers were on duty, including 700 volunteers, to ensure the safety of the festival-goers.
For the departure of the fans, 30 tractors were ready, but self-help efforts from the fans are relied upon to avoid further damage to the fields. Around 2,800 people were treated, and 150 fans were taken to a hospital. There was a slight increase in around 150 cases of other incidents, such as confused people.
When the rain came on Wednesday, no one was panicking anymore, according to rescue service director Volker Böhm. The organizers brought in 3,500 cubic meters of wood chips to stabilize the surfaces, which is 600 more than usual. For the departure of the fans, self-help efforts from the fans are relied upon to avoid further damage to the fields.
The organizers have not yet announced the lineup for the Wacken heavy metal festival in 2026, but they mentioned they have time for Metallica. Those who are eagerly waiting for other bands to be announced for the 2026 lineup will have to wait a bit longer.
References:
[1] Wacken Open Air 2026: Def Leppard, In Flames, Powerwolf, Savatage and Nevermore confirmed
[2] Wacken Open Air 2026: Lineup Announced
[3] Wacken Open Air 2026: First 35 Bands Confirmed
[4] Def Leppard to Headline Wacken Open Air 2026
[5] Wacken Open Air 2026: More Bands Announced
- The 2026 lineup for Wacken Open Air includes Def Leppard, In Flames, Powerwolf, Savatage, and Nevermore, making it an exciting event for fans of heavy metal entertainment.
- Festival-goers can also look forward to watching performances by other major acts like Lamb of God, Emperor, Sepultura, Running Wild, and Papas Roach, adding even more entertainment to the schedule for Wacken Open Air 2026.
