38 Metal Festivals in Europe 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

Europe is a hub for metal enthusiasts, hosting some of the biggest and most exciting festivals in the world. The year 2025 promises a diverse array of events, covering various subgenres and styles within the metal scene. Below is a detailed overview of the best metal festivals in Europe in 2025, including their histories, locations, dates, and ticket information.

Be sure to check out their websites for the latest updates and ticket information!

Festival Lineup

1. Rotten Feast

Date: January 3-4, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Genres: Hardcore (Metal), Metal
Expected Attendance: 550
Ticket Price: €59.00
Tickets: Available on the official festival website.

Rotten Feast kicks off the metal year with a fierce celebration of hardcore and metal music. Set in an indoor venue in North Rhine-Westphalia, this festival attracts dedicated fans seeking a raw and energetic atmosphere. The lineup typically features both established and up-and-coming acts, offering a mix of intense performances and unforgettable moments. The festival has garnered a reputation for its tight-knit community, where fans can connect and share their passion for the genre.

2. 70000 Tons Of Metal

Date: January 30 – February 3, 2025
Duration: 5 days
Location: USA (cruise ship)
Genres: Folk, Hardcore (Metal), Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: 3,000-4,000
Ticket Price: €1,650.00
Tickets: 70000 Tons Of Metal Website

As the world’s largest heavy metal cruise, 70000 Tons Of Metal offers a unique blend of music and vacation experience. For five days, metal fans embark on a cruise ship, enjoying performances from an incredible lineup of bands while sailing to various destinations. The festival is renowned for its intimate settings, allowing fans to interact with their favorite artists. Activities include meet-and-greets, Q&A sessions, and jam sessions, making it a one-of-a-kind festival experience that combines the thrill of live music with the relaxation of a cruise.

3. Raptor Metalcore Festival

Date: February 8, 2025
Duration: 1 day
Location: Bavaria, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: 400
Ticket Price: €20.00
Tickets: Raptor Metalcore Festival Website

Raptor Metalcore Festival is a day dedicated to the metalcore genre, showcasing some of the most exciting bands in the scene. Held in Bavaria, this festival focuses on high-energy performances that are sure to get the crowd moving. Fans can expect a lineup filled with both local talent and recognized acts, creating an electrifying atmosphere. With a commitment to promoting the metalcore community, Raptor Metalcore is an essential stop for fans looking for a concentrated dose of this dynamic genre.

4. Frostfeuernächte

Date: February 13-15, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Brandenburg, Germany
Genres: Folk, Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: N/A
Ticket Price: €66.66
Tickets: Frostfeuernächte Website

Frostfeuernächte blends the realms of folk, metal, and rock, creating a festival that appeals to a wide range of musical tastes. Set in an indoor venue, attendees can enjoy a cozy atmosphere while experiencing a diverse lineup of bands. The festival emphasizes community and celebration, often incorporating traditional folk elements into its metal performances. With a rich cultural backdrop, this festival is not just about the music; it’s also an opportunity to enjoy the camaraderie among fans who share a love for these genres.

5. Hell Over Hammaburg

Date: February 28 – March 1, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Hamburg, Germany
Genres: Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: N/A
Ticket Price: €102.75
Tickets: Hell Over Hammaburg Website

Hell Over Hammaburg is known for its diverse lineup and vibrant atmosphere, making it a staple in the Hamburg metal scene. Over two days, fans are treated to a mix of metal and rock performances, featuring both established legends and emerging artists. The festival takes place in a historical venue, enhancing the experience with its unique character. Fans appreciate the sense of community and the chance to discover new bands, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about metal.

6. Up the Hammers Festival

Date: March 6-8, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Greece
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: Not available
Ticket Price: Not available
Tickets: Up the Hammers Website

Up the Hammers Festival is a celebration of traditional metal that attracts fans from across Europe. Set against the backdrop of Greece, this festival is renowned for its commitment to classic heavy metal sounds. With a lineup featuring both international acts and local favorites, attendees can expect an unforgettable experience filled with powerful performances and an enthusiastic crowd. The festival also promotes a sense of camaraderie among fans, making it a true celebration of the metal community.

7. Fuck Cancer Festival

Date: March 15, 2025
Duration: 1 day
Location: Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: N/A
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Fuck Cancer Festival Website

Fuck Cancer Festival combines heavy metal music with a noble cause: raising funds for cancer research. This one-day event features a lineup of diverse metal bands and aims to foster a sense of community among attendees. The festival promotes awareness and support for those affected by cancer, making it a meaningful gathering for fans. Attendees can enjoy fantastic performances while contributing to an important cause, creating an uplifting and impactful experience.

8. Heidelberg Deathfest

Date: March 15, 2025
Duration: 1 day
Location: Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Genres: Hardcore (Metal), Metal
Expected Attendance: N/A
Ticket Price: €63.00
Tickets: Heidelberg Deathfest Website

Heidelberg Deathfest is a haven for fans of death metal and hardcore music, drawing enthusiasts from all over Europe. This festival features an intense lineup of both local and international bands, offering a day filled with powerful performances. The atmosphere is electric, with fans coming together to celebrate their love for heavy music. Taking place in the scenic city of Heidelberg, the festival combines great music with the charm of the local area, making it a must-attend event for metal fans.

9. Mammut-Festival

Date: April 4-5, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Bavaria, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: 500
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Available at the venue.

Mammut-Festival is dedicated to showcasing the diversity and strength of the metal scene, providing a platform for various genres within the community. This indoor festival promises a lineup filled with powerful performances and a passionate audience. With its focus on both emerging and established bands, Mammut-Festival is an exciting opportunity for fans to discover new music while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow metal enthusiasts.

10. Dark Easter Metal Meeting

Date: April 19-20, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Bavaria, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: Data not available
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Dark Easter Metal Meeting Website

The Dark Easter Metal Meeting is a unique festival that combines the spirit of metal with the joy of the Easter celebration. Held in a captivating indoor venue, it features a lineup of both established and emerging metal bands. Fans gather not only for the music but also for the festive atmosphere, making it a beloved tradition among metalheads.

11. Easter Cross Festival

Date: April 19-20, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Genres: Hardcore (Metal), Metal, Punk, Rock
Expected Attendance: 2,500
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Easter Cross Festival Website

This festival is known for its eclectic mix of genres, drawing in a diverse crowd. With a lineup that includes hardcore acts and punk influences, the Easter Cross Festival celebrates the rich tapestry of metal music. The event fosters a community vibe, encouraging fans to connect and enjoy the powerful performances together.

12. SWR Barroselas Metalfest

Date: April 23-26, 2025
Duration: 4 days
Location: Portugal
Genres: Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: Data not available
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: SWR Barroselas Metalfest Website

Located in the picturesque town of Barroselas, this festival has gained a reputation for its diverse lineup and welcoming atmosphere. Metal fans from across Europe flock to this event to experience a wide range of acts, from local talents to international headliners. The festival also promotes the spirit of community, often featuring unique activities and local cuisine.

13. Ragnarök Festival

Date: April 25-26, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Bavaria, Germany
Genres: Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: 4,000
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Ragnarök Festival Website

Ragnarök Festival is known for its atmospheric setting and heavy lineup, showcasing the best of both metal and rock. The festival offers a mix of established acts and up-and-coming bands, providing a platform for diverse sounds within the metal genre. It’s a celebration of music, culture, and camaraderie among fans.

14. MOSHnMAY Festival

Date: April 25-26, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Niedersachsen, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: 1,000
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: MOSHnMAY Festival Website

MOSHnMAY is a celebration of the heavy sounds that define the metal genre. The festival aims to create an immersive experience for attendees, featuring a lineup that emphasizes high-energy performances. With its intimate setting, it fosters a strong sense of community among fans and artists alike.

15. A Chance For Metal Festival

Date: May 2-3, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: 1,500
Ticket Price: €66.60
Tickets: A Chance For Metal Festival Website

This festival serves as a platform for metal bands that may not have the opportunity to perform at larger events. It’s dedicated to showcasing local talent while still inviting some well-known acts. Fans appreciate the festival for its dedication to the underground scene and its friendly atmosphere.

16. Rock In Rautheim

Date: May 9-10, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Niedersachsen, Germany
Genres: Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: Data not available
Ticket Price: €60.50
Tickets: Rock In Rautheim Website

Rock In Rautheim merges the best of rock and metal in a vibrant outdoor setting. Known for its supportive community, the festival attracts both dedicated fans and newcomers. Attendees enjoy a diverse range of performances, along with opportunities to discover new bands.

17. Kopffrei Open Air

Date: May 17, 2025
Duration: 1 day
Location: Thüringen, Germany
Genres: Deutschrock, Gothic, Metal, Medieval, Rock
Expected Attendance: Data not available
Ticket Price: €40.00
Tickets: Kopffrei Open Air Website

Kopffrei Open Air is a unique event that celebrates a variety of genres, from gothic to medieval influences. Its eclectic lineup and stunning outdoor setting provide a memorable experience for attendees. The festival aims to create an atmosphere where fans can fully immerse themselves in the music and the festivities.

18. Dark Troll Festival

Date: May 29-31, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
Genres: Metal, Medieval, Rock
Expected Attendance: 1,000
Ticket Price: €99.00
Tickets: Dark Troll Festival Website

Dark Troll Festival offers a unique blend of metal and medieval elements, attracting fans of both genres. The festival is known for its enchanting atmosphere, complete with thematic decorations and immersive performances. It’s a must-visit for those looking to experience something out of the ordinary.

19. Metal Power Open Air

Date: May 29-31, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Brandenburg, Germany
Genres: Hardcore (Metal), Metal
Expected Attendance: Data not available
Ticket Price: €85.00
Tickets: Metal Power Open Air Website

Metal Power Open Air focuses on the heavier side of the metal spectrum, showcasing hardcore bands alongside traditional metal acts. The festival aims to provide an intense musical experience in a lively atmosphere. Fans can expect powerful performances and a chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts.

20. Metal Frenzy Festival

Date: June 11-14, 2025
Duration: 4 days
Location: Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
Genres: Deutschrock, Gothic, Hardcore (Metal), Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: 3,000
Ticket Price: €89.00
Tickets: Metal Frenzy Festival Website

Metal Frenzy Festival is celebrated for its rich lineup that spans multiple genres. With a focus on both local and international acts, the festival creates a platform for diverse musical expressions. The vibrant atmosphere, paired with exciting activities, makes it a favorite among fans.

21. Protzen Open Air

Date: June 19-21, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Brandenburg, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: 1,000 – 1,500
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Protzen Open Air Website

The Protzen Open Air is a festival deeply rooted in the metal community. With its focus on both heavy and melodic acts, it offers fans a chance to enjoy a variety of performances in a scenic outdoor setting. The festival has a strong sense of community, making it a welcoming place for both newcomers and seasoned metalheads.

22. Mittsommernächte Bärenstein

Date: June 20-22, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Saxony, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: 750
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Mittsommernächte Bärenstein Website

Mittsommernächte Bärenstein combines metal with the enchanting atmosphere of midsummer celebrations. The festival features a diverse lineup of bands, creating a memorable experience for attendees. Fans appreciate the intimate setting, where they can enjoy high-quality performances up close.

23. Rock und Metal Day’z

Date: June 26-28, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
Genres: Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: 500
Ticket Price: €78.50
Tickets: Rock und Metal Day’z Website

Rock und Metal Day’z is known for its relaxed vibe and diverse lineup. It features a mix of established and emerging bands, giving attendees the chance to discover new music while enjoying classic hits.

24. Ferryman Festival Tübingen

Date: June 27-28, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: 700
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Ferryman Festival Tübingen Website

The Ferryman Festival in Tübingen is a rising star in the metal festival scene, known for its intimate atmosphere and carefully curated lineup. It features a mix of both local and touring bands, offering fans a chance to experience raw, energetic performances. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Tübingen, this festival is ideal for those seeking a close-knit community vibe.

25. Rockharz Festival

Date: July 2-5, 2025
Duration: 4 days
Location: Saxony-Anhalt, Germany
Genres: Deutschrock, Folk, Gothic, Metal, Punk, Rock
Expected Attendance: 17,000
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Rockharz Festival Website

One of the largest and most well-known metal festivals in Germany, Rockharz Festival attracts a diverse lineup of bands across various genres. Held in the beautiful Harz Mountains, the festival features multiple stages and a vibrant atmosphere. With thousands of attendees, it’s a hub for metal enthusiasts, offering everything from heavy metal to folk rock, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

26. Ieperfest

Date: July 4-6, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Belgium
Genres: Hardcore (Metal)
Expected Attendance: 10,000
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Ieperfest Website

Ieperfest is a hardcore-focused festival known for its strong community spirit and inclusive atmosphere. It takes place in the historical town of Ypres, Belgium, adding a unique cultural element to the heavy music scene. With a mix of international acts and local talent, attendees can expect powerful performances and a passionate crowd that shares a love for hardcore music.

27. Wolfweez Open Air Festival

Date: July 4-5, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Genres: Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: Data not available
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Wolfweez Open Air Website

Wolfweez Open Air Festival is celebrated for its blend of metal and rock in a scenic outdoor environment. With a focus on high-energy performances, the festival attracts a dedicated crowd that enjoys both well-known bands and hidden gems. It fosters a lively atmosphere where fans can connect over their shared passion for music.

28. Heavy Mölltol Festival

Date: July 4-5, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Austria
Genres: Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: 500
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Heavy Mölltol Festival Website

Heavy Mölltol Festival brings together metal enthusiasts in a beautiful Austrian setting. With a focus on both established acts and upcoming talent, the festival offers a platform for diverse sounds within the metal genre. The intimate atmosphere allows for close interactions between bands and fans, creating memorable experiences.

29. In Flammen Open Air

Date: July 10-12, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Saxony, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: 1,500
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: In Flammen Open Air Website

In Flammen Open Air is known for its intense lineup of metal bands and an atmosphere filled with passion. The festival emphasizes heavy music and provides a platform for bands to showcase their talent. With a strong sense of community, fans can expect engaging performances and an opportunity to connect with fellow metal lovers.

30. AREA 53 Festival

Date: July 10-12, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Austria
Genres: Metal, Medieval
Expected Attendance: Data not available
Ticket Price: €125.00
Tickets: AREA 53 Festival Website

AREA 53 Festival stands out with its unique theme that combines metal with medieval elements. The festival offers a distinct experience, featuring a lineup that explores the darker, more atmospheric side of metal. Fans can immerse themselves in a world where music, history, and fantasy collide.

31. Dong Open Air

Date: July 10-12, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: 20,000
Ticket Price: €0.00
Tickets: Dong Open Air Website

Dong Open Air is a massive festival known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse lineup. The event is unique not just for its music but also for its affordability, as it’s free for attendees. With a focus on community and friendship, the festival creates an environment where fans can enjoy great performances and connect with each other.

32. Pure Fucking Metal FestEvil

Date: July 11-12, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Bavaria, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: 150
Ticket Price: €62.00
Tickets: Pure Fucking Metal FestEvil Website

Pure Fucking Metal FestEvil is a festival dedicated to fans who crave heavy and uncompromising music. The event embraces the spirit of metal, showcasing bands that deliver powerful performances. The intimate setting allows fans to truly connect with the music and each other, making it a beloved gathering for metal aficionados.

33. Baden in Blut Open Air

Date: July 18-19, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Genres: Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: Data not available
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Baden in Blut Open Air Website

Baden in Blut Open Air is a vibrant festival that celebrates both metal and rock in an electrifying environment. Known for its diverse lineup and lively atmosphere, it attracts fans eager to enjoy great music and connect with fellow enthusiasts. The festival encourages a sense of community, making it a must-visit for rock and metal lovers.

34. Wacken Open Air

Date: July 30 – August 2, 2025
Duration: 4 days
Location: Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
Genres: Comedy, Deutschrock, Folk, Gothic, Hardcore (Metal), Metal, Punk, Rock, Volksmusik
Expected Attendance: 85,000 – 90,000
Ticket Price: €333.00
Tickets: Wacken Open Air Website

Wacken Open Air is the epitome of metal festivals, attracting tens of thousands of fans from around the globe. This legendary festival features an impressive lineup of iconic bands and a wide array of activities beyond music, including comedy and cultural performances. With its massive scale and vibrant atmosphere, Wacken is a pilgrimage site for metal fans.

35. Full Rewind Festival

Date: July 31 – August 2, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Saxony, Germany
Genres: Hardcore (Metal), Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: Data not available
Ticket Price: €130.00
Tickets: Full Rewind Festival Website

Full Rewind Festival is an emerging event that focuses on hardcore and metal music. With its energetic atmosphere and diverse lineup, it’s a place where fans can revel in powerful performances. The festival emphasizes connection, providing opportunities for fans to engage with both bands and each other in a spirited setting.

36. Kaltenbach Open Air

Date: August 21-23, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Austria
Genres: Folk, Metal, Rock
Expected Attendance: Data not available
Ticket Price: €130.00
Tickets: Kaltenbach Open Air Website

Kaltenbach Open Air combines the elements of folk, rock, and metal in a picturesque alpine setting. The festival is known for its friendly vibe and diverse lineup, offering something for everyone. Fans can enjoy stunning views while immersing themselves in a wide array of performances, creating unforgettable memories.

37. Wolfszeit Festival

Date: August 21-23, 2025
Duration: 3 days
Location: Thüringen, Germany
Genres: Folk, Metal, Medieval
Expected Attendance: Data not available
Ticket Price: €129.80
Tickets: Wolfszeit Festival Website

Wolfszeit Festival offers a unique blend of metal and medieval folk influences, creating an enchanting atmosphere for attendees. With its focus on themes of nature and mythology, the festival features a lineup of bands that reflect these elements. Fans can expect a captivating experience with immersive performances and a strong sense of community.

38. Mammut-Festival

Date: October 24-25, 2025
Duration: 2 days
Location: Bavaria, Germany
Genres: Metal
Expected Attendance: 500
Ticket Price: Not available (n.v.)
Tickets: Mammut-Festival Website

Mammut-Festival is a smaller, yet highly energetic event that showcases a variety of metal bands. Known for its friendly and inclusive atmosphere, the festival brings together both local talents and established acts. The intimate setting allows fans to enjoy close interactions with the bands, making it a cherished event for those who attend.

These festivals represent the vibrant and diverse metal scene in Europe, each offering unique experiences for fans. Be sure to check out their websites for the latest updates and ticket information!

Image credit: Bárbara Oliveira