Event Details
Welcome to Wacken Open Air 2026
From Wednesday, 29 July to Saturday, 1 August 2026, the small village of Wacken in Schleswig-Holstein once again becomes the unofficial capital of heavy metal. Around 85,000 visitors from around the world will join the 35th anniversary edition of W:O:A. Multiple stages will host acts including Judas Priest, In Flames, Black Label Society, Arch Enemy, Sabaton, Powerwolf, Saxon and Def Leppard.
Highlights
- 35th anniversary edition of the world's largest heavy metal festival
- Over 100 confirmed bands across multiple stages (Faster, Harder, Louder, Headbangers Stage, W:E:T Stage, Wackinger Stage, Wasteland Stage)
- 2026 headliners include Judas Priest, In Flames, Sabaton, Powerwolf and Def Leppard
- Legendary Wacken Village with Wackinger Stage and Farmers Market
- Free shuttle bus from Itzehoe train station
- Wide range of camping options, from classic tent sites to the Moshtel
Program
The festival grounds are open across all four days, from 29 July to 1 August 2026. Camping opens as early as 26 July, with teardown running through 2 August. Between 29 and 47 bands perform daily across the various stages, with the busiest lineup on Friday. The genre range spans classic heavy metal, metalcore, folk metal and black metal acts.
Tickets
2026 festival tickets start at €351 in the "Louder" category and include access to the entire festival grounds from 29 July to 1 August, camping from 26 July to 2 August, access to all stages, and the free shuttle bus from Itzehoe train station. The festival traditionally sells out months in advance, so early booking is strongly recommended.
Travel & Camping
- By car via the A23 motorway, with signposted parking areas right next to the grounds.
- Free shuttle bus connects Itzehoe train station with the festival site.
- Classic camping is available on the Holy Ground, alongside comfort options such as Residenz Evil or the Moshtel with containers and log cabins.
- An Access Pass is required for arrival by car or camper (sales started 24 April 2026).
Visitor Tips
- Book tickets as early as possible, as the festival regularly sells out months in advance.
- Pack weatherproof clothing and rubber boots, as northern German summer weather is unpredictable.
- Don't forget ear protection.
- Set up cashless payment in advance, as most on site transactions are card or wristband based.
- Lockers (SafeBOXen) are available on site for valuables.
