(Photo Credit: WOA Festival GmbH / Pep Bonet Masterclass) Wacken, July 29 2026: The warm-up shows of the previous days have already set the tone for the most important and wonderful week of the metal year. Following the traditional Wacken Firefighters concert, a performance by Skyline and a DJ set at the Camping Plaza by festival founder Holger Hübner, he shared his excitement: “Everything has gone according to plan during arrivals so far. The atmosphere is absolutely outstanding. We’re excited for an incredible anniversary festival week!”Thomas Jensen added: “That was a truly successful opening party with the entire Wacken family. And it’s always great to see so many happy, vibrant faces and spot quite a few familiar ones, too.” But that was, of course, only the beginning. In the coming days, Thomas, Holger and the guests of Wacken can look forward to performances by true legends and outstanding newcomers. In total, more than 200 acts from all corners of the world and every subgenre of metal will take to the ten stages. Alongside sets by Judas Priest, Sabaton, Def Leppard, Powerwolf, Savatage, Lamb of God, In Flames and Arch Enemy, Brazilian thrash metal band Sepultura and heavy metal heroes Running Wild are also on the bill. Both will celebrate their farewells from the stage with their gigs at Wacken. | 
