Milwaukee Metal Festival 2026: A Heavy Lineup and Unforgettable Experience
The Milwaukee Metal Festival (MMF) is set to make waves in the heavy music scene once again as it announces a thrilling new wave of bands for its 2026 edition. Taking place from June 5 to June 7, 2026, at The Rave/Eagles Club in Milwaukee, WI, the festival promises to be one of North America’s most diverse and heavy metal experiences. Kicking off with a pre-party on June 4, the festival is gearing up to attract fans from all corners of the metal community.
Headliners and Major Additions
With already confirmed headliners such as Acid Bath, Killswitch Engage, and Ministry, the festival’s latest announcements further enhance its lineup. One of the standout additions is John Bush, who will perform an exclusive set featuring Anthrax-era material, along with a special appearance with Armored Saint. Bush is slated to perform on Saturday, June 6, with Armored Saint, and will return on Sunday, June 7, to deliver an unforgettable set focused on his iconic years fronting Anthrax.
Festival co-organizer Jamey Jasta expressed his excitement, stating, “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome a true pioneer in the genre & one of the best voices in metal. The one & only John Bush! Catch him Saturday, June 6 with Armored Saint & again Sunday, June 7, performing his Anthrax era songs. These are must-see sets at MMF 2026!”
Latest Wave of Additions
In addition to John Bush and Armored Saint, the latest lineup reveals a variety of acts spanning thrash, hardcore, death metal, doom, and extreme underground sounds. The newly announced bands include:
- Waking The Cadaver
- 9 Dead
- Cardiac Arrest
- The Suffering
- Gored Embrace
- Lecherous Nocturne
- Weekend Nachos
- Castrator
- Visceral Disgorge
- DIRT
- The Crosses performing Die Kreuzen
Merchandise and Pre-Party Events
The festival will also feature a dedicated merch and collectibles floor, showcasing exclusive band merchandise, vinyl, rare items, and more. The Metal Fest Pre-Party begins on Thursday, June 4, hosted by Jamey Jasta and friends, with special guests yet to be announced. Pre-party tickets are complimentary with the purchase of a three-day pass.
Full Lineup Overview
Friday, June 5
- Acid Bath
- Obituary
- Agalloch (Retrospective Set)
- Iron Reagan
- Pallbearer
- Hirax
- NunSlaughter
- Master
- Weekend Nachos
- Morta Skuld
- Polkadot Cadaver
- Dusk
- Jeffrey Nothing
- Cardiac Arrest
- Thanatotic Desire
- Eyes of the Living
- Misery
- DIRT
Saturday, June 6
- Killswitch Engage
- Suicidal Tendencies
- Power Trip
- Agalloch (Ashes Against the Grain Set)
- After the Burial
- NAILS
- Armored Saint
- Havok
- Prong
- Weekend Nachos
- Internal Bleeding
- Macabre
- Belushi Speed Ball
- Sworn Enemy
- Castrator
- Casket Robbery
- Human Artifacts
- Brick by Brick
- Threnody
- The Suffering
- Striking 13
Sunday, June 7
- Ministry
- All Shall Perish
- Integrity
- UADA
- Cyco Miko
- Waking the Cadaver
- Deadguy
- Visceral Disgorge
- Incite
- 9 Dead
- Gored Embrace
- Lecherous Nocturne
- The Crosses performing Die Kreuzen
- Dead by Wednesday
- Texas Toast Chainsaw Massacre
- Trip to the Morgue
- Dark Horse Prophet
Conclusion
The Milwaukee Metal Festival 2026 is shaping up to be a monumental event for metal fans, showcasing an impressive lineup that spans various sub-genres and includes iconic performances. With a mix of established legends and underground acts, the festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for attendees. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets now and prepare for a weekend filled with heavy music, camaraderie, and celebration of the metal community.
FAQs
When does the Milwaukee Metal Festival 2026 take place?
The festival runs from June 5 to June 7, 2026, with a pre-party on June 4.
Where is the festival being held?
The festival will take place at The Rave/Eagles Club in Milwaukee, WI.
How can I get tickets for the festival?
Tickets are available for purchase online, and pre-party tickets are free with the purchase of a three-day pass.
Who are the confirmed headliners for the festival?
Confirmed headliners include Acid Bath, Killswitch Engage, and Ministry, along with special performances by John Bush and Armored Saint.
Will there be merchandise available at the festival?
Yes, there will be a dedicated merch and collectibles floor featuring exclusive band merchandise, vinyl, and rare items.
