Hellfest Music Festival – France’s Premier Celebration of Rock and Metal

Hellfest

Hellfest is one of Europe’s largest and most renowned music festivals dedicated to heavy metal, hard rock, and punk. Held annually in Clisson, a small town in western France, Hellfest has grown from a niche event into a major international gathering for fans of loud, aggressive, and alternative music. Typically taking place over a long weekend in June, the festival draws crowds of over 180,000 people from around the world.

Founded in 2006, Hellfest evolved from earlier underground festivals like Furyfest, gradually gaining momentum with increasingly ambitious lineups. Today, it boasts an impressive array of bands across multiple subgenres of rock and metal — from black and death metal to stoner rock, hardcore, and industrial. Headliners in past years have included legends such as Iron Maiden, Metallica, Slipknot, Rammstein, and Judas Priest. The festival features six themed stages, offering a wide range of performances from iconic acts to up-and-coming underground bands.

Hellfest

Beyond the music, Hellfest is known for its striking visuals and immersive environment. The site is transformed into a dystopian, metal-themed village complete with fire-spewing sculptures, gothic architecture, and dramatic stage designs. Attendees embrace the experience with passionate enthusiasm, many wearing band merch, face paint, or elaborate costumes. With its unique blend of community, chaos, and culture, Hellfest stands out as a must-visit for metalheads and alternative music lovers alike, embodying the spirit of rebellion and raw musical energy.