Metalheads, mark your calendars! From June 6th to 8th, Nancy’s iconic Open Air venue will once again roar with distortion, guttural screams, and soaring solos as Heavy Weekend returns for its second edition. Following a successful debut, the festival is back with an incredible lineup that will satisfy fans of every metal subgenre, from power metal to nu-metal, with some progressive brilliance in between.
Kicking off this phenomenal three-day of mayhem, the first headliner is none other than the epic German kings of power metal: Powerwolf. Get ready to be ‘Sanctified with Dynamite’ in a theatrical show like nothing you’ve seen before. They’ll no doubt transform the Open Air grounds into a cathedral of metal. Make sure to arrive early, because you won’t want to miss other killer acts sharing the stage that day, including Vandenberg, the fierce energy of Battle Beast, and British heavy metal legends Saxon.
On day two, progressive metal pioneers Dream Theater join Powerwolf at the top of the bill. Prepare to be hypnotized by their jaw-dropping technical skills and intricate compositions that have cemented their legendary status in the metal world. You’ll also have the chance to sing the iconic anthem ‘The Final Countdown’ with Europe, and witness a powerful performance from the German progressive veterans Vanden Plas. Kicking off the day, rising American heavy metal act Wings of Steel will bring raw energy and classic vibes to get the mosh pits started early.
Sunday promises a spectacular and brutal finale. Flying the French flag high, heavyweights Mass Hysteria will deliver their politically-charged lyrics and electrifying live show, fusing industrial aggression with raw intensity. Meanwhile, Rise of the Northstar, with their unique blend of hardcore and Japanese pop culture influences, will deliver a furious sonic and visual assault you won’t forget.
And saving the most explosive act for last: Slipknot. The masked titans and icons of nu-metal will close Heavy Weekend with a set that promises chaos, catharsis, and pure adrenaline. Known for their insane live energy, Slipknot’s appearance is a major triumph for the festival and a guaranteed spectacle. Whether you’re a lifelong maggot or just discovering their power, expect an all-out barrage of hits like ‘Duality’, ‘Before I Forget’, and ‘Psychosocial’.
Whether you’re a longtime metalhead or new to the scene, Heavy Weekend is shaping up to be an essential stop on the 2025 festival circuit. With its perfect mix of legendary acts, fresh talent, and local pride, it’s more than just a festival, it’s a chance to discover new bands and see some metal legends. Get ready for the noise, the sweat, and the unity. This June, Nancy will be heavy again.
To get the full experience, download the official festival app, where you’ll find the full timetable, travel info, site map, and more. And don’t forget to grab some merch! If you want to skip the line and get your t-shirt before anyone else, check out the online shop!
Written by: Méline Fritz
Edited by: Laura Finkler
