June 27-30
In the last days of June, the small French town of Clisson transforms into a true Mecca for heavy music fans. Here, the grand open-air festival Hellfest is held annually, and in 2024 it will take place from June 27 to 30. This iconic event brings together the best bands from the worlds of metal, rock, punk, and other heavy music genres. In 2024, the headliners of Hellfest will be the legendary Metallica, Avenged Sevenfold, The Prodigy, and Machine Head.
From Humble Beginnings to Loud Fame
Hellfest originated in 2002 as a modest one-day festival, but its popularity grew rapidly over the years. After forced breaks in 2020-2021 due to the pandemic, Hellfest triumphantly returned in 2022 with a two-weekend format, bringing top metal and hard rock bands. In 2023, it expanded to a 4-day format with more than 200 bands on 6 stages. Today, it is one of the largest metal events in Europe, annually attracting tens of thousands of fans from all over the world. The organizers carefully select the lineup, aiming to please fans of various heavy music genres.
A Program for Every Taste
Besides the headliners, Hellfest 2024 will feature dozens of other renowned bands: Fear Factory, Saxon, Enter Shikari, Corey Taylor, Tom Morello, Body Count, and many others. Also expected are Mr. Bungle, Accept, Sodom, Cradle of Filth, Emperor, and other cult bands. Fans will hear virtually all shades of heavy sound - from traditional metal and thrash to brutal deathcore, experimental industrial, and alternative. Hundreds of bands, including seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, will perform on several stages over four days.
Clisson - The Temporary Capital of Heavy Music
The epicenter of festival life during these days will be the small town of Clisson in the historical region of Brittany in western France. Two large Main Stage areas with multiple stages will be set up in the picturesque Loire Valleys. In addition to the music program, the heart of the festival at Hell City Square will offer entertainment zones, galleries, a huge metal market, and much more.
Route to the Gates of Heavy Heaven
Getting to Clisson is easiest by car or bus. Direct bus services run from Paris and other major cities. Parking and camping areas are available on the festival grounds ($13 per day). The nearest train stations are in Nantes and Angers, from where you will need to take a taxi or public transport to Clisson. The nearest international airport is in Nantes (45 km).
Practical Tips for Tourists
To fully enjoy Hellfest, it is recommended to book accommodation in advance. In Clisson itself, the only budget option is camping in the festival area. Nearby towns offer hotels and apartments to suit all tastes and budgets. Hellfest, which gathered 180,000 people in 2019, usually features a lineup with 90% foreign artists and 20% foreign visitors. So don't forget to stock up on appropriate clothing, gear, food, and drinks—all of which will be available on site. Unforgettable experiences, powerful energy, unrestrained drive, and brutal sound await you!