Milwaukee Metal Fest (MMF) is making its triumphant return in 2025, following the enormous success of its second edition. This iconic midwestern metal festival is gearing up for an even bigger and better event, promising a lineup packed with legendary acts and rising stars in the metal scene. Mark your calendars for May 16-18, 2025, when the metal madness will once again take over The Rave/Eagles Ballroom in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. With the excitement kicking off a day earlier on May 15 with a special pre-party, this is set to be one of the most unforgettable weekends for metalheads everywhere.
An All-Star Lineup for 2025
The 2025 edition of Milwaukee Metal Fest will feature an impressive lineup that is sure to satisfy every fan of heavy music. Down, featuring iconic members Phil Anselmo, Kirk Windstein, Pepper Keenan, Jimmy Bower, and Pat Bruders, is headlining the festival. With their rare performances in the Midwest, this set will be a special treat for fans of sludgy, southern metal.
Additionally, The Dillinger Escape Plan will perform their legendary album ‘Calculating Infinity’ in its entirety, marking their first show in Milwaukee in nearly 15 years. The 2025 lineup will also feature Bay Area thrash legends Exodus, who are celebrating their 40th anniversary. Exodus was the most requested band by fans, and their return promises to deliver the unrelenting thrash metal energy they’re known for. The lineup continues with 3 Inches of Blood, returning for select performances after a long hiatus, and the fact that they chose to play MMF is a testament to how special this festival is becoming on the global metal scene.
First Wave of Bands Announced
In addition to the heavy hitters already mentioned, the first wave of confirmed bands for MMF 2025 includes an array of talent across various subgenres of metal. Fans can look forward to performances from:
- Destruction – German thrash titans
- Wolves in the Throne Room – Atmospheric black metal pioneers
- Trouble – Doom metal legends
- The Acacia Strain – Pioneers of hardcore-infused deathcore
- Harms Way, Fugitive, Speed, and many more.
The list of confirmed acts also includes Nekrogoblikon, known for their blend of melodic death metal and humor, as well as Full of Hell, Exhorder, and END. Each of these bands represents the best of both the old guard and new wave of heavy music, ensuring that every corner of the metal spectrum is represented. And this is just the first wave of bands, with many more to be announced soon!
A Statement from Co-Organizer Jamey Jasta
One of the driving forces behind Milwaukee Metal Fest’s resurgence is Jamey Jasta, frontman of the hardcore-metal band Hatebreed and co-organizer of the festival. He expressed his excitement for the upcoming event, stating, “Milwaukee Metal Fest is back for year #3, and we’re looking forward to an even bigger and better event in 2025!” Jasta went on to emphasize the unique and diverse lineup, highlighting that Down rarely plays in the Midwest, making their set a special occasion. He also mentioned the excitement around Exodus, noting their 40th anniversary celebration, and how the band was the most requested act for MMF by fans.
Jasta also emphasized how incredible it is to have The Dillinger Escape Plan perform ‘Calculating Infinity’, as well as the return of 3 Inches of Blood, who will only be playing a few select shows. With the addition of rising stars like Speed and Fugitive, along with festival alumni such as Trouble, Exhorder, and Deceased, Jasta promised that Milwaukee Metal Fest 2025 is guaranteed to be a “rager.”
The Venue: The Rave/Eagles Ballroom
The festival will once again be held at The Rave/Eagles Ballroom, a historic and iconic venue in Milwaukee. Known for hosting large-scale events and concerts, the Eagles Ballroom provides the perfect setting for a metal festival of this magnitude. With its multi-level layout, stunning acoustics, and legendary status in the Midwest music scene, fans can expect an incredible live experience. The venue’s indoor and outdoor spaces offer ample room for fans to headbang, mosh, and enjoy the festival atmosphere.
Secure Your Tickets Now
As excitement builds for Milwaukee Metal Fest 2025, it’s crucial to secure your tickets early. With a lineup this strong and more bands still to be announced, tickets are likely to sell out fast. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of classic thrash, black metal, hardcore, or doom, this festival has something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to witness history being made in Milwaukee this May.
The return of Milwaukee Metal Fest in 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most significant events in the metal community. From legendary bands like Down, Exodus, and The Dillinger Escape Plan, to rising stars and underground acts, the diversity and quality of the lineup ensure an unforgettable experience for all who attend. If you’re a metalhead looking for the ultimate festival experience, Milwaukee Metal Fest 2025 is a can’t-miss event. Mark your calendars for May 16-18, 2025, grab your tickets, and get ready for three days of unrelenting, face-melting metal!