Helheim Open Air

From Birthday to Festival

Sometimes a festival grows out of a private party. This is exactly how the story of Helheim Open Air began: in 2023, the symphonic metal band Hel's Throne organized a celebration — and quickly realized that there was a lack of a festival for young and up-and-coming rock and metal acts in the three-country corner of Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Brandenburg. Thus, the association Helheim e.V. was founded, a volunteer team of musicians and helpers, and the Helheim Open Air was established. The event has been growing continuously ever since.

Where Metal Gets a Voice

The festival takes place on the Sportplatz Battin, a district of Jessen (Elster) in the Wittenberg district (AGS 15091, state of Saxony-Anhalt), Germany. Two stages, a manageable area, camping included from Thursday (July 23rd) to Sunday (July 26th). Genres: Symphonic Metal, Melodic Metal, Folk Metal, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal. Bands from all over Germany, many newcomers, plus established headliners. The organization sees itself as sustainable: the festival aims to promote regional music culture and offer a relevant live platform for up-and-coming bands.

The Fourth Edition in 2026

The fourth edition is scheduled for July 24th to 25th, 2026. As of Spring 2026, the bands Hel's Throne, Feuerwulf, and Blindgänger are announced as acts; the complete lineup will be revealed gradually on helheim-openair.de and via the Facebook page. Tickets from €62.50. Helheim Open Air is one of the few metal festivals in Saxony-Anhalt — an important contribution to the subculture of a state that is more than just Bauhaus and Luther.