Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival: Where Rock Legends Unite in Columbus
Columbus, Ohio transforms into the ultimate rock and metal destination every May when the Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival takes over Historic Crew Stadium. This four-day celebration of heavy music and culture has established itself as one of America’s premier rock festivals, drawing massive crowds and legendary performers for an unforgettable experience.
A Festival Born from Rock Heritage
Sonic Temple emerged in 2019, replacing the previously annual Rock on the Range festival at the same Columbus venue. The inaugural event immediately made its mark with sold-out crowds of approximately 120,000 attendees. After a pandemic-induced hiatus, the festival returned stronger than ever in 2023 and has continued to grow annually, cementing its reputation as what organizers call “the Pinnacle of Rock Festivals in America.”
Stellar 2025 Lineup and Historic Performances
The 2025 festival, running May 8-11, features an incredible lineup including METALLICA, LINKIN PARK, Korn, Bad Omens, Incubus, Alice In Chains, Rob Zombie, Three Days Grace, Alice Cooper, and I Prevail. This year marks several significant milestones, including Metallica’s first-ever appearance at Sonic Temple, where they’ll headline both Friday and Sunday nights.
The festival showcases remarkable reunion performances and anniversary celebrations. Three Days Grace reunites with original vocalist Adam Gontier, while GWAR celebrates their 40th anniversary. Additional highlights include rare appearances from bands like Crossfade, performing for the first time in 13 years, and special anniversary sets from Bullet For My Valentine and Trivium.
More Than Music: Art and Culture Integration
True to its name, Sonic Temple extends beyond musical performances to embrace visual arts and cultural experiences. The festival features an expanded live art program, with artists like Terry Urban creating limited-edition merchandise and various creators contributing to the immersive atmosphere. This artistic element distinguishes Sonic Temple from traditional music festivals, creating a multi-sensory experience that celebrates creativity in all forms.
Unique Experiences and Amenities
Festival-goers can enjoy specialized experiences including the BLACKENED Whiskey Bar and BLACKENED Burger Bar, featuring collaborations between BLACKENED Whiskey, celebrity chef Chris Santos, and Metallica. The popular Dive Bar returns as a favorite gathering spot, while various VIP experiences and reserved seating options cater to different preferences and comfort levels.
The festival offers multiple pass types, from general admission field access to premium Columbus Owner’s Club packages, ensuring accessibility for various budgets and preferences.
Looking Ahead: Continued Growth
The festival continues expanding, with 2026 dates already announced for May 14-17, featuring an expansion to five stages that will accommodate over 30 additional bands. This growth reflects the festival’s increasing popularity and commitment to providing comprehensive rock and metal experiences.
A Destination Event
Produced by Danny Wimmer Presents, one of America’s largest independent destination music festival producers, Sonic Temple has become more than just a concert—it’s a pilgrimage for rock and metal fans. The Historic Crew Stadium location provides an ideal setting that combines intimate venue atmosphere with the capacity to host massive crowds.
For rock enthusiasts seeking an authentic, high-energy festival experience that celebrates both musical heritage and contemporary innovation, Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival represents the gold standard of American rock festivals.
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