The Metalitalia Festival 2025 is set to deliver an electrifying showcase of heavy metal talent on September 27 and 28 at the Live Music Club in Trezzo sull’Adda, Milan (Italy). Known for its commitment to celebrating both international legends and emerging acts, this year’s edition promises a meticulously curated lineup featuring over 20 bands across two days. The festival will bring together fans from across Europe for a weekend dedicated to the full spectrum of metal subgenres, from melodic death to progressive symphonic sounds.
Day One: Melodic Death and Folk Metal Take Center Stage
Saturday, September 27, kicks off with Swedish pioneers Dark Tranquillity headlining the event. As one of the forefathers of melodic death metal, the band’s intricate compositions and haunting melodies have influenced countless artists within the genre. Their performance is expected to draw massive crowds eager to experience classics like The Gallery alongside tracks from their latest releases.
Joining them are Finnish power metallers Equilibrium, whose blend of folk influences and aggressive riffs has cemented their reputation as innovators in modern metal. Also on the bill are Danish prog-metal sensations Iotunn, whose dynamic approach fuses elegant progressiveness with robust melodic death elements. Fans can expect an intense live rendition of their critically acclaimed album Access All Worlds.
Rounding out the day are standout performances by Kanonenfieber, known for their atmospheric black metal storytelling; Italian doom metallers Messa, whose ethereal soundscapes captivate audiences worldwide; and Bedsore, who bring a fresh take on progressive death metal with technical precision and raw energy. These acts underscore the festival’s dedication to spotlighting diverse yet cohesive musical styles.
Day Two: Power Metal Legends Dominate
Sunday, September 28, shifts gears with a focus on power and symphonic metal, led by Finnish icons Stratovarius. With decades of dominance in the scene, Stratovarius remains synonymous with soaring vocals, blistering solos, and anthemic choruses. Tracks such as Forever and Hunting High and Low are surefire highlights that will resonate through the venue.
Sharing the stage are fantasy-themed power metallers Twilight Force, whose larger-than-life theatrics and epic storytelling transport audiences to mythical realms. Meanwhile, Vision Divine, fronted by Michele Luppi, makes a special appearance, marking their only Italian show of the year. This exclusive performance adds significant value for longtime fans of the group.
Other notable acts include Elvenking, stalwarts of folk/power metal whose energetic performances never fail to ignite mosh pits, and Ancient Bards, revered for their cinematic symphonic arrangements. Closing the evening is Skeletoon, whose playful yet powerful approach to power metal continues to win hearts globally. Each act contributes to a day filled with bombastic riffs, operatic vocals, and unforgettable hooks.
Additional Features Enhance the Experience
Beyond the music, the Metalitalia Festival offers attendees unique opportunities to engage with the global metal community. Free meet-and-greet sessions with all performing artists provide rare access to personal interactions, while the bustling Metal Market allows fans to browse merchandise, vinyl records, and limited-edition collectibles.
For those passionate about body art, the Metalitalia Ink tattoo convention returns, offering live tattoo demonstrations and workshops hosted by renowned artists. Attendees can also participate in panel discussions exploring topics ranging from underground label operations to the evolution of extreme metal subgenres.
Ticket Information and Logistics
Tickets for the Metalitalia Festival 2025 went on sale March 10 via authorized platforms including Vivaticket, Ticketone, and Mailticket. Single-day passes start at €49 (plus fees), while a two-day pass—including entry to the Warm-Up Party on Friday, September 26—costs €79. Door prices increase slightly, making advance purchase advisable for budget-conscious attendees. Gates open at 1 p.m., with performances beginning promptly at 2 p.m. each day.
The Warm-Up Party at Bloom in Mezzago sets the tone for the weekend, though details remain under wraps until closer to the date. Organizers encourage early arrivals to avoid congestion and ensure smooth entry into the venue.
A Platform for Emerging Talent
While headliners dominate the spotlight, the festival maintains its tradition of supporting up-and-coming acts. Bands announced later in the season often represent hidden gems within niche subgenres, providing a platform for discovery and growth. This balance between established giants and rising stars ensures that every attendee finds something to connect with over the course of the weekend.
Why Metalitalia Festival Matters
What sets the Metalitalia Festival apart is its unwavering commitment to authenticity and inclusivity. By fostering a space where subgenres coexist harmoniously, it reflects the true spirit of the global metal community. Whether you’re drawn to the melancholic strains of Dark Tranquillity or the bombastic orchestration of Twilight Force, the festival delivers an immersive experience designed to unite fans through shared passion and sonic intensity.
For more information, visit www.metalitalia-festival.com .
A celebration of metal’s diversity—from melodic death to symphonic grandeur.