Metalheads are drawing to Oslo in huge numbers for 'Tons of Rock'
2014 marks the start of "Tons of Rock" in Oslo, a new festival for Heavy-Metal fans. Bands like Iron Maiden, Guns N' Roses and Metallica have graced its stages. Those planning to attend in 2025 should start planning their trips.
Despite numerous festivals facing the risk of sinking in the mud, the organizers of the Norwegian "Tons of Rock" enjoyed real luck with the weather at the end of June. With an average temperature of 25 degrees in the shade, numerous national and international bands and artists presented themselves on four stages over four days. It's almost a shame that - aside from Doro Pesch - there were hardly any women to be found, which is not unusual for this genre but still a bit sad.
The Metalfestival, which started in 2014, enjoys increasing popularity year after year, which did not subside even during the two-year Corona pause. On the contrary. The site in the higher located district of Ekeberg, with a view of the Norwegian capital's center, now accommodates a total of approximately 80,000 visitors. It all started much smaller on the fortress Fredriksten in the nearby Halden.
From Metallica to Judas Priest
Most visitors come from Scandinavia, but more and more fans travel from distant countries. Reasons for this could be the reasonably priced flights, as well as the high-quality line-up that caters to all age groups. Old-school metalheads came to see Judas Priest, Uriah Heep, Saxon, Europe and ZZ Top this year, while the younger generation were excited about Turnstile and Greta van Fleet. And with Metallica, Tool, Kreator and Parkway Drive, one couldn't go wrong.
The guest list of "Tons of Rock" reads like a Who's Who of Heavy Metal. Volbeat, Anthrax and Slayer were already there at the start in 2014, followed by acts like Black Sabbath, Kiss, Def Leppard, Twisted Sister, Alice Cooper, Megadeth, Ozzy Osbourne, Alice in Chains, Deep Purple, Korn, Guns N' Roses, Iggy Pop and many more legends in the following years. Bands from the North, where the Metal genre originated, are always present.
High-Profile Visitors from Wacken
Not only did Wacken founder Thomas Jensen stop by for a casual visit and to shoot some pictures for a documentary about himself in Oslo, but Metallica frontman James Hetfield also spent two days at the site with his friend Eicca Toppinen of Apocalyptica, who lives in Oslo, to watch the American hardcore gods Turnstile live. Rob Halford, lead singer of Judas Priest, also couldn't resist the energetic show before taking the stage himself.
What sets the "Tons of Rock" festival apart from its great location is its proximity to Oslo and the resulting opportunity to explore the city in the mornings. Although Norway is known to be the most expensive country in Europe, with an average cost being 30% higher than in Germany, looking is supposedly free. 180 Norwegian crowns, or approximately 15.50 Euros, for the Munch Museum should be factored in, however.
Sightseeing in Oslo
Despite Norway being known as the most expensive country in Europe, with an average cost being 30% higher than in Germany, sightseeing is supposedly free. 180 Norwegian crowns, or approximately 15.50 Euros, for the Munch Museum should be factored in, however.
Edward Munch, particularly for his - in comparison to many of his numerous works, incidentally rather disappointing in terms of "The Scream" - painting, was an inspiration for "Tons Of Rock". The three stages "Vampire Stage", "Moonlight Stage" and of course "Scream Stage" are named after his works. For a visit to the museum located in the waterfront neighborhood of Bjørvika, one should plan sufficient time, as there is a lot to see. The unaltered view from the upper floors onto the city is worth the entrance fee alone. Munch's dark creative periods may also inspire many metal fans. In addition, a detour to the hip neighborhood of Grünerløkka is worthwhile, which stands out with cafes, restaurants and small shops, as well as its direct location on the Akerselva river.
If someone plans a trip to Oslo and a top-filled metal festival in the coming year, they should not only start putting some money aside, but also plan their journey. The pre-sale for "Tons of Rock" has already begun - from daily tickets to the 4-Day Festival Ticket - currently still at the Early-Bird-Price - is all available. First information about the line-up will be given soon, but one can rely on Festival Director Jarle Kvaale and his team, as the past has shown.
Those who prefer to stay in a hotel are certainly well advised not to wait too long with the booking. Otherwise, real festival fans also have several camping sites at their disposal. More about "Tons of Rock" and everything else can be found on the website of the event.
- Metallica fans were thrilled to see James Hetfield attend "Tons of Rock" in 2022, spending two days at the festival with his Norwegian friend Eicca Toppinen.
- Judas Priest, led by legendary vocalist Rob Halford, drew a large crowd at "Tons of Rock," with fans appreciating their energetic performance before Halford took the stage himself.
- In addition to Heavy Metal giants like Metallica and Judas Priest, "Tons of Rock" has also featured a diverse selection of bands, including Turnstile and Greta van Fleet, attracting fans of various music styles.
- For fans planning to attend "Tons of Rock" in 2026, purchasing a 4-Day Festival Ticket is an excellent option, especially during the Early-Bird-Price period, providing access to a variety of top-tier bands and performances.
