Swedish melodic death metal pioneers Dark Tranquillity have officially been announced for Rock Hard Festival 2026, taking place May 22–24 at the iconic Amphitheater Gelsenkirchen in Germany.
Since its debut in 2003, Rock Hard Festival has become one of Europe’s most respected gatherings for hard rock and metal fans — blending classic heavy metal with modern extreme sounds in a stunning open-air amphitheater setting in the heart of Germany’s Ruhr region.
The 2026 lineup already features an impressive mix of legendary acts and rising stars:
- Dark Tranquillity 🇸🇪
- Armored Saint 🇺🇸
- Coroner 🇨🇭
- Mikkey Dee with Friends (performing Motörhead classics) 🇸🇪
- Slime 🇩🇪
- Lucifer 🇸🇪/🇩🇪
- Angel Witch 🇬🇧
- Ronnie Romero & Gus G. 🇪🇸/🇬🇷
- Hirax 🇺🇸
- Wytch Hazel 🇬🇧
- Nailed to Obscurity 🇩🇪
- Necrophobic 🇸🇪
The organizers have also teased 10 more top acts yet to be revealed.
With the announcement of Dark Tranquillity, the festival gains serious melodic firepower. Following their monumental “1991–2025” box set and latest album “Endtime Signals” (2024), the Gothenburg veterans are ready to deliver a career-spanning set filled with timeless energy and emotion.
Rock Hard Festival is celebrated for its intimate atmosphere, stellar sound production, and loyal fan community. Each year, thousands of metalheads from across Europe gather for what many consider the perfect alternative to the massive crowds of Wacken or Hellfest.
Tickets & info:
Visit rockhardfestival.de for the full lineup and ticket details.