Graspop Metal Meeting 2026 - Thursday - Limp Bizkit, Within Temptation, Megadeth and more

Introduction

Get ready to kick off the ultimate heavy music pilgrimage! Graspop Metal Meeting 2026 is set to ignite Festivalpark Stenehei in Dessel on Thursday, 18th June 2026, and the opening day is already shaping up to be an absolute belter. Prepare yourselves for a blistering start to the festival season with a lineup that's guaranteed to get your heads banging and your spirits soaring. This isn't just another festival; it's a four-day celebration of all things metal, punk, and rock, drawing fans from every corner of the globe to the hallowed grounds of Dessel.

This year's opening day boasts an electrifying mix of nu-metal legends, symphonic metal titans, and thrash metal royalty, promising a day packed with unforgettable performances and pure unadulterated energy. From the moment the gates swing open, you'll be immersed in a world of crushing riffs, soaring vocals, and a camaraderie that only a gathering of this magnitude can foster. Graspop Metal Meeting has a reputation for delivering world-class lineups year after year, and 2026 is no exception. Thursday is just the beginning of what promises to be an epic weekend of music, community, and making memories that will last a lifetime. So, strap in, get your earplugs ready, and prepare for an opening day that sets an incredibly high bar for the rest of the festival.

About the Artist

Headlining the charge on Thursday, 18th June 2026, are the undisputed kings of nu-metal, Limp Bizkit. Hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, Fred Durst and his merry band of mischief-makers are renowned for their infectious energy, unforgettable anthems, and a stage presence that's as chaotic as it is captivating. Hits like 'Rollin'', 'Nookie', and 'Behind Blue Eyes' have cemented their status as icons of the genre, and their live shows are legendary for their high-octane delivery and the sheer joy they bring to the mosh pit. Expect a setlist packed with all the classics that defined a generation, delivered with the signature swagger and humour that only Limp Bizkit can provide. They're guaranteed to get the entire festival field bouncing.

Joining them in the upper echelons of Thursday's bill are the majestic Within Temptation. This Dutch powerhouse has been at the forefront of symphonic metal for decades, blending ethereal vocals, soaring melodies, and epic orchestral arrangements with crushing guitar riffs. Led by the incomparable Sharon den Adel, Within Temptation crafts anthems that are both beautiful and brutal, drawing legions of fans worldwide with their captivating stage shows and emotionally resonant lyrics. Expect to be swept away by hits like 'Ice Queen', 'Mother Earth', and 'Stand My Ground', delivered with the grandeur and passion that have become their hallmark. Their performance promises a moment of pure musical magic amidst the heavy onslaught.

And no metal festival worth its salt would be complete without the thrash metal titans, Megadeth. Spearheaded by the legendary Dave Mustaine, Megadeth are a force of nature in the metal scene, celebrated for their intricate musicianship, blistering speed, and politically charged lyrics. With a discography spanning over three decades and countless groundbreaking albums, they've consistently delivered some of the most influential and aggressive music known to man. Prepare for a masterclass in thrash metal as they unleash classics like 'Holy Wars... The Punishment Due', 'Symphony of Destruction', and 'Peace Sells', demonstrating why they remain one of the genre's most enduring and respected acts. Their set is sure to be a ferocious display of technical prowess and raw aggression.

Beyond these colossal headliners, Thursday at Graspop Metal Meeting 2026 will feature a diverse array of talent, showcasing the breadth and depth of the heavy music spectrum. Keep an eye out for more announcements as the full lineup unfolds, promising even more incredible bands across multiple stages. This opening day is designed to satisfy every metalhead's craving, from the mosh-pit dwellers to the headbangers enjoying from the periphery.

The Venue

Festivalpark Stenehei in Dessel, Belgium, is the undisputed home of Graspop Metal Meeting, and for good reason. This sprawling festival site has been meticulously crafted over the years to provide the perfect environment for a world-class metal festival. Situated in the heart of Flanders, the park offers ample space for multiple stages, bustling food courts, diverse camping facilities, and, of course, the legendary main arena where the magic truly happens. Its accessibility and capacity make it an ideal location for an event of this magnitude, welcoming tens of thousands of metalheads from across the globe.

The venue is renowned for its excellent infrastructure, designed to handle the sheer volume of attendees while ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. You'll find well-maintained pathways, clear signage, and a dedicated team working tirelessly to keep the site in top condition throughout the festival. The layout is intuitive, allowing for easy navigation between stages, amenities, and camping areas. Graspop has become synonymous with Festivalpark Stenehei, and the site itself plays a crucial role in creating the unique atmosphere that defines the event. The open fields, the distant horizon, and the sheer scale of the setup all contribute to a sense of epic adventure. Whether you're front and centre at the main stage or exploring the smaller, more intimate venues, Festivalpark Stenehei provides a fitting backdrop for the thunderous sounds of Graspop Metal Meeting.

What to Expect

Prepare for an assault on the senses from the moment you step foot into Festivalpark Stenehei on Thursday, 18th June 2026. Graspop Metal Meeting is not just about the music; it's a full-blown cultural experience for the dedicated metal fan. Expect a vibrant atmosphere buzzing with energy, camaraderie, and a shared passion for heavy music. The air will be thick with anticipation, the scent of festival food, and the distant roar of the crowd. From the sheer power of Limp Bizkit's nu-metal anthems to the symphonic grandeur of Within Temptation and the relentless thrash of Megadeth, the musical offerings on day one are nothing short of spectacular. You'll witness legendary performers delivering career-defining sets, alongside a host of other incredible bands across various stages, each offering a unique flavour of heavy music.

Beyond the main stages, Graspop offers a plethora of activities and experiences. Explore the diverse food stalls offering everything from classic festival grub to more adventurous culinary delights. Browse the merchandise stands for exclusive band apparel and festival souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the vibrant crowd, a melting pot of metalheads from all walks of life, united by their love for the music. The festival site itself is a spectacle, with impressive stage designs and a palpable sense of excitement. Whether you're navigating the bustling main arena, seeking refuge in a more intimate tent stage, or simply soaking up the atmosphere with friends, Graspop delivers an unparalleled festival experience. Be ready for anything – surprise guest appearances, spontaneous singalongs, and moments of pure rock and roll magic are always on the cards. This is your chance to be part of something truly special, a gathering that celebrates the enduring power and community of metal music.

Practical Information

Dates: Thursday, 18th June 2026 is the opening day of Graspop Metal Meeting 2026. The festival runs for multiple days, so plan your visit accordingly.

Location: Festivalpark Stenehei, Stenehei, B-2400 Dessel, Belgium.

Getting There: Dessel is accessible by car, and there are clear signposts leading to the festival site. Public transport options include train services to nearby stations like Mol or Lommel, followed by shuttle buses to the festival grounds. Carpooling is highly recommended to ease congestion and reduce environmental impact. Secure parking is available for attendees arriving by car, with options for day parking and longer-term festival parking.

Accommodation: Camping is an integral part of the Graspop experience. Various camping options are available, ranging from standard pitches to more premium packages. Book your camping spot well in advance as they sell out quickly. Alternatively, hotels and guesthouses can be found in Dessel and surrounding towns, but book these early too, as demand is extremely high during the festival period.

Facilities: The festival site is equipped with numerous food and drink vendors, toilet facilities, medical stations, and merchandise stalls. Water points are available throughout the park for refilling reusable bottles. ATMs are usually present, but it's advisable to bring some cash for smaller vendors or in case of technical issues.

What to Bring: Essential items include a tent (if camping), sleeping bag, comfortable footwear (you'll be doing a lot of walking!), waterproof clothing (Belgian weather can be unpredictable), sun protection, a portable phone charger, earplugs, and any personal medication. Remember to pack light but smart!

Rules & Regulations: Familiarize yourself with Graspop's official rules and regulations regarding prohibited items, camping policies, and site conduct. These are usually available on the official festival website closer to the event date. Respect your fellow festival-goers and the environment.

Safety: Festival security is paramount. Be aware of your surroundings, look after your belongings, and report any concerns to festival staff or security personnel immediately. Medical teams are on-site to assist with any health issues.

Getting Tickets

Tickets for Graspop Metal Meeting 2026, including access to the electrifying Thursday lineup featuring Limp Bizkit, Within Temptation, and Megadeth, are expected to be in extremely high demand. To secure your entry to what promises to be an unforgettable opening day, you'll want to act fast. StubHub is the official and recommended platform for purchasing your tickets. They offer a secure and reliable way to buy and sell tickets, ensuring you get access to the event. Due to the popularity of Graspop, it's advisable to visit StubHub's official website as soon as ticket sales are announced. Keep an eye on the official Graspop Metal Meeting website and StubHub for the latest information on ticket release dates and pricing. Don't miss out on your chance to experience the thunderous start to Graspop 2026!