Heavy metal legends Metallica have stepped up in an unexpected way—by rescuing one of the world’s biggest electronic music festivals.
The renowned rock band came to the aid of Tomorrowland 2025, held in Boom, Belgium, after a major fire destroyed the festival’s main stage just days before opening. Their quick action helped ensure the show would go on for nearly 400,000 attendees.
Fire Erupts, Threatening the Festival
The 2025 edition of Tomorrowland, scheduled from July 18 to July 27, faced a massive crisis when a fire broke out and completely destroyed its iconic main stage on Wednesday. The stage, known for its elaborate visuals and scale, is a centerpiece of the festival’s global appeal.
The cause of the fire hasn’t been publicly disclosed as of now, but no injuries were reported. Firefighters responded swiftly, though the damage was too extensive to repair the original structure in time.
Metallica Lends a Lifeline
With time running out and opening day nearing, Metallica came to the rescue. According to Antwerp’s local news outlet Het Laatste Nieuws, the band had equipment from their European M72 tour stored in Austria. Upon hearing about the incident, Metallica offered parts of their massive touring stage to the Tomorrowland organizers.
These stage components included a huge wall of high-resolution screens, lighting rigs, and structural supports—key elements needed to rebuild the performance area.
In an extraordinary logistical feat, the parts were airlifted overnight to Belgium and installed in time for the festival’s scheduled opening.
Tomorrowland Opens as Planned
Thanks to the metal band’s support, Tomorrowland opened its doors at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 19, as originally planned. Festival organizers had been working nonstop to clear the damaged structure and erect a new one using Metallica’s gear.
Debby Wilmsen, a spokesperson for Tomorrowland, told DJ Mag, “It is a miracle and we are beyond happy to be opening. Two hours ago we were still demolishing the old stage.”
Artists and Fans Praise Metallica’s Help
Dutch DJ and music producer Martin Garrix, one of the headline performers for this year’s festival, took to Instagram to share his excitement and gratitude.
“I can not believe I’m actually typing this … but my set at Tomorrowland is still happening!” he wrote. “Massive love and a big shoutout to the incredible Tomorrowland team for pulling off miracles — and to Metallica for coming through with the new stage parts. Beyond excited to close the main stage tonight. And this will hands down be the most unique Tomorrowland ever.”
Garrix even shared a backstage photo with Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich, showcasing a rare and heartwarming crossover between the worlds of metal and electronic dance music.
Metallica’s World Tour Will Resume Later in 2025
Metallica is currently taking a short break from their M72 World Tour, which will resume in November 2025 in Australia. The tour, which supports their latest studio album, has received praise for its production value and fan experience.
Following their dates in Oceania, Metallica is set to return to Europe in May 2026, with more shows lined up across major cities including Berlin, Milan, and Madrid.
Their unexpected role in helping Tomorrowland is just another example of the band’s wide influence and support for fellow artists, no matter the genre.
A Festival to Remember
Despite the major setback, Tomorrowland 2025 is now underway, with a lineup including Martin Garrix, Armin van Buuren, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, and Charlotte de Witte.
This year’s edition will undoubtedly go down as one of the most memorable, not only for its music but for the solidarity and surprise support from Metallica that made it all possible.
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