The Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival has revealed its headlining acts for 2026, featuring a powerful lineup of rock and alternative music's biggest names. My Chemical Romance, Shinedown, Bring Me The Horizon, and Tool will lead the four-day event set to take place in Columbus, Ohio. This announcement marks the festival's fifth year, promising an expansive musical and artistic experience for attendees.
Key Takeaways
- My Chemical Romance, Shinedown, Bring Me The Horizon, and Tool headline Sonic Temple 2026.
- The festival runs from May 14 to 17, 2026, at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.
- Over 140 bands are scheduled to perform across multiple stages.
- Beyond music, the festival will feature live art installations and unique fan experiences.
Four Days of Major Headliners
The festival, produced by Danny Wimmer Presents, will kick off on Thursday, May 14, 2026, with My Chemical Romance leading the charge. This marks a significant return for the band to major festival stages, drawing considerable excitement from fans.
Friday, May 15, will see Shinedown take the top spot, known for their powerful live performances and chart-topping rock anthems. They will be joined by other prominent acts, setting the stage for a high-energy second day.
Festival Fast Facts
- Location: Historic Crew Stadium, Columbus, Ohio
- Dates: May 14-17, 2026
- Headliners: My Chemical Romance, Shinedown, Bring Me The Horizon, Tool
- Total Bands: Over 140
Saturday, May 16, features British rock sensation Bring Me The Horizon as the headliner. Their dynamic sound, blending various genres, has garnered them a massive global following. The festival continues its diverse booking with this choice.
Closing out the festival on Sunday, May 17, will be the progressive rock titans Tool. Renowned for their intricate musicianship and immersive visual shows, Tool promises a memorable finale to the four-day event. Their performance is highly anticipated by their dedicated fanbase.
A Gargantuan Lineup of Over 140 Bands
Beyond the headliners, the Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival boasts an extensive roster of over 140 bands across various rock and alternative subgenres. This vast selection ensures there is music for nearly every taste, from heavy metal to punk rock and alternative pop.
Notable acts confirmed for the festival include Pierce The Veil, Breaking Benjamin, The Offspring, and Staind. These bands represent a strong mix of established favorites and modern rock staples, contributing to the festival's broad appeal. Other significant names appearing are Godsmack, Megadeth, Halestorm, and Lamb of God, showcasing the heavy metal and hard rock presence.
"The sheer scale of talent assembled for Sonic Temple 2026 is truly impressive. It reflects a commitment to offering a comprehensive experience for rock and alternative music fans."
The lineup also features a strong showing from bands like Rise Against, All Time Low, Yellowcard, and Simple Plan, appealing to fans of punk rock and pop-punk. Electric Callboy and Motionless in White will bring their unique styles, adding to the festival's diverse soundscape.
Further down the bill, attendees can expect performances from Coheed and Cambria, Amon Amarth, BUSH, and Lorna Shore. The inclusion of such a wide array of bands, from legacy acts like Marilyn Manson and Stone Temple Pilots to newer heavy acts like Slaughter To Prevail and Architects, highlights the festival's ambition to cater to all generations of rock enthusiasts.
Historic Crew Stadium
Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio, is a landmark venue known for hosting major concerts and sporting events. Its open-air setting provides a fitting backdrop for large-scale music festivals, offering ample space for multiple stages and fan amenities. The stadium has a long history of accommodating large crowds and delivering memorable live experiences.
Beyond the Music: Art and Unique Experiences
True to its name, the Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival integrates a significant art component into its overall experience. Attendees can expect live murals and various art installations spread throughout the festival grounds. This focus on visual arts complements the auditory experience, creating a multi-sensory environment.
The festival will see the return of popular art features such as the Art Boutique, Art Towers, and Art Walls. These elements provide platforms for artists to showcase their work and engage with festival-goers. Renowned artists Terry Urban and Jay Howell, known for his work on the animated series 'Bob's Burgers,' are confirmed to contribute their creative talents, promising a vibrant and dynamic visual landscape.
Culinary and Leisure Offerings
Adding to the festival's unique atmosphere are its diverse culinary and leisure options. Maynard James Keenan's Caduceus Wine Garden will be back, offering a more relaxed setting for those looking to enjoy fine wines amidst the energetic festival environment. This provides a distinct contrast to the main stages, allowing for moments of calm.
The fan-favorite Dive Bar will also make its return. This popular spot offers a casual gathering place for attendees to grab a drink, socialize, and take a break from the main crowds. These non-musical attractions enhance the overall festival experience, making it more than just a series of concerts.
Artistic Contributions
- Live murals and installations
- Art Boutique, Art Towers, Art Walls
- Featured artists: Terry Urban, Jay Howell (of Bob's Burgers fame)
The Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival continues to solidify its position as a premier event in the rock and alternative music calendar. With its impressive lineup, artistic focus, and diverse offerings, the 2026 edition is set to draw thousands of fans to Columbus for an unforgettable four-day celebration of music and art. Tickets are expected to be in high demand following this major announcement.