Wacken Open Air announces a string of new countries in which to participate. Bands from all around the world can compete to be on the already sold out 2025 edition of Europe’s biggest heavy metal festival.

Says the organisation:
We are thrilled to officially announce the participating countries for the Wacken Metal Battle 2025. Once again, we will unite the underground metal scenes from around the world in one of the most prestigious competitions for emerging metal bands. This year’s Metal Battle will see the event expanding its global reach, including new and returning regions, all vying for a chance to perform on the grand stage at Wacken Open Air, the world’s largest and most legendary metal festival.

From the scorching sands of the Middle East to the icy lands of Finland, from the Caribbean shores to the Balkan regions, the global metal community will come together in a fierce competition of talent and passion. Each country will host local Metal Battles to determine which band will represent their nation in the international finals, taking place at the sacred grounds of Wacken in 2025.

We are excited to witness the diversity of sounds, cultures, and stories that each band will bring, strengthening the global metal community and offering an unparalleled opportunity for emerging acts to make their mark on the world stage.

Participating Countries for Wacken Metal Battle 2025:
Australia & New Zealand
Argentina
Balkan Regions
Bulgaria
Canada
Caribbean
Caucasia & Türkiye
Central America
China
Denmark
Finland
Germany
Iceland
Indian Sub-Continent
Indonesia
Israel
Ireland
Malta
Mexico
Middle East
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
Czech Republic
Spain
South America Northern Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Switzerland
Sweden
Uruguay
USA

Check over here the countries which have opened applications for 2025 already.