Born in 2006 from the ashes of the Furyfest, Hellfest has established itself as the biggest extreme music festival in France and one of the most renowned in the world. With over 240,000 attendees gathered over four days in Clisson (Loire-Atlantique / 30km southeast of Nantes), it brings together each year a loyal community of enthusiasts — the Hellbangers — coming from all corners of the globe to live a unique experience in Hell.
The festival doesn’t just line up concerts: it offers a world of its own, with monumental sets, metal sculptures, and flames that change throughout the day. Every corner of the site is designed as a fully immersive visual experience, where the metal imagination meets art and spectacle. More than a festival, it’s a theme park dedicated to rock/metal culture.
From Metallica to Iron Maiden, including Black Sabbath, Aerosmith, Slipknot, Foo Fighters, Guns N’ Roses, Rammstein, KISS, and Nine Inch Nails, the biggest names in rock and metal have taken the stage at Hellfest. Each year, more than 180 bands perform across 6 themed stages:
Right at the entrance of the site, Hellcity Square sets the tone. A true hub of activity, it hosts the Extreme Market (vinyls, merch, jewelry, etc.), tattoo/piercing booths, partner areas and branded activations, as well as the first concerts on the Hellstage. It’s a vibrant crossroads where fans, newcomers, and entertainment all come together—just before diving into the arena.
Located in the town of Clisson, Hellfest maintains close ties with its local area, working in collaboration with local associations such as Animaje. It is actively committed to a CSR approach (waste sorting, circular economy, accessibility), as well as risk prevention (Hellcare, fight against discrimination, psychological support). A massive yet human and responsible festival.
