Knotfest 2025: Sideshows Announced with Slipknot, Babymetal, A Day To Remember, and More
Metal fans across Australia and New Zealand are in for an unforgettable experience as Knotfest 2025 unveils its extensive lineup of sideshows. Alongside the main festival events, the sideshows will bring headline performances from some of the biggest names in heavy music, including Slipknot, A Day To Remember, and Babymetal. These performances will take place in intimate clubs and grand arenas, offering fans a chance to connect with their favorite artists in unique settings.
Slipknot and Other Headliners
Festival headliners Slipknot will lead the charge with two arena shows, including a sold-out performance at AEC Arena in Adelaide. This is set to be one of the most anticipated metal events of the year, with Slipknot promising their signature explosive energy and theatrical production. A Day To Remember will perform a standalone headline show in Brisbane, bringing their dynamic blend of pop-punk, metalcore, and post-hardcore to fans. Meanwhile, Babymetal, the Japanese sensation known for their fusion of J-pop and heavy metal, will perform in Brisbane and Sydney following their sold-out Australian tour in 2023.
The sideshows will also feature a variety of other standout performances. Slaughter To Prevail, the Russian deathcore juggernaut, will headline a show in Melbourne’s Northcote Theatre, showcasing their intense sound and preparing fans for their upcoming third album, Grizzly. Within Temptation, the Dutch symphonic metal pioneers, will make their Australian debut after over three decades in the industry. Their 2023 album Bleed Out earned critical acclaim, reaching number two in the Netherlands and achieving top-ten positions across Europe.
Festival and Sideshow Dates
The main Knotfest festival will take place across three cities:
- Friday, February 28: Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne
- Sunday, March 2: Brisbane Showground, Brisbane
- Saturday, March 8: Centennial Park, Sydney
The sideshows kick off just before the festival and continue throughout the circuit, with dates spanning from February 27 to March 11. Key highlights include:
- Thursday, February 27: Slaughter To Prevail, Northcote Theatre, Melbourne
- Tuesday, March 4: Slipknot with Vended, AEC Arena, Adelaide (Sold Out)
- Thursday, March 6: Babymetal with Future Static, Enmore Theatre, Sydney
- Tuesday, March 11: Slipknot, Spark Arena, Auckland
Rising Stars and Special Guests
Knotfest 2025 also highlights emerging talent and local support acts, offering a platform for both established and up-and-coming artists. Iowa’s Vended, featuring Griffin Taylor (son of Slipknot’s Corey Taylor), will perform four headline shows in addition to supporting Slipknot in Adelaide. Their raw energy and familial connection to Slipknot make them one of the festival’s most exciting young bands.
San Francisco hardcore outfit Sunami will make their Australian debut, bringing their self-titled debut album to the stage. Meanwhile, metalcore veterans Miss May I will deliver fan favorites and tracks from their re-recorded debut album, Apologies Are for the Weak.
Local support acts will also shine during the sideshows. Melbourne’s Thornhill and Ocean Grove will join A Day To Remember in Brisbane, while Diamond Construct and Future Static will support Babymetal in Brisbane and Sydney, respectively.
Hardcore and Comedy
American hardcore legends Hatebreed are set to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their seminal album Perseverance with a three-date run, delivering their signature brand of aggression and resilience to Australian audiences. British electronic-rock crossover act Enter Shikari will also perform in intimate venues, showcasing material from their 2023 UK chart-topping album A Kiss for the Whole World.
Adding a unique twist to the lineup, Seattle-based comedian and metal enthusiast Luke Severeid will bring laughter to Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. His performances promise to offer lighthearted relief amidst the heavy music.
Babymetal’s Triumphant Return
Babymetal’s inclusion in the sideshow lineup marks a triumphant return to Australia. Known for their high-energy performances and unique blend of kawaii culture with metal, the Japanese trio continues to break barriers. Their recent collaboration with Electric Callboy on the track Ratatata has further cemented their global reputation. Notably, they were the first Asian act to top the Billboard Rock Albums chart, an achievement that underscores their impact on the genre.
The Significance of Knotfest’s Sideshow Series
Knotfest’s sideshow series provides fans with more than just an opportunity to see their favorite artists—it offers an intimate and diverse celebration of heavy music culture. By spanning venues ranging from cozy clubs to massive arenas, the sideshows create spaces where fans can connect with the music and the community.
The lineup reflects the festival’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity, with acts spanning a variety of subgenres within metal and rock. From the symphonic grandeur of Within Temptation to the visceral aggression of Slaughter To Prevail, there’s something for every fan.
What to Expect from the 2025 Edition
With Slipknot leading the charge, Knotfest 2025 is shaping up to be a milestone event in the Australian and New Zealand heavy music scene. The festival and its sideshows not only bring legendary acts to local stages but also highlight emerging talent and offer unique collaborations.
For fans of heavy music, this is more than just a series of concerts—it’s an immersive experience that captures the spirit of the global metal community. From the moshing pits of Melbourne to the intimate vibes of Brisbane’s Fortitude Music Hall, Knotfest promises unforgettable moments for attendees.
Lastly
Knotfest 2025 and its sideshows underscore the evolving landscape of metal and rock festivals, blending established legends with fresh talent to create a dynamic and inclusive experience. With performances from Slipknot, Babymetal, A Day To Remember, and a host of other artists, the festival offers a rare opportunity for fans in Australia and New Zealand to witness the best the genre has to offer.
Whether you’re there for the intense breakdowns, the theatrical performances, or the raw energy of the pit, Knotfest 2025 is set to deliver an unforgettable celebration of heavy music. Tickets are selling fast, so secure your spot now to be part of the action.
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