Metallica emerged as the champions of the day, stepping in with a remarkable act of generosity to rescue Tomorrowland, the iconic Belgian electronic music festival. This intervention came after an unforeseen fire devastated its main stage, threatening to derail the entire event.
This year’s Tomorrowland festival, scheduled from July 18 to 27, is anticipated to attract a staggering 400,000 attendees to the picturesque town of Boom in Antwerp province, Belgium. However, on Wednesday, the festival faced a critical setback when the colossal main stage was engulfed in flames, casting uncertainty over the festival’s future.
In a stunning twist, Metallica stepped up to the plate, offering parts of their stage, which had been utilized during their recent European tour and stored in Austrian facilities. According to the local newspaper The Latest News, the impressive rig, complete with a vast array of screens, was swiftly airlifted to the festival grounds overnight, enabling Tomorrowland to commence as scheduled at 2 p.m. on Friday.
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Festival Organizers and Artists Express Gratitude to Metallica for Their Support
“It feels like a miracle, and we are absolutely thrilled to be opening as planned,” exclaimed Tomorrowland spokesperson Debby Wilmsen in an interview with DJ Mag. “Just two hours ago, we were still in the process of dismantling the old stage.”
Renowned Dutch DJ Martin Garrix, one of the festival’s headlining acts, took to Instagram to express his heartfelt thanks to Metallica, posting a photo of himself alongside drummer Lars Ulrich.
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“I can’t believe I’m actually writing this … but my set at Tomorrowland is still happening!” Garrix shared. “Sending massive love and a huge shoutout to the incredible Tomorrowland team for pulling off this miracle — and to Metallica for providing the new stage components. I am beyond excited to close the main stage tonight, and this will undoubtedly be the most unique Tomorrowland ever.”
The legendary Metallica will resume their M72 world tour in November, embarking on a series of performances across Australia. Fans can also look forward to their return to Europe in May 2026.
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Gallery Credit: UCR Staff
