Hellsinki Metal Festival 2024

The festival started as finish as it gets with Finntroll and Beast in Black. Those two bands were the warmup on Thursday and a good representation, for what is about to come. While the other big festival in Helsinki, the TUSKA, sets the focus on modern Metal and younger bands, the HMF covers mostly established and “older” bands.

The festival ground is split up in an outdoor and indoor area. The indoor stage was set on the field of the ice hall and surrounded by seating areas. Perfect to rest a little bit, or to go wild in the pit in front of the stage. Whatever ones prefers. Some of the highlights in the hall were; Soen, Obscura, Gutalax, and Demoniac. Also to mention is the wrestling ring. Between the shows we got some wrestling action. Very interesting to watch and a great performance from the athletes. 

The two outdoor stage, Hellsinki 01 & 02 were located outside of the location on a lot, that is usually reserved for parking. The first stage was, unlike the last year, bigger in size and therefore the stage for the headliners of the festival. Heaven Shall Burn, Avantasia and Kreator were my favorites on that stage. Great performances and great show. It was nice to see Doro once, but I was a little disappointed by the lack of stage design.
On the mainstage’s right was the little one, Nr. 02. Hammerfall, Crownshift, Insomnium, Satyricon and Triumph of Death were only a few names that played there.

Between the stages were a few stands that covered all you eating and drinking needs as well as a few stands with random stuff to buy. Also the “One Eye Tattoo Studio” was present. In case you wanted to get a new tattoo. 

All in all a great package and just some awesome days in the capital city.