Welcome to Armstrong MetalFest, the epitome of heavy metal mayhem in the heart of British Columbia!
Attention — The following is last year’s survival guide.
This survival guide is tailored specifically for the unique experience that awaits you at Armstrong MetalFest. Prepare to unleash the metal in this immersive festival, where you’ll witness blistering performances, forge lasting friendships, and become part of a vibrant metal community.
2026 Festival Schedule
2026 setlist schedule coming soon
Friday, July 17th
Rivers of Nihil (Reading, PA)
Cyborg Octopus (San Francisco, CA)
Fervence (Austin, TX)
Nott (Seattle, WA)
Iron Kingdom (Vancouver, BC)
Lycanthro (Ottawa, ON)
W.M.D. (Vancouver, BC)
Syryn (Calgary, AB)
Nameless King (Vancouver, BC)
Frosthymn (Calgary, AB)
Die Another Day (Calgary, AB)
Pharm (Kelowna, BC)
Muscle Crow (Kelowna, BC)
Shotgun Divine (Nelson, BC)
Skeksis (Vernon, BC)
Saturday, July 18th
Dying Fetus (Baltimore, MD)
Into Eternity (Regina, SK)
Vintersea (Portland, OR)
Odinfist (Okanagan, BC)
Wych (Calgary, AB)
Art of Attrition (Red Deer, AB)
The Judge The Juror (Edmonton, AB)
Brain Stem (Edmonton, AB)
Gregorious (Kamloops, BC)
Empalement (Victoria, BC)
Broken Crow (Kamloops, BC)
Daniel Martin & The Infamous (Edmonton, AB)
The Collapse (Kelowna, BC)
On top of great band performances, make sure to explore other events going on, such as:
Yeti Games
Participate in this year’s Yeti Games with 6 extreme skill-testing events! 20 participants compete for a chance to win two free passes to next year’s metal fest. The last person standing wins…
Email [email protected] to sign up.
There might be openings at the last minute, so show up to the opening ceremony, and we may have a jersey with your number on it!
Sword Fighting Performances
Get ready for live steel and medieval combat at the festival with the North Okanagan Fellowship of Swordfighters (NOFS)! Specializing in historical martial arts such as Longsword and Sword & Buckler, NOFS brings skilled demonstrations, precision technique, and the spirit of historical combat to the festival grounds. Whether you’re a longtime fan of swordplay or seeing it for the first time, don’t miss the chance to witness these warriors in action!
Thrash Wrestling
Experience an electrifying event featuring the high-octane clash of titans! Join us on Saturday for an unforgettable afternoon of fierce competition, heart-stopping moments, and pure wrestling mayhem!
Beer Helmet March
Do you have what it takes to join the Charge of the Beer Box Brigade? Are you skilled with scissors, tape and cardboard? Are your smithing skills up to a proficiency roll? If you answered Yes, Yar or WAAAGGGHHHH, then this is for YOU!
Lay your helm upon thy brow, strap bracers upon wrists, and armour upon breast, and Verily join us in the Greatest March of Cool to ever be witnessed at the Armstrong Famers Market
Accessories will be counted alongside helms!
Judges will be rating based on Creativity, Resourcefulness and Awesomer Factor
Shredwalkers MTG
Calling all planeswalkers and spellcasters! Friday and Saturday from 10 AM—7 PM in the Goosehorn Cafe.
Friday:
Free to play, any format/casual
Saturday:
$2 per seat entry
4 Players per table
Make your own pods and play any format
Prizing for winners, and every game enters you to win a grand prize!
Getting Ready for the Metal Assault
Explore the Festival: Dive into the world of Armstrong MetalFest by studying the festival lineup, stage schedules, and special events. Familiarize yourself with the festival grounds and layout to plan your itinerary effectively.
Gear Up for the Madness: Dress comfortably yet in true metal fashion. Embrace your favorite band merch or deck yourself out in classic metal attire. Don’t forget essentials like earplugs, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle to keep you energized throughout the festival.
Surviving the Pit of Chaos
Mosh Pit Rituals: Armstrong MetalFest is known for its energetic mosh pits. Embrace the adrenaline rush but remember to respect your fellow metalheads. Follow the unwritten rules of the pit, help those in need, and create a safe environment for all.
Recharge and Replenish
Hydration is Key: Stay hydrated under the scorching sun by drinking plenty of water. Head to the Goosehorne Cafe or one of our many vendors to grab a refreshing beverage to keep yourself energized. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the beer gardens if you’re of age!
Fuel Your Metal Fire: Seek out the diverse food options offered at Armstrong MetalFest. Indulge in delicious eats that cater to all dietary preferences and keep your energy levels high. Remember to refuel and keep rocking!
Amplify Your Experience
Embrace the Metal Community: Armstrong MetalFest is renowned for its passionate metal community. Engage with fellow metalheads, share your enthusiasm, and forge connections that will last beyond the festival. Embrace the unity and spirit that metal brings.
Discover New Riffs: While Armstrong MetalFest showcases prominent bands, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the rising stars and underground acts. Venture beyond your comfort zone, and let the music guide you to thrilling new discoveries.
Safety and Security
Be Mindful of Your Belongings: Amidst the electrifying atmosphere, remember to secure your belongings. Keep valuables safe and be cautious of pickpockets. Consider using a secure bag or pouch to keep your essentials close.
Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with the festival’s emergency exits, medical facilities, and first aid stations. Stay vigilant, look out for your well-being and that of others. In case of any medical emergencies, seek immediate assistance.
Armstrong MetalFest awaits you with its unrivaled energy, exceptional performances, and a community that embraces metal with unwavering passion. This survival guide equips you to navigate the metal battlefield and emerge triumphant with memories that will fuel your love for heavy metal. Unleash the metal at Armstrong MetalFest, and let the power of the music elevate your experience to extraordinary heights.
Horns up, and let the metal reign supreme!