ATTENTION METALHEADS! 

Wacken Metal Battle Canada returns for 2026 battles all across the country to send one independent metal band to play at Wacken Open Air, one of the world’s most prestigious and largest metal festivals.

Band submissions for Canada are open now until November 30th.

“Canadian metal bands, this is your chance once again. This is the first step to a world of opportunity waiting for you. We invite you to play some great shows, expand your audience, and ultimately have your shot at playing Wacken Open Air,” adds WMBC organizer JJ Tartaglia.

The 2026 winners will receive a hearty pizepack that includes a spot at the 2026 Waken Open Air Festival with full professional backline, $1000 CAD towards flights to Germany & a VIP camping experience at the festival.

Canadian bands interested in participating can apply at https://www.metal-battle.com/countries/ 

Canadian Battle Cities include:​
Vancouver, BC
Vancouver Island, BC
BC Interior
Edmonton, AB
Toronto, ON
Hamilton, ON
Ottawa, ON
Montreal, QC
Quebec City, QC

The national final for 2026 battles will be held in Montreal, QC.

Previous WMBC national winners include:
Killotine (Hamilton, ON – 2025)
Beguiler (Toronto, ON – 2024) 
Strigampire (Trois-Rivières, QC – 2023)
The Slyde (Toronto, ON – 2019)
Centuries of Decay (Toronto, ON – 2018)
Profaner (Hamilton, ON – 2016)
Vesperia (Toronto, ON – 2015)
Mutank (Montreal, QC – 2014)
Crimson Shadows (Toronto, ON – 2013)

Go on now, what are you waiting for?