On Saturday, Sept. 26, Silver Moon Brewing will trade its usual taproom atmosphere for a day of thunderous riffs, soaring vocals, and pounding drums as the inaugural High Desert Metal Festival arrives in Bend.
Presented by ThrashSquatch Productions in partnership with DNA Entertainment, TOUR DE THRASH Productions and additional supporters, the event is designed to celebrate Central Oregon’s growing underground metal scene while connecting local fans with nationally and internationally recognized artists.
Festival organizers describe the High Desert Metal Festival as more than just another concert.
“This is about building community,” said organizers. “We want to bring together fans, musicians, promoters, artists, vendors and local businesses who share a passion for heavy music and underground culture.”
The festival will be co-headlined by Artillery, one of Denmark’s most influential thrash metal bands, and Skelator, a rising force in traditional heavy metal.
Founded in 1982, Artillery has earned worldwide recognition for helping define the European thrash metal sound. With more than four decades of music behind them, the Danish veterans continue to attract devoted fans across multiple generations of metal enthusiasts.
Sharing top billing is Skelator, known for its blend of classic heavy metal influences, fantasy-inspired themes and high-energy live performances.
The lineup also features a strong mix of regional and local talent, including Bend’s own Gravewitch, which has become one of Central Oregon’s best-known metal acts.
“Having Gravewitch on the bill is important because they’re helping represent the local scene,” organizers said. “We wanted this festival to showcase what is happening right here in Bend alongside the touring acts.”
Gravewitch will be joined by Summoner’s Circle, IATT (pronounced Eye-At), Celestial Wizard, Damage Overdose, and opening act Acidic Decay.
Several of the bands are arriving in Bend as part of larger tours crossing the western United States. Gravewitch, Summoner’s Circle, and IATT are currently performing together on the Cosmic Convergence Tour, a 15-show run designed to introduce fans to a diverse range of heavy music styles. Meanwhile, Artillery and Celestial Wizard are touring together independently, bringing additional momentum to the festival lineup.
For local metal fans, the event represents a rare opportunity to see international artists perform alongside emerging regional acts in an intimate venue setting.
The festival will take place inside Silver Moon Brewing’s main taproom and is open to all ages. Organizers hope the family-friendly atmosphere will encourage younger fans to discover live music while giving longtime metal enthusiasts a chance to connect with others who share their passion.
Doors open at 3 pm, with Acidic Decay kicking off the music at 3:30 pm. Performances will continue throughout the afternoon and evening, concluding at 10 pm.
In addition to live music, attendees can browse band merchandise, meet musicians and enjoy food from vendors on-site. Every band participating in the festival will have merchandise available for purchase. The festival’s sole vendor will be Ruen Designs of Myrtle Creek, Oregon, which will make the trip to Bend to showcase its handcrafted products.
Organizers say support from local businesses, fans and artists has helped make the event possible and could pave the way for future metal festivals in Central Oregon. “Heavy metal has always thrived because of passionate communities,” organizers said. “We’re hoping this becomes something that continues to grow year after year.”
Tickets are available for $15 plus service fees through BendTicket.com. Admission at the door is expected to be $30.
With international headliners, a strong regional roster and a growing local metal scene eager for larger events, the High Desert Metal Festival aims to deliver a day of music while highlighting a corner of Bend’s arts and culture community that continues to gain momentum.
High Desert Metal Festival
Sat., Sep. 26, 3-10pm
Silver Moon Brewing
24 NW Greenwood Ave., Bend
$17.59
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