News: Breaking Darkness Music Festival 2026 Returns with Heavy Music and a Mission of Outreach
Breaking Darkness Music Festival has announced its return for 2026, bringing a full day of heavy music, fellowship, and purpose to The Hickory Premier in Hickory, North Carolina on Saturday, August 1, 2026.
Positioned as both a music festival and a benefit event, Breaking Darkness continues to unite artists and fans around themes of unity, hope, and redemption. The 2026 lineup spans multiple styles of heavy and alternative music, creating a diverse experience that reflects the wide reach of today’s Christian rock and metal scene. A special surprise band is also scheduled to be announced later in the year.
Featured Artists and Styles
War of Ages
Metalcore. A Billboard 200 national artist and longtime staple of the Christian metal scene, War of Ages is known for crushing riffs, precision-driven rhythms, and faith-forward lyrical conviction.
Relentless Flood
Hard rock and alternative metal. A modern heavy sound that blends driving guitar work with strong melodic hooks.
XIII Minutes
Alternative metal. Anthem-driven heavy rock built around emotional intensity and contemporary production.
Tricord
Nu-metal and hard rock. Groove-based heaviness paired with polished arrangements and commanding choruses.
Matt Sassano
Hard rock. High-energy modern rock with a strong focus on melody and live performance.
Billy James
Hip hop. Rhythm-driven, lyric-focused music that brings a bold crossover element to the festival lineup.
Counter
Female-fronted original modern rock. A dynamic sound built on strong vocals, polished songwriting, and modern rock sensibilities.
Autumn Eve
Metal and hard rock. Atmospheric heaviness balanced by dynamic arrangements and expressive songwriting.
Splitcast
Pop punk. Energetic, melodic punk rooted in hook-driven songwriting and upbeat tempos.
An additional surprise band will be revealed later in 2026.
Event Details
Date
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Doors
12:00 Noon
Venue
The Hickory Premier
109 11th Street N.W.
Hickory, NC 28601
MC
Glenn Remsen of Lithoscry
Ticket Information
Advance tickets are available for $15 plus fees when purchased by May 1, 2026.
Day of show tickets will be $30 at the door.
A four-pack advance ticket option is available for groups.
Early entry advance tickets are also available and include early venue access plus a swag bag.
Tickets and event information
https://www.breakingdarkness.com/
Eventbrite ticket page
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/breaking-darkness-music-festival-2026-tickets-1977786723330
A Festival With a Purpose
Breaking Darkness Music Festival 2026 is a benefit event, with all ticket proceeds supporting the following non-profit organizations:
Bethel Colony of Mercy
Foundry House
Recovery NC
These organizations provide recovery services, outreach programs, and long-term support for individuals and families in need.
Official Links
Website
https://www.breakingdarkness.com/
Spotify playlist
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4JEmEpT6PPyAW6jPARE6mO
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/breakingdarknessfest
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/breakingdarknessfest
HipRockSoul Network
https://linktr.ee/hiprocksoulnetwork
Heaven’s Metal Staff writer Stephanie Jordan discusses the third annual Breaking Darkness Fest in NC with Seth Olsen. 100% of profits go to local organizations provide recovery services, outreach programs, and long-term support for individuals and families in need.
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