Alcatraz Open Air 2026, Kortrijk, Belgium
Overview
Alcatraz Open Air is one of Belgium’s most respected heavy metal and hard rock festivals, known for its incredible atmosphere and high-tier production. Located in the historic city of Kortrijk, the festival has grown from a small indoor event to a massive four-day outdoor celebration of all things heavy. The festival site is famously themed around a prison concept, featuring four distinct stages: Prison, Swamp, Helldorado, and La Morgue, each offering a unique sonic experience ranging from classic thrash and power metal to extreme death and black metal.
What sets Alcatraz apart is its commitment to the “fan first” experience, balancing a massive lineup with a cozy, community-driven feel. The festival grounds are meticulously designed with impressive stage structures, a wide array of food options, and the famous El Presidio bar. Whether you are a veteran “inmate” or a first-time visitor, Alcatraz Open Air provides a perfectly organized weekend where the passion for loud music and Belgian hospitality meet under the summer sun.
Event Highlights
- Four Diverse Stages: Experience a massive variety of genres across the iconic Prison (main stage), the atmospheric Swamp, the intense Helldorado, and the underground-focused La Morgue.
- Immersive Prison Theme: Enjoy a unique festival environment featuring guard towers, prison-themed decor, and the legendary El Presidio themed bar for a fully immersive experience.
- Global Metal Lineup: Bang your head to over 100 bands ranging from international legends and arena-fillers to the most promising new acts in the extreme metal scene.
- Premium Festival Comfort: Benefit from top-notch facilities, including the highly-rated “Alcatraz Camping,” clean infrastructure, and a curated selection of Belgian craft beers and gourmet food.
Why Attend
Alcatraz Open Air is the perfect choice for metalheads who want a large-scale festival lineup without the overwhelming soul-lessness of massive corporate events. It is specifically designed for fans who appreciate attention to detail, from the sound quality at every stage to the creative art installations scattered throughout the site. The festival attracts a loyal, friendly crowd from all over Europe, making it an ideal place to meet like-minded people in a safe and high-energy environment.
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This event is a must for anyone touring the European summer festival circuit, offering a more intimate alternative to giants like Hellfest or Wacken while maintaining the same level of musical prestige. With its easy-to-navigate layout and proximity to the city of Kortrijk, it is also perfect for international travelers who want to combine a metal festival with a visit to one of Belgium’s most charming regions. At Alcatraz, every attendee is treated like a VIP, ensuring a weekend of pure, unadulterated metal madness.
Date & Duration
- Event Dates: Thursday, August 6 – Sunday, August 9, 2026.
- Festival Duration: A 4-day event starting with a pre-party on Thursday, followed by three full days of live music.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Kortrijk, Belgium.
- Venue: Sportcampus Lange Munte.
- Google Maps Address: Bad Godesberglaan 22, 8500 Kortrijk, Belgium.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets are available exclusively through the official Alcatraz website via the Paylogic system.
- Admission Type: Open to all ages; however, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the environment is best suited for teenagers and adults.
- Ticket Pricing: Prices range from a minimum of approximately $210 for standard weekend passes to a maximum of $420 for VIP experiences.
- Free Admission Type: There is no free admission; however, the festival offers discounted rates for local residents of Kortrijk during specific sale windows.
- Special Seating or VIP Options: VIP tickets include access to a raised deck with a premium view of the Prison stage, a private lounge, separate toilets, and priority parking.
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Contact Information
- Email: info@alcatraz.be
- Phone: +32 56 21 11 51 (Kortrijk Tourism Support)
- Website: www.alcatraz.be
- Social Media:
- https://www.facebook.com/alcatrazmusic
- https://www.instagram.com/alcatrazfestival/
- https://twitter.com/alcatrazmusic
- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM_42x5Qpzo5rXbEGCR5Lpg
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: Brussels Airport (BRU), 100 km (~1 hour by train/car); Lille Airport (LIL) in France, 30 km (~25 minutes by taxi).
- Public Transport: Frequent trains run to Kortrijk Station; from there, free festival shuttle buses transport fans directly to the Lange Munte site.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis from Kortrijk center to the site cost roughly $15-$25; use local services like Taxi Leo or apps available in the region.
- Parking: Large dedicated festival parking lots are available for approximately $15 per day; follow the “P-Alcatraz” signage on the E17 motor-way.
- Other Access: Many fans choose to arrive by bicycle; a large, free, and guarded bike park is located right at the festival entrance.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: Parkhotel Kortrijk (4-star Superior, 2.5 km, wellness and luxury, ~$180-260/night); Hotel Wu Wei (4-star, 2 km, spa and wellness center, ~$170-240/night).
- Mid-Range Options: Ibis Styles Kortrijk Expo (3-star, 1.5 km, modern and functional, ~$110-160/night); Focus Hotel (3-star, 2.5 km, unique art-themed rooms, ~$100-150/night).
- Budget Stays: Alcatraz Camping (On-site, tent/pre-pitched options, ~$60-120 for the weekend); Hostel Groeninghe (Hostel, 3 km, modern and very affordable, ~$40-70/night).
Reviews
- The organization is flawless and the prison theme makes the whole site look incredible at night.
- It is the friendliest metal festival in Europe; you can actually enjoy the music without being crushed by crowds.
- The sound quality in the Swamp tent is better than most indoor venues I have visited.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
How does the token system work for food and drinks?
Alcatraz uses a cashless system where you purchase physical or digital tokens to pay for all food and beverages. Tokens can be bought at various booths across the site using cash, debit cards, or credit cards. Be sure to check if unused tokens are refundable, as policies can vary between festival editions.
What are the different camping options available?
The festival offers several levels of camping including the standard "bring your own tent" area and the "Eagle Plaza." Eagle Plaza offers pre-pitched tents and luxury lodges for those who want a more comfortable, hassle-free stay. All camping areas include access to showers, toilets, and a breakfast area for a great start to the day.
Is there a locker service available on-site?
Yes, lockers are available near the main entrance so you can safely store your belongings and merchandise. You can rent lockers for a single day or for the entire weekend, and they come in various sizes. It is highly recommended to book your locker online in advance as they often sell out before the gates open.
Are professional cameras allowed at the festival?
Standard point-and-shoot cameras are allowed, but professional equipment with detachable lenses is strictly prohibited. Only accredited press members with valid passes are permitted to bring professional photography or video gear. Recording full sets on mobile devices is discouraged out of respect for the artists and other fans.
What should I do if I lose my wristband?
Your wristband is your only proof of entry and is strictly personal; if it is lost or stolen, it will not be replaced. Treat your wristband like cash and ensure it is fastened securely to your wrist at the check-in booth. If you have an issue with a damaged wristband, go immediately to the "Help Desk" at the main entrance with your ID.
