Festival organizer Danny Wimmer Presents has confirmed that Tool and Shinedown will headline alongside previously announced acts My Chemical Romance and Bring Me The Horizon at the fifth annual Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival. The event will return to Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio, running from May 14 through May 17, 2026.
Recognized as one of America’s premier rock festivals, Sonic Temple will feature over 140 rock, metal, and punk artists performing across five stages — a new expansion for the 2026 edition.
Brent Smith of Shinedown expressed his excitement about headlining the festival, saying: “Barry, Zach, Eric, and I have waited for this opportunity to be a headliner at Sonic Temple for a very long time. We are going to go all out for this performance. We know the fans have very high expectations. So with that being said, we are going to give all of Ohio everything we’ve got!!!! Thank you to Danny Wimmer for this incredible opportunity!!! LET’S GO SHINEDOWN NATION.”
Beyond the music, Sonic Temple continues to stand out for its celebration of visual art, turning the festival grounds into a living art experience. The Art Boutique, Art Towers, and Art Walls will return, featuring live installations and interactive artwork unfolding throughout the weekend.
This year’s art programming will spotlight contemporary painter Terry Urban, known for his colorful pop-meets-street aesthetic, and illustrator Jay Howell, the creative force behind Bob’s Burgers and Sanjay and Craig. Their vibrant visuals will add a playful energy to the festival atmosphere. The event will also showcase artists from Columbus through live mural painting and curated exhibits, celebrating the city’s thriving creative scene.
Returning favorites include the Caduceus Wine Garden, featuring selections from Maynard James Keenan’s Caduceus Cellars and Merkin Vineyards, offering attendees a relaxing retreat from the high-energy stages. Fans can also look forward to the return of The Dive Bar, a crowd favorite known for its surprise sets and spontaneous performances.
Festival passes — including Single-Day, 4-Day GA, GA Plus, VIP, and Premium Experience options — are now available here, with layaway plans starting at just $1 down and over six months to pay in full. Premium offerings such as Rock Royalty provide fans with exclusive photo opportunities, memorabilia displays, and access to luxury lounges.
The Columbus Owners Club experience offers mainstage field access, stadium seating, VIP lounge entry, and access to private spaces featuring air-conditioned areas, complimentary food and beverages, and premium restrooms. Private suite options are also available for groups looking for a more exclusive experience, with reservations via here.
Service fees from all ticket purchases will contribute to the DWP Foundation, which supports both local and national charities.
New for 2026, students with a valid .edu email will be able to purchase a discounted $123 all-inclusive Single-Day GA Stadium Pass through FEVO. Additionally, DWP has partnered again with GOVX to offer special ticket pricing for military members, nurses, firefighters, and police officers who verify their eligibility.
Fans can also book official hotel and ticket bundles — which include daily re-entry — through Jampack, while camping and parking passes are available separately.
Produced by Danny Wimmer Presents, one of the largest independent festival producers in the U.S., the Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival has become a cornerstone of the rock festival circuit.
Earlier this year, DWP reaffirmed its dedication to Columbus by extending its partnership with Historic Crew Stadium for another five years, ensuring the festival’s continuation through at least 2030. This long-term commitment not only secures the future of one of America’s most celebrated rock gatherings but also highlights its lasting impact on the region’s culture and economy.
