Organizers say Armstrong Metalfest was most successful ever

Metalfest made a triumphant return to Armstrong this past weekend.

The heavy metal music event featuring 28 bands was held July 15 and 16 at the Hassen Arena with many of the attendees camping at the IPE Fairgrounds.

“Armstrong Metalfest 2022 (AMF) was the most successful event we have ever had,” said a statement from the organizers. “This year’s attendance was the closest we’ve ever come to selling out. We also sold out of 2022 merchandise and sold out the beer gardens. After postponing the event for two years, we still got it!”

The event was making its return after two years of pandemic-related cancellations. It’s been put on in Armstrong since 2009 by West Metal Entertainment and Armstrong Metalfest.

Attendance figures were not provided but in past years, the festival has attracted up to 700 “metalheads.”

Organizers are thanking the volunteers, artists, sponsors, media outlets and various companies that helped make the event run smoothly.

“We’re more excited than ever to keep growing to make this the best experience for everyone,” said the statement.

Last weekend’s music featured headliners Enterprise Earth from Spokane, Wash., along with Vancouver’s Zimmers Hole performing for the first time in Armstrong and the return of festival alumni Neck of the Woods.

AMF also featured a special performance from Kelowna’s Omnia Nihil (formerly Apollyon) in memory of beloved vocalist Matt Depper who suddenly passed away this past January.

For more info, visit ​Armstrongmetalfest.ca.