2000s Heavy Metal Band Shares Exciting Music Festival News

French heavy metal powerhouse Gojira has just shared thrilling news for fans worldwide: they will perform at the Inkcarceration Festival 2026 in Mansfield, Ohio. 

Taking to Instagram, the band posted the official festival poster and wrote, “We will see you in July at Inkcarceration Festival in Ohio, USA.”

The three-day festival runs July 17-19 at the historic Ohio State Reformatory grounds, known for its unique combination of music, tattoo artistry and culture. 

This year’s lineup features over 65 bands, including Disturbed, Papa Roach, Hollywood Undead, Bad Omens, The Used, Sleeping with Sirens, Limp Bizkit and Motionless In White. Fans can expect a weekend packed with a wide spectrum of metal, rock, hardcore and alternative sounds.

Dan Smith, Associate Director of the Ohio State Reformatory, expressed excitement, saying, “Inkcarceration continues to attract fans from across the globe, and the 2026 lineup promises to deliver an unforgettable experience,” according to Music MXDWN.

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Gojira’s 2026 Plans

This year is shaping up to be a huge year for Gojira. The band, formed in 1996 in Ondres, France, celebrates its 30th anniversary as a group of friends turned global metal icons.

The lineup: Joe Duplantier (vocals/guitar), Mario Duplantier (drums), Christian Andreu (guitar), and Jean-Michel Labadie (bass) has remained unchanged since 2001.

Gojira’s eighth studio album is also scheduled for release this year. In addition, the band is commemorating the 20th anniversary of their breakthrough album, From Mars to Sirius (2005). While they won’t perform the album front-to-back, fans can anticipate surprises like a massive flying whale prop, honoring the iconic track “Flying Whales”. 

Their 2026 festival dates also include headlining Rock Fest in Cadott, Wisconsin (July 16-18) alongside Limp Bizkit and The Offspring, as well as European stadium shows with Metallica starting in May.

Beyond music, Gojira has long been recognized as environmental warriors. Their lyrics often touch on ecological themes, from ocean conservation to climate change, with tracks like “Amazonia” and “Silvera” becoming anthems for the planet. The band has donated to organizations like Sea Shepherd and supported indigenous rights in the Amazon, reinforcing their reputation as socially conscious metal icons.

With the combination of festival energy, new music and anniversary surprises, Gojira’s performance at Inkcarceration promises to be a highlight of the 2026 metal calendar.

Related: Famed ’90s Nu Metal Band to Headline Rock Fest 2026 With Gojira and More