Sick New World is set to come back in 2026 after a disastrous 2025, and it looks like we know who’s headlining the whole shindig! Footage of a fan speaking to System Of A Down frontman Serj Tankian during a signing has surfaced online, during which Tankian confirms the band will be there in 2026. So clearly things are getting back to nü-metal and away from the more mainstream rock stuff.
Fans who caught System Of A Down‘s massive stadium run this summer noticed familiar animated mascots from past Sick New World line-ups appearing on venue screens. That, coupled with a new signup portal at sicknewworldfest.com, has stoked speculation that the festival is gearing up for a return – so none of this is exactly shocking, either.
The 2025 edition of Sick New World had promised to expand beyond its nü-metal core with headliners Metallica and Linkin Park reportedly commanding $5 million guarantees each, but the economics proved unsustainable. The plug was officially pulled in November 2024.
At the time of its cancellation, Sick New World organizers offered the following statement: “It is with great disappointment that we announce that Sick New World will no longer take place in Las Vegas on April 12, 2025.”
“Despite our best efforts, we’ve encountered unforeseen circumstances that we are unable to overcome for next year’s show. we extend our heartfelt thanks to all the dedicated Sick New World fans who had made plans to join us for another cultural celebration of hard rock, goth, alternative, and heavy music. please stay tuned for further and future information regarding Sick New World.”
“Tickets purchased directly from Front Gate tickets will be automatically refunded to the original method of payment in as little as 30 days.”
Enter your information below to get a daily update with all of our headlines and receive The Orchard Metal newsletter.
