Upheaval Festival has announced a new wave of bands for its 2026 edition at Belknap Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan, set for July 17-18. POPPY, STORY OF THE YEAR, SET IT OFF, LANDMVRKS, and THOUSAND BELOW join a bill already featuring headliner PAPA ROACH alongside BILMURI, JINJER, and ZERO 9:36. The additions significantly strengthen an already diverse lineup that spans metalcore, nu-metal, hard rock, and the genre-defying territory that artists like POPPY occupy.
POPPY's inclusion is particularly notable. The multi-faceted artist has carved out a unique space in heavy music, blending industrial metal, nu-metal, and pop sensibilities in a way that has earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase that bridges the gap between mainstream pop audiences and heavy metal fans. Her 2020 album "I Disagree" was a watershed moment for genre-blending in heavy music, and her subsequent releases have continued to push boundaries.
The festival continues to establish itself as a premier summer destination for heavy music in the American Midwest, filling a niche that has existed since the decline of other regional festivals. Grand Rapids' Belknap Park provides an intimate yet spacious setting that enhances the festival experience, with the city's vibrant food and craft beer scenes offering additional attractions for traveling fans. The two-day format allows for a curated experience that balances established headliners with emerging acts, giving attendees exposure to the full spectrum of contemporary heavy music. Early bird ticket packages have already sold out, and organizers report that overall ticket sales are tracking well ahead of the 2025 edition at this stage.