Hellfest's Most Iconic Looks: From Sunflowers to Santas, Festival-Goers Unleash Their Inner Characters

CLISSON, France – Hellfest Open Air, one of Europe's premier metal festivals, once again proved to be a vibrant canvas for self-expression, with attendees showcasing an array of imaginative and often surprising costumes. Beyond the intense music, the festival grounds transformed into a spectacle of creativity. Among the standout ensembles were a trio of friends adorned in giant sunflower costumes, complete with flowerpot skirts. "It's a concept we saw on a video game, a sunflower that plays metal," one explained, demonstrating a headbanging move. Another couple, celebrating their recent marriage, embraced a whimsical theme, arriving dressed head-to-toe in yellow rubber duck outfits. "We got married last Saturday, and it was a festival theme, so we thought, let's come to Hellfest for a big festival," they shared, holding their beer steins. A woman with intricate braids and a steampunk-inspired outfit described her attire as a "protection outfit," incorporating vulture feathers and a piece crafted by a "witch friend" from Brazil. Another festival-goer, sporting an inflatable unicorn, humorously recounted a "slam" incident that required a repair from the Red Cross, emphasizing the costume's resilience. Even Santa Claus made an appearance, with a group of friends donning full red suits. "This is the one day of the year Santa Claus gives us time off," one Santa declared, adding, "The rest of the year, we spend making presents for the little boys and girls. We work hard for that." They enthusiastically proclaimed, "This is heavy metal Christmas! Hellfest! Ho ho ho!" From men dressed as Disney princesses and a Native American character to a fan sporting a meticulously crafted, brightly painted skull mask with pink feathers – a replica of Limp Bizkit guitarist Wes Borland's helmet, made via 3D printing and hand-painted – the festival was a testament to the attendees' dedication to their unique identities. The diverse and often humorous costumes added an extra layer of spectacle to the already electrifying atmosphere of Hellfest.