The countdown is on! In just a matter of weeks South Africa will host its biggest metal festival ever, with a delectable selection of international as well as local bands ready to set the stage alight. With an absolutely phenomenal lineup that has something for everyone, this year's festival is marked by numerous highlights, guaranteeing a debaucherous party for all, and is a definite must for all who wish to witness South African Metal history in the making!

Overcoming obstacles such as changes in venue prompted by religious protests, Witchfest have nevertheless triumphed, with the new venue being set in a picturesque polo club located on the outskirts between Pretoria and Johannesburg, with shuttle services being available from the nearby Lanseria airport. Witchfest will take place between 3[sup]rd[/sup] and 5[sup]th[/sup] April 2015, with campers being able to set up as early 2[sup]nd[/sup], which will undoubtedly see everyone starting the celebrations off. What better way to spend Easter weekend? And at least time off from work shouldn't be too much of a problem either.

This festival is an absolute must-see for diehard fans of the Brutal Death Metal genre, with leviathan bands such as CANIBAL CORPSE, DECAPITATED, and ABORTED set to storm the stage. For the more Melodic Death Metal fans, prepare yourselves to be blown away by colossal acts such as KATAKLYSM and SEPTICFLESH. And if you're more Core side of things, CARNIFEX and HATEBREED are not to be missed. Added to this fine mix is a dose of ALESTORM, because what is a party without some Pirate Metal? And if you particular predilections lie towards the Blacker end of the spectrum, brace yourself for the infernal onslaught courtesy of BELPHEGOR. For all those fortunate enough to witness FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE's tour of South Africa a few years back, you already know what a phenomenal performance these Italians deliver. If this lineup isn't amazing enough, Symphonic Metallers EPICA are sure to put the final cherry on top.

And what would a South African Metal festival be without a selection of some of the finest local bands? Veterans of the South African scene have some old favourites to look out for, including bands such as ING, MIND ASSAULT, THE WARINSANE, BILE OF MAN, THEATRE RUNS RED, TERMINATRYX, and of course the all-female Thrashers JUNKYARD LIPSTICK. German Black Metal fans may also recognise WILDERNESSKING after their show at the Under The Black Sun Festival near Berlin at the end of last year.

But that's still not all! Witchfest is also packing some seriously cool highlights, including a meet and greet tent as well as merchandise stalls where you can pick up some gear from your favourite bands. And for those who just wanna relax and catch up with your friends, there's also a designated braai area. The campsite of course comes with showers, toilets, water stations, and a medic tent. Also on offer is a wide range of food stalls guaranteed to cater to variety of tastes and budgets. And after all the drunken shenanigans, be sure to check out the lost and found tent for anything that you might have lost along the way.

Still got questions? Check out the Witchfest site (https://www.witchfest.co.za/), or even better, download the awesome Witchfest app that has all the info you need for an absolutely kick-ass festival. See you at this epic party!