Bloodstock reveals Thursday night plans

Fans at last year's Bloodstock
(Image credit: Katja Ogrin - Getty)

Bloodstock organisers have revealed the entertainment for those arriving at the site on Thursday, August 9.

The UK festival will take place at Catton Park, Derbyshire, on August 9-12, with artists including Judas Priest, Gojira, NightwishFozzy, Doro PeschOrphaned LandAt The GatesAlestorm, Cannibal Corpse and Conjurer all previously confirmed.

Now five bands have been announced for the Sophie Lancaster Stage on the Thursday night, providing live music for those arriving early to pitch their tents.

Arkona, Bloodshot Dawn, Skiltron, Fire Red Empress and Hundred Year Old Man will all play, setting the tone for the weekend of musical mayhem.

Meanwhile, Bloodstock’s Metal 2 The Masses grand finals are now underway, supporting regional venues and giving local bands the opportunity to grab a spot on the festival’s Newblood Stage. Find a list of dates below.

Get everything you need to know about Bloodstock on our festival page.

Scott Munro
Louder e-commerce editor

Scott has spent more than 30 years in newspapers, magazines and online as an editor, production editor, sub-editor, designer, writer and reviewer. Scott joined our news desk in the summer of 2014 before moving to the e-commerce team in 2020. Scott maintains Louder’s buyer’s guides, scouts out the best deals for music fans and reviews headphones, speakers, books and more. He's written more than 11,000 articles across Louder, Classic Rock, Metal Hammer and Prog and has previous written for publications including IGN, the Sunday Mirror, Daily Record and The Herald, covering everything from daily news and weekly features, to video games, travel and whisky. Scott's favourite bands are Fields Of The Nephilim, The Cure, New Model Army, All About Eve, The Mission, Cocteau Twins, Drab Majesty, Marillion and Rush.