Get ready, Philadelphia — because Metallica is returning with a vengeance. On Friday, May 23, 2025, the M72 World Tour rolls into Lincoln Financial Field for a powerful, headbanging celebration of metal and mayhem. With the legendary band bringing their signature No Repeat Weekend format, this isn’t just another stop — it’s a full-on metal takeover of the city.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering Metallica’s thunderous sound, this guide will give you everything you need to prepare for the show, grab the best merch, find your way to the venue, and live the experience like a true metalhead.
The No Repeat Weekend: A Unique Tour Format
One of the most innovative concepts Metallica has ever introduced is the No Repeat Weekend, and Philly gets to experience it firsthand. The idea is simple but powerful: two completely different setlists over two nights — May 23 and May 25.
For fans who’ve been to dozens of Metallica shows, this concept offers a fresh, exclusive experience every single night. If you’re going on May 23, you’ll hear a setlist that won’t repeat any of the songs played two nights later. That means double the surprises, double the thrills.
“No Repeat Weekend isn’t just about the songs — it’s about the story each night tells.”
This makes each show a must-see, especially if you want to be part of Metallica history.
Event Details: When, Where & What to Know
Before you head out with your black tee and boots, here are the essentials:
- 📍 Venue: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
- 📅 Date: Friday, May 23, 2025
- ⏰ Doors Open: 6:00 PM (approximate, based on Shazam’s event listing)
- 🎤 Supporting Acts: Limp Bizkit and Ice Nine Kills
- 🎸 Metallica Takes Stage: Between 8:50 PM – 9:20 PM
- 🎵 Estimated Set Duration: 2 hours and 4 minutes
This show will be Metallica’s 19th performance in Philadelphia, and their first return since 2018. The band has a storied relationship with this city, and this show promises to rekindle every bit of that fire.
Meet the Lineup: Metallica, Limp Bizkit, Ice Nine Kills
Sure, Metallica is the main event — but don’t sleep on the supporting acts. They’ve curated a lineup that’s as diverse as it is explosive.
🔥 Limp Bizkit
- The kings of early 2000s nu-metal are back and rowdy as ever.
- Expect classics like Rollin’, Break Stuff, and plenty of crowd interaction.
💀 Ice Nine Kills
- Known for their theatrical horror-metal, they’ll bring a darker edge to the night.
- Their stage presence and horror film-inspired songs (The American Nightmare, Hip to Be Scared) are visually intense and musically vicious.
These two openers set the tone for the night and make it a full-scale hard rock showcase.
How to Score Tickets & VIP Access
If you haven’t grabbed your tickets yet, time is ticking. Standard and VIP packages are available from multiple verified sources.
🎟 Where to Buy
Tickets originally went on sale September 27, 2024, so availability may vary.
💎 VIP Packages
Metallica fans who want more than a nosebleed seat can choose from exclusive VIP options, including:
- Snake Pit Passes (closest to the band in the stage center)
- Early entry
- Commemorative merch
- Special viewing platforms
- Private bar/lounge access
“If you’re going to do Metallica, do it loud, do it proud, and do it VIP.”
M72 Pop-Up Shop: What, When & Where
Part of what makes the M72 Tour unique is the exclusive pop-up shop experience in every city — and Philadelphia is no exception.
📍 Location
- Corner of West Shunk St & South 23rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19145
🗓 Hours of Operation
- Thursday, May 22 – Saturday, May 24: 10 AM – 7 PM
- Sunday, May 25: 10 AM – 6 PM
Expect long lines, limited quantities, and some of the most exclusive Metallica gear you’ve ever seen.
Online Merch Shop: ShopMerchGame
What to Buy: Exclusive Merch Breakdown
Inside the M72 Pop-Up, Metallica fans will find a merch haven. Many of these items are Philly-exclusive and limited to one per customer daily, so shop early.
🔥 Merch Must-Haves
- Splatter Vinyl: “72 Seasons” limited edition
- Philly-Specific Poster: Custom screen-printed by featured artists
- Event Tee: Only available in Philadelphia
- Exclusive Skateboard Deck
- Dixxon Flannel Collaboration
- Yeti Branded Gear
“You’re not just buying a shirt, you’re buying a piece of tour history.”
The #M72 Interactive Experience
The M72 tour isn’t just about the music — it’s about community and discovery. That’s why Metallica is rolling out:
🗺 #M72 Interactive Map
- Explore Metallica landmarks around Philadelphia
- Social-media-ready, shareable fan experience
🎟 Fan Cards
Available at the pop-up shop, these collectible cards can win you prizes, including:
- Snake Pit Passes
- Signed merchandise
- Backstage opportunities
This adds a layer of fun that goes beyond the concert itself.
Setlist Forecast: What Songs to Expect
While the May 23 show’s exact setlist is a secret (because of the No Repeat format), based on other 2025 M72 shows, here’s what fans can likely expect.
🎸 Classics
- Enter Sandman
- Master of Puppets
- Seek & Destroy
- For Whom the Bell Tolls
🆕 “72 Seasons” Tracks
- Lux Æterna
- If Darkness Had a Son
- Too Far Gone?
See recent setlists via Setlist.fm or check out the Ticketmaster blog’s setlist preview.
“Every riff, every scream, every beat — it’s a story told in distortion.”
Behind the Stage: Show Format & Production
Metallica doesn’t just play — they engineer an experience. The M72 Tour features a ring-shaped stage called the in-the-round setup, giving fans 360° views from any angle.
🐍 Snake Pit Access
This ultra-exclusive fan zone is located inside the stage ring. Only available via VIP or contest, it’s as close as you can get — short of joining the band.
Stage Design & Timing
- Lights, lasers, pyrotechnics
- Screens and immersive visuals
- Start time around 8:50 – 9:20 PM
- 2+ hours of nonstop performance
This format brings a level of intimacy and immersion that few stadium tours can match.
How to Get There: Transportation & Parking Tips
Getting to Lincoln Financial Field in South Philly requires planning ahead.
🚗 Driving & Parking
- Parking fills up by 5:30 PM
- Use lots around Pattison Avenue
- Prepay via the stadium’s official site
🚆 Public Transit
- SEPTA Broad Street Line to NRG Station (short walk from venue)
- Ride-sharing options available, but expect surge pricing
🏨 Hotels Nearby
For travel guides, check VisitPA.
Final Checklist & Insider Tips
Before you raise your horns in the air, here’s your final pre-show rundown:
✅ Must-Bring Items
- ID and digital/mobile tickets
- Portable phone charger
- Layered clothing (May evenings can be chilly)
- Sunscreen for early merch lines
- Water bottle (if permitted)
⚠️ What Not to Bring
- Professional camera gear
- Outside food/drinks (check venue policies)
- Large bags
“This isn’t just a concert — it’s a pilgrimage.”
Don’t Miss This Historic Metallica Night
The Metallica M72 World Tour May 23 2025 Philadelphia show is shaping up to be one of the most memorable metal events of the decade. With a massive setlist, jaw-dropping visuals, exclusive merchandise, and a fan experience that pushes beyond the norm, there’s no excuse to miss it.
Get your tickets, plan your route, hit the pop-up shop early — and prepare to have your soul shredded (in the best way possible) by Metallica.
Sources:
Metallica Official
Ticketmaster
Vivid Seats
Setlist.fm
CBS News
Lincoln Financial Field
VisitPA