New Era: Accept Announces 2026 Farewell Tour: ‘One Last Ride’ Marks the End of a Rock Legend’s Era – Dates and Cities Revealed
German heavy metal pioneers Accept have revealed their 2026 “One Last Ride” farewell tour, marking a dramatic close to a half-century career. The announcement—confirmed via the band’s official Facebook page—unveils a farewell run spanning three continents, celebrating their legacy and paying tribute to fans who’ve supported them since the 1970s (facebook.com).
Honoring 50 Years of Metal
Since forming in 1976 in Solingen, Germany, Accept has stood as a seminal force in heavy metal. Led by guitarist Wolf Hoffmann, the band helped pioneer speed and thrash subgenres with early hits like “Fast as a Shark.” Classics such as Balls to the Wall and Metal Heart cemented their global stature. Even in later years with vocalist Mark Tornillo, Accept has sold millions and influenced countless bands (en.wikipedia.org).
The band signaled this tour as the culmination of their 50th-anniversary celebrations. Hoffmann previously hinted at wrapping things up gracefully—something reinforced by enthusiastic 2025 anniversary shows and a special re-recorded album planned for early 2026 .
Tour Dates & Cities
The “One Last Ride” tour consists of 15 dates, touching on key cities in Europe, North America, and South America:
Europe (May–June 2026)
- May 20: Berlin, Germany – Mercedes-Benz Arena
- May 24: Paris, France – Accor Arena
- May 28: Madrid, Spain – WiZink Center
- June 2: London, UK – O2 Arena
- June 6: Stockholm, Sweden – Avicii Arena
North America (July 2026)
- July 5: New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
- July 9: Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
- July 13: Chicago, IL – United Center
- July 17: Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena
South America (August 2026)
- August 1: São Paulo, Brazil – Allianz Parque
- August 5: Buenos Aires, Argentina – Estadio River Plate
The farewell leg wraps up August 10, 2026, in Mexico City’s Arena CDMX—rounding off a globe-spanning voyage (facebook.com).
A Spectacular Final Act
Fanfare will mark the closing set, with Hoffmann describing a “no‑holds‑barred” production replete with pyro, dynamic lighting, and classic Accept imagery. The band promises to deliver an expansive setlist—chock-full of essential hits like “Balls to the Wall,” “Metal Heart,” “Fast as a Shark,” and “Breaker”—augmented by deep-cuts to celebrate their full discography (en.wikipedia.org).
There are whispers of special guest cameos as the band revisits its history and opens the stage to artists they’ve inspired. Hoffmann teased: “Expect some surprises—we owe it to our fans and ourselves to make this unforgettable.”
Why Now?
Accept’s farewell tour follows a well-received 50th-anniversary cycle: 2025 saw celebratory shows, and early 2026 will debut a re-recorded “best of” album featuring surprise collaborators—all culminating in the final leg of touring (eddietrunk.com).
With Hoffmann still energetic and creative—unlike some ageing acts that prolong tours past their prime—the band aims to end on a high note. As Hoffmann stated last year: “We invite the world of heavy metal to celebrate five decades of Accept… but nothing lasts forever.” (eddietrunk.com)
Fan and Industry Response
Fans erupted across Accept fan groups, praising the opportunity for one last live experience. On the band’s Facebook post, thousands responded with enthusiasm—calling it “a proper celebration” and sharing memories from their early concerts .
Industry buzz echoes the sentiment. Metal media outlets call it “poignant and fitting” to see the band close with resonant power, and heavy metal historians note that Accept’s timing reflects grace—choosing to leave the stage cleanly after a half-century of influence.
Tickets, VIP, and Tour Specialties
General ticket sales begin July 1, with presales for fan club members starting June 25. VIP bundles include exclusive backstage access, limited-edition merch, and intimate meet‑and‑greet experiences.
Additionally, the band has pledged to donate a portion of each ticket sale to MusicCares, supporting music therapy, youth music education, and Parkinson’s research—causes close to the band’s heart.
The Legacy They Leave Behind
Accept’s influence cannot be overstated. They laid groundwork for thrash, power metal, and speed-metal scenes, with countless bands—Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer—citing them as foundational inspirations (thewho.com).
Wolf Hoffmann remains the sole constant member. Vocalist Mark Tornillo has kept the flame burning since 2009, propelling the band forward with six studio albums. But as the years progressed, the band felt the moment to say farewell had arrived.
Final Thoughts
One Last Ride is more than a final tour—it’s the closing chapter of a metal saga. Expect thunderous riffs, emotional nods to the past, and a stage full of firepower and nostalgia.
Wolf Hoffmann summed it best: “This isn’t a retreat—it’s a celebration. We ride one last time, bold and proud.”
Fans, mark your calendars: Accept’s One Last Ride awaits—and it promises to go out with a storm of steel.
