An Open Letter: The Time Has Come — page and Judas Priest Announce Epic Final Joint Tour – Dates and Cities Revealed…. 

In a monumental announcement that has sent ripples through the global metal community, Judas Priest has declared 2026 will mark their farewell to touring with a final world tour titled “One Last Ride”. This open-letter-type declaration encapsulates decades of legendary music, stagecraft, and love for their fans—as they prepare to bow out on their own terms.

Formed in Birmingham in 1969, Judas Priest helped forge the heavy metal blueprint with iconic albums such as British Steel, Screaming for Vengeance, and Painkiller. With soaring vocals by Rob Halford and driving twin‑guitar power from Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing, they shaped a genre and amassed a devoted fanbase across five decades. The announcement marks the end of their touring chapter—and a heartfelt thanks to those fans who have been there from the start.

Although the full itinerary remains flexible, Judas Priest have confirmed dates across Europe, North America, and select markets in Asia and Australia. Highlights include:
North America

• August 15, 2026 — Los Angeles, CA — Staples Center
• August 20, 2026 — New York, NY — Madison Square Garden
• August 25, 2026 — Toronto, ON — Scotiabank Arena
• August 30, 2026 — Chicago, IL — United Center

Europe & Beyond

• September 10, 2026 — London, UK — Wembley Stadium
• September 15, 2026 — Berlin, Germany — Waldbühne
• September 20, 2026 — Paris, France — AccorHotels Arena
• September 25, 2026 — Madrid, Spain — WiZink Center
• October 5, 2026 — Tokyo, Japan — Nippon Budokan
• October 10, 2026 — Sydney, Australia — Qudos Bank Arena

Some outlets hint at even broader routing—possibly including South America and Latin America—though specifics remain

The band promises a career-spanning setlist that blends beloved classics with rare deep cuts. Think “Breaking the Law,” “Living After Midnight,” “Painkiller,” “Electric Eye,” and “Metal Gods.” Fans might also be treated to nostalgic surprises and songs that haven’t featured live in years.

Production will be designed for maximum impact—expect explosive pyrotechnics, iconic cross-shaped light rigs, visual storytelling, and possibly surprise guest appearances celebrating the band’s

Rob Halford, in a moving video message, framed the tour not as a goodbye filled with regret but as a farewell filled with gratitude a

K.K. Downing, though retired from full-time touring since 2011, shared his emotional support for the goodbye tour—acknowledging its significance and the legacy it honors.

With over 50 million records sold and a 2022 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Judas Priest’s influence on heavy metal culture is indisputable.

Fans have already flooded social media—reminiscing, celebrating, and vowing to attend these milestone shows. Common sentiment among longtime followers: this will be the most emotional yet memorable tour yet.

Though the announcement centers on the 2026 dates—tickets will likely go on sale around May 2025, with dedicated fan‑club presales planned beforehand. Expect rapid sellouts and VIP bundles offering meet‑and‑greets, memorabilia, and premium experiences.

“An Open Letter: The Time Has Come” isn’t just a tour announcement—it’s a historic farewell from one of metal’s most respected and influential bands. With sweeping global dates, legendary setlists, theatrical production, and heartfelt gratitude, Judas Priest’s “One Last Ride” promises to be a crowning farewell to more than 50 years of music, rebellion, and connection. Get ready for a final salute to the steel‑shattering spirit of heavy metal.

Let me know if you’d like a breakdown of fan reactions from social media, VIP packages, or comparisons to other farewell tours like Iron Maiden or Metallica.