Foo Fighters 2026 Tour: Complete Guide to the Take Cover Stadium Tour

Foo Fighters 2026 Tour: Rock Legends Return With Epic Stadium Shows

When are Foo Fighters touring in 2026? The rock legends just dropped some electrifying news that has fans everywhere scrambling for their calendars. Dave Grohl and the band have officially announced the Take Cover Tour 2026, marking their triumphant return to North American stadiums with Queens of the Stone Age in tow. After a period of renewal and transformation, these classic rock artists are ready to deliver the sonic onslaught that only Foo Fighters can bring.

Foo Fighters performing live
Image Credit: Matt Cardy

The Big Announcement: Take Cover Tour 2026

Where is Foo Fighters playing in 2026? The answer is sweeping across North America in the most spectacular fashion imaginable. This classic rock news has sent shockwaves through the music world. The band revealed their plans in late October 2025, confirming 12 massive stadium dates beginning in August 2026. This marks their first major stadium run since the enormously successful Everything or Nothing at All tour of 2023-2024.

The Take Cover Tour represents more than just another concert series. It symbolizes a new chapter for the band following significant changes and challenges. These shows promise the maximum volume euphoria that Foo Fighters have become legendary for delivering. Stadiums from coast to coast will shake with the thunderous power that only these rock icons can unleash.

What makes this tour particularly special is the timing. After a series of intimate surprise club shows and international dates, the band is ready to take things to the next level. The stadium format allows them to connect with thousands of fans simultaneously, creating those unforgettable moments that become part of rock history. Additionally, the band has hinted that more dates may be added, so this initial 12-show run might just be the beginning.

Meet the New Powerhouse: Ilan Rubin

Who is the new drummer for Foo Fighters? Ilan Rubin has officially taken his place behind the kit, bringing a fresh energy that has reinvigorated the entire band. Rubin’s pedigree is absolutely impeccable. He spent years as Nine Inch Nails’ drummer and holds the distinction of being the youngest-ever Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee at just 32 years old.

The drummer swap between Foo Fighters and Nine Inch Nails created one of 2025’s most interesting plot twists. Josh Freese, who had been touring with Foo Fighters since 2023, departed the band in May. In an unprecedented move, Freese then joined Nine Inch Nails, effectively trading places with Rubin. This kind of exchange is virtually unheard of in classic rock history.

Rubin made his official debut with the band at an intimate show in San Luis Obispo, California, in September 2025. The performance featured an epic 25-song setlist that included deep cuts rarely performed live. Dave Grohl introduced him to the crowd with enthusiasm, calling him “the most badass motherfucker” and officially welcoming him to the Foo Fighters family. The chemistry was immediately apparent, and fans left that show knowing they had witnessed something special.

The transition has been seamless, according to those who have seen the new lineup. Rubin brings his own style while respecting the band’s legacy. His technical prowess and creative approach have opened up new possibilities for reimagining classic Foo Fighters songs like “Everlong”. Dave Grohl himself has called working with Rubin an “incredible blessing” that has reinvigorated the band’s creative process.

Complete 2026 Tour Dates and Venues

Are Foo Fighters touring in 2026? Absolutely, and here’s where you can catch them. The tour kicks off in early August and runs through late September, hitting some of North America’s most iconic sports venues. Each location has been carefully selected to accommodate the massive production and ensure optimal sound quality for tens of thousands of fans.

DateCityVenue
August 4Toronto, ONRogers Stadium
August 6Detroit, MIFord Field
August 8Chicago, ILSoldier Field
August 10Cleveland, OHHuntington Bank Field
August 13Philadelphia, PALincoln Financial Field
August 15Nashville, TNNissan Stadium
August 17Washington, D.C.Nationals Park
September 12Fargo, NDFargodome
September 15Regina, SKMosaic Stadium
September 17Edmonton, ABCommonwealth Stadium
September 20Vancouver, BCBC Place
September 26Las Vegas, NVAllegiant Stadium

The Regina, Saskatchewan stop is particularly noteworthy. Mosaic Stadium hasn’t hosted a concert since 2019 when Garth Brooks performed there. The venue’s management has struggled to attract major events, making this Foo Fighters show a significant moment for the city. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas finale at Allegiant Stadium promises to be an absolutely massive celebration to close out the tour.

Four Canadian cities made the cut, demonstrating the band’s strong connection with their northern fans. Toronto opens the entire tour, setting the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable summer. The western swing through Canada includes Edmonton and Vancouver, two cities with passionate rock audiences who always show up ready to rock.

How to Get Your Tickets

When do Foo Fighters tickets go on sale? Mark your calendars for Friday, October 31, 2025, at 10:00 AM local time. That’s when the general public sale begins through Ticketmaster. However, dedicated fans have several opportunities to secure tickets before the general sale through various presale options.

The Newsletter Artist Presale is the earliest opportunity. If you were already subscribed to the Foo Fighters mailing list by October 22, 2025, you can access tickets starting Tuesday, October 28 at 10:00 AM local time. This presale runs until Thursday, October 30 at 10:00 PM local time. Make sure your Ticketmaster email matches your newsletter subscription email.

If you missed the newsletter deadline, there’s still hope. The General Artist Presale opens Wednesday, October 29 at 10:00 AM local time. You can sign up for this presale through the band’s official website up until Sunday, October 26 at 11:59 PM PT. This gives latecomers a fighting chance to grab great seats before the general public.

Given the band’s history of selling out stadium shows, securing presale access is highly recommended. Their previous Everything or Nothing at All tour sold over 862,000 tickets and grossed more than $103 million. These numbers demonstrate the incredible demand for Foo Fighters live performances. Don’t wait until the general sale if you can help it.

Queens of the Stone Age: The Perfect Support Act

Who is opening for Foo Fighters in 2026? Queens of the Stone Age will support on all dates except the September 12 show in Fargo. This pairing represents a beautiful convergence of rock history and genuine friendship. The relationship between Dave Grohl and Josh Homme stretches back over three decades and includes some of the most celebrated collaborations in modern rock.

Their connection began in 1992 when Grohl first saw Kyuss, Homme’s pre-QOTSA band, perform in Seattle. Blues for the Red Sun became Grohl’s soundtrack that summer. Fast forward to 2002, and Grohl was behind the drums for most of Queens of the Stone Age’s breakthrough album, Songs for the Deaf. That album became a cornerstone of 2000s rock and cemented their creative partnership.

The two have continued collaborating throughout the years. They formed the supergroup Them Crooked Vultures alongside Led Zeppelin’s John Paul Jones. Grohl returned to play drums on parts of QOTSA’s 2013 album …Like Clockwork. They’ve co-headlined festivals and tours together, most notably the 2017 Cal Jam festival and multiple South American dates in 2018.

Dave Grohl’s statement about having Queens on the tour was deeply personal. He spoke of sharing “some of my life’s most rewarding musical moments with my dear friend, Josh.” He described their bond as one that “goes far beyond the sound we’ve made together.” This isn’t just a tour package; it’s a celebration of friendship and mutual respect between two of rock’s most important figures.

Additionally, Mannequin Pussy and Gouge Away will join select dates, adding even more firepower to the lineup. The Fargo show on September 12 is the only date without Queens of the Stone Age, but still promises an incredible night of rock and roll.

New Music: Asking for a Friend

What is Foo Fighters new song called? “Asking for a Friend” dropped simultaneously with the tour announcement, giving fans a taste of what’s to come. This track marks the band’s third new single of 2025, following “Today’s Song” which celebrated the band’s 30th anniversary in July. The new music signals that Foo Fighters aren’t just touring on past glories but are actively creating fresh material.

The song showcases a decidedly darker melodic approach compared to recent releases. It builds from hypnotic opening verses into impassioned refrains of “What is real? I’m asking for a friend…” The energy and intensity ratchet up throughout, culminating in a breakneck finale that ends with a throat-shredding “Or is this the end?” It’s vintage Foo Fighters but with a contemporary edge.

Dave Grohl described the track as “a song for those who have waited patiently in the cold, relying on hope and faith for their horizon to appear.” He continued, explaining it’s about “searching for ‘proof’ when hanging by a wish until the sun shines again.” This thematic content resonates deeply given what the band has been through recently.

The integration of Ilan Rubin’s drumming brings new dimensions to the sound. His background with Nine Inch Nails adds industrial-strength power while maintaining the melodic sensibility that Foo Fighters fans expect. Grohl specifically mentioned the joy of “reimagining versions with the incredible blessing of the one and only Ilan Rubin behind the drums.”

This new single is just one of “many songs to come,” according to Grohl. While there’s no official word on a new album, the steady stream of singles suggests significant creative momentum. Fans attending the 2026 tour can expect to hear “Asking for a Friend” alongside classics, creating a perfect blend of old and new. Speaking of which, Foo Fighters recently appeared on the Madden NFL 26 soundtrack, keeping their music in the cultural conversation.

What to Expect From the Shows

What can fans expect from a Foo Fighters concert in 2026? Based on their recent surprise club shows, prepare for an absolutely stacked setlist spanning their entire 30-year catalog. The intimate San Luis Obispo show featured 25 songs, including rarely performed deep cuts like “Exhausted” from their 1995 debut album and “Winnebago,” a pre-Foo Fighters composition that Grohl wrote while still in Nirvana.

The stadium shows will likely feature a similar commitment to giving fans their money’s worth. Classic anthems like “Everlong,” “Learn to Fly,” “My Hero,” “The Pretender,” and “Best of You” are virtual certainties. However, Grohl has mentioned the band spent time “staring at a list of 30 years worth of songs to brush off,” suggesting some surprises are in store.

Ilan Rubin’s presence opens up new possibilities. His technical abilities allow the band to tackle songs they might not have attempted with previous lineups. The fresh perspective also means they’re reimagining classic tracks, giving longtime fans new reasons to experience songs they’ve heard hundreds of times. Consequently, even the most familiar material will have new life breathed into it.

The production values will be massive. Foo Fighters are known for creating spectacle at stadium shows, with elaborate lighting, massive video screens, and sound systems that can shake buildings. Nevertheless, they maintain the raw energy and connection that made them famous in smaller venues. It’s this combination that makes them one of the last great American rock bands capable of filling stadiums.

Expect lengthy performances, potentially pushing three hours when you include Queens of the Stone Age. Both bands are known for their generous approach to setlist length. The combination creates a full evening of rock and roll that justifies the ticket price many times over. Furthermore, the bands’ genuine friendship means the energy will be authentic and celebratory rather than just professional courtesy.

Dave Grohl’s Heartfelt Message to Fans

Why are Foo Fighters touring again? Dave Grohl addressed this question in a lengthy, emotional statement accompanying the tour announcement. He wrote extensively about the band’s recent return to performing, starting with their surprise show in San Luis Obispo. That performance reminded them why they’re “forever devoted to doing this Foo Fighters thing.”

Grohl spoke about the process of reuniting as a band. They faced the task of brushing off 30 years of songs and reimagining them with Rubin. More importantly, they reconnected with their amazing fans, remembering that “we would not be here without them.” This acknowledgment of the fan relationship runs throughout his statement, emphasizing gratitude rather than entitlement.

The statement included a poetic reflection on seeing Mount Fuji during the band’s recent Japan tour. Grohl used the mountain as a metaphor for patience, waiting, and the reward of persistence. He wrote about how the mountain appeared after days of cloudy skies, creating a perfect parallel to the band’s own journey back to the stage.

Regarding the new music and tour, Grohl emphasized hope and renewal. He described the band as having “the most solid core” and noted that “the sun is finally rising over the horizon.” These aren’t just platitudes but seem to reflect genuine feelings about the band’s current state. After challenging times, there’s optimism and energy flowing through the organization.

The message concluded with an invitation: “Let’s watch this mountain come into view together.” It’s a call to fans to be part of this journey, to share in the experience collectively. This inclusive approach has always been part of Foo Fighters’ appeal, making fans feel like participants rather than just spectators. Indeed, Grohl’s words set the tone for what promises to be a triumphant return to stadiums.

The Journey Back to the Stage

How long has it been since Foo Fighters toured? The band’s last major tour was the Everything or Nothing at All trek of 2023-2024, which supported their Grammy-nominated 11th album, But Here We Are. That album held special significance as their first release following the tragic death of drummer Taylor Hawkins in March 2022. The loss devastated the band and their fans worldwide.

Following Hawkins’ death, the band took time to process their grief. They held two massive tribute concerts in his honor, featuring dozens of guest musicians celebrating Taylor’s life and legacy. Eventually, they returned to the studio with Dave Grohl handling drums himself for But Here We Are, creating a deeply personal and emotionally raw album.

When touring resumed, Josh Freese stepped in as touring drummer. Freese is a legendary session musician who has worked with everyone from Nine Inch Nails to Devo to Guns N’ Roses. He toured with Foo Fighters throughout 2023 and into 2024 before parting ways with the band in May 2025. The split was described as amicable, though Freese admitted to being “shocked and disappointed.”

The band faced additional challenges in 2025. Dave Grohl made a personal announcement about fathering a child outside his marriage, leading to a period where the band stepped back from the public eye. They canceled one remaining festival appearance while Grohl focused on his family. This period of reflection seemed to be necessary for everyone involved.

The return began quietly in July 2025 with the release of “Today’s Song” on the band’s 30th anniversary. They followed this with surprise club shows in California and the East Coast, building momentum gradually. The Asia tour in October showed they were ready for larger venues again. Now, the Take Cover Tour represents the full return to form that fans have been hoping for.

Throughout their career spanning three decades, Foo Fighters have submitted 395 headline reports to Pollstar’s Boxoffice. They’ve sold 6.9 million tickets and grossed $530.4 million over their touring history. These numbers demonstrate their staying power and consistent draw. However, the upcoming tour feels different, more about renewal and rebirth than just continuing a successful formula. Rock legends like these continue to shape the landscape of classic rock for new generations.

🎸 Essential Foo Fighters Music Collection 🎡

Prepare for the Take Cover Tour by diving deep into Foo Fighters’ legendary catalog. These essential albums capture the raw power and melodic genius that have made them rock icons.

🎀 The Colour and the Shape

The breakthrough masterpiece that defined a generation

This 1997 album launched Foo Fighters into the stratosphere of rock greatness.

Features the timeless anthem “Everlong” and showcases the band’s perfect balance of aggression and melody.

Essential listening before experiencing these songs live in massive stadiums during the 2026 tour.

πŸ”₯ Wasting Light

Grammy-winning analog perfection

Recorded entirely on analog tape in Dave Grohl’s garage, this 2011 masterpiece won multiple Grammys.

Contains powerful tracks like “These Days” and “Walk” that regularly appear in their live shows.

Hear the raw energy that translates perfectly to their legendary stadium performances.

πŸ’Ώ But Here We Are

The emotional journey following Taylor Hawkins’ passing

Their 2023 Grammy-nominated album represents healing and resilience through music.

Dave Grohl played drums himself on this deeply personal record.

Essential context for understanding the band’s current chapter with new drummer Ilan Rubin.

🎸 Greatest Hits

Every essential anthem in one powerful collection

The perfect primer featuring all the songs you’ll sing along to at the Take Cover Tour.

Includes classics from “Monkey Wrench” to “The Pretender” spanning their entire career.

Ideal for new fans or anyone wanting the complete experience before seeing them live.

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The Legacy Continues

What makes Foo Fighters so important to classic rock? They represent the bridge between grunge’s raw authenticity and modern rock’s stadium-filling power. Dave Grohl emerged from Nirvana’s shadow to create something entirely his own, building a band that has consistently delivered for 30 years. Their influence on contemporary rock cannot be overstated.

The Take Cover Tour 2026 isn’t just another concert series. It represents resilience, friendship, and the enduring power of rock and roll. After facing tremendous personal and professional challenges, the band is coming back stronger than ever. The addition of Ilan Rubin brings fresh energy while respecting everything that came before.

For fans, this tour offers a chance to be part of rock history. These massive stadium shows create communal experiences that transcend the music itself. Tens of thousands of people singing “Everlong” together creates memories that last lifetimes. Moreover, knowing the journey the band has taken to get here adds depth and meaning to every note played.

The partnership with Queens of the Stone Age elevates the entire experience. Two generations of rock excellence on the same bill, united by genuine friendship and mutual respect. It’s a celebration of what rock music can be when artists prioritize authenticity over commerce and relationships over transactions.

As tickets go on sale and fans plan their pilgrimages to these shows, excitement is building across North America. The summer of 2026 will belong to Foo Fighters and their legion of devoted fans. From Toronto’s opening night through the Las Vegas finale, the Take Cover Tour promises to be one of the defining concert experiences of the decade.

Classic rock isn’t just about nostalgia. Bands like Foo Fighters prove the genre continues to evolve while maintaining its core values. Raw emotion, powerful performances, and genuine connection with audiences remain paramount. This tour will remind everyone why rock and roll still matters, why thousands gather in stadiums to experience live music together.

So mark your calendars, set your alarms for ticket sales, and prepare for something special. Whether you’re a longtime fan who’s been there since 1995 or someone discovering the band through their recent singles, the Take Cover Tour welcomes everyone. Dave Grohl’s invitation stands: let’s watch this mountain come into view together. The sun is rising, and Foo Fighters are ready to rock.

author avatar
Charlie Gillingham
🎢 Retired, recharged, and rocking harder than ever β€” I’m Charlie Gillingham. Founder of Classic Rock Artists, I live for legendary riffs, timeless tracks, and the stories that keep them alive. Let’s turn it up and keep the classics rolling!

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