Dream Theater has announced a significant change to their touring schedule, revealing they will not return to Europe and the UK in 2026 as previously promised. The progressive metal band shared the news in an official statement on Instagram.
The band addressed their decision to postpone their return to European audiences, explaining the reasoning behind the difficult choice.
“We know we promised we’d be back in 2026 with our full Parasomnia show, but sadly sometimes plans change,” the band stated. “After much discussion, after 2 European legs on our 40th Anniversary Tour in 2024 and 2025 (as well as EU tours the previous two years in 2022 & 2023 as well), we’ve made the hard decision to skip a return to EU/UK in 2026.”
Despite the cancellation, Dream Theater offered an alternative for fans eager to see their current show.
“We are currently on the final 3 weeks of our US Parasomnia/ACOS Tour, so there’s still time to come on over to the States to catch this show if you are so inclined,” they continued. “It really is an amazing show! And if we can’t bring it over to you, we at least wanted to give the heads up so you’d have the option of coming to us to catch it.”
The band concluded with a promise to return when their next tour cycle begins in either 2027 or 2028.
The Parasomnia tour has been a landmark event for Dream Theater, marking a significant milestone in the band’s history. JamBase reported that the 30-date U.S. run features the band performing their 16th studio album Parasomnia in its entirety. The tour also includes fan favorites and classic tracks such as A Change of Seasons and Metropolis, Pt. 2: Scenes from a Memory.
The album represents a historic reunion for the progressive metal icons. Prog Report noted that Parasomnia is the first album to feature the classic lineup since 2009. The lineup includes vocalist James LaBrie, guitarist John Petrucci, bassist John Myung, keyboardist Jordan Rudess, and the return of founding drummer Mike Portnoy, who rejoined the band in October 2023 after a 13-year absence.
The tour’s setlist has been praised for its comprehensive approach to the band’s catalog. Setlist.fm documented that recent performances have included the full live performance of Parasomnia acts I and II, often framed with classical music pieces and excerpts from iconic songs. The shows are followed by classic fan favorites and encores featuring tracks like Dead Poets Society.
The Parasomnia album was released in February 2025 and has been well-received by fans and critics alike. The tour kicked off in early September and runs through late October. The band is currently in the final weeks of their U.S. dates. Mike Portnoy’s return after 13 years has been a major highlight of 2025, positively impacting the band’s dynamics and performances throughout the tour.