PHOTOS: GREG VITALICH | On a chilly Saturday evening in Orange County, Ghost brought their Skeletour World Tour 2026 to the Honda Center in Anaheim, delivering a night of theatrical grandeur and demonic mastery that left fans of all ages wide-eyed and spellbound. With an incredible setlist spanning nearly 20 years, the Swedish rockers from Linköping proved once again why they are considered the most amazing live act in modern music today. The show was powerful, intimate, and highlighted the musical genius that we have come to know as Tobias Forge. Let the ritual begin!
From the moment the lights dimmed and the haunting strains of Jan Johansson’s “Klara Stjärnor” played over the speakers, the near-capacity Honda Center was immediately transformed into Southern California’s largest cathedral of rock. The crowd, a sea of face-painted fans and devil-horn salutes, erupted as Papa V Perpetua finally took the stage around 9:15 PM. Ghost’s signature blend of gothic theatrics and arena rock bombast was on full display, with elaborate stage props, pyrotechnics, and a light show that danced in perfect harmony with the music. The energy in the room was electric, a testament to Ghost’s ability to create an immersive experience that feels both intimate and massive.
The 21-song setlist was a carefully curated masterclass through Ghost’s demonic evolution, with highlights that showcased their versatility, showmanship, and connectivity with their incredibly loyal fanbase. Here are a few of my highlights from the show:
“Cirice” – This Grammy-winning track from 2015’s Meliora was a standout moment, with its haunting intro building into a thunderous crescendo. The band’s precision and Tobias Forge’s commanding presence as Papa V Perpetua made this performance one of my favorites of the evening.
“Majesty” – Another track from Meliora, this one highlighted the incredible creativity of Tobias Forge as he mysteriously ascended from the ashes into the ethos above the stage to oversee the ongoing ritual. His papal regalia looked 20’ tall if not more as fans’ jaws dropped in complete amazement during this fan favorite.
“Year Zero” – Few songs capture Ghost’s theatrical flair like this anthem from 2013’s Infestissumam. The crowd’s chants of “Hail Satan!” echoed through the arena, creating a communal moment of dark celebration. The accompanying visuals, featuring apocalyptic imagery and fiery effects, elevated the performance to a cinematic level that fans would never forget.
“He Is” – One of my favorite Ghost songs, it was a rare moment of tenderness in an otherwise fiery set. This demonic ballad showcased Forge’s vocal range and the band’s ability to craft deeply emotional moments that highlighted the connectivity with their fans. The audience swayed in unison under a canopy of lights that replicated the Ghost Cross, creating a galaxy of stars in the darkened arena.
The show’s near 2-hour progression felt like a well-crafted narrative, beginning with the ethereal “Peacefield” and “Lachryma” from their latest album Skeletá, and building through heavier, riff-driven tracks like “Majesty.” The mid-set inclusion of “Devil Church” and “Darkness at the Heart of My Love” provided a moment of reflection before the band launched into the high-energy finale. The encore, featuring “Mary on a Cross,” “Dance Macabre,” and “Square Hammer,” was a triumphant conclusion that left devotees clamoring for more.
Technically, the performance was nearly flawless. The sound mix was balanced, allowing every instrument to shine without overpowering Forge’s vocals. The lighting design was a visual beast, perfectly synchronized with the music to heighten the show’s theatricality. I also loved the fact that there were NO cell phones allowed during the show. It allowed all fans to immerse themselves in the moment, which, in my opinion, took the show to a whole new level. If there were any critique that I could make, it would be that the band’s omission of “Call Me Little Sunshine” from their setlist. It’s one of my favorite Ghost tracks by far, and its mysterious absence had me scratching my head.
And I would be remiss not to call out the amazing folks at OCVibe and the Honda Center for a job well done on Saturday evening. It’s not an easy task to manage 24/7 construction of what seems like a small city in the midst of a visit from a major headliner like Ghost, but they did it in fine form. Parking was a breeze, lines moved quickly, and personnel were so helpful amid controlled chaos. It’s so exciting to see OCVibe coming to life before our eyes, and it’s just a matter of time before this 100-acre entertainment district is finally complete in the heart of Orange County.
And a special shoutout to Marketing Director Erika Muir for all of her unwavering support of the press on Saturday night. Her perpetual smile and unmatched professionalism highlight why many consider her one of the best in this business. OCVibe is lucky to have her representing their incredible brand.
Ghost’s performance at the Honda Center on Saturday was a testament to their ability to blend music, theater, and spectacle into an unforgettable live experience. As the Skeletour World Tour 2026 nears its end, it’s clear that Ghost is not just a band but a phenomenon, captivating audiences with its unique brand of dark, melodic rock. For fans and newcomers alike, this was a night that will be etched in memory—a true celebration of the macabre and the magnificent. And now, we will all wait in anticipation for Papa V Perpetua and the possible next steps for Ghost. Will there be a new Papa? Is a hiatus on the horizon? Maybe these questions will be answered on Monday night in Los Angeles on the tour’s final ritual.
