Leave the wellies at home and get your festival fix abroad next summer by jetting off to the sun-drenched streets of Lisbon on June 20, 21, 27 and 28. Rock In Rio Lisboa 2026 will soon be back to transform the city into a musical hub, promising an epic lineup which features everything from vibrant, joy-filled pop to the irresistibly cathartic, scream-your-lungs-out rock.
Now, legendary British singer-songwriter Rod Stewart has been announced as the newest headliner to take to the stage next summer, giving fans a chance to experience his hit songs in the spectacularly scenic city.
What is the Rock in Rio festival?
Rock In Rio is a multi-genre festival originally from Brazil. It was first created by Roberto Medina who dreamed it up in 1985, when the country was taking its first steps towards democracy. The dream became a reality – and a success – and it celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2025. Since that very first festival over a decade ago it has expanded internationally; this year they also celebrated the 20th anniversary of its Lisbon iteration.
Don’t be fooled by the name, it’s not just rock music you can expect. The festival is known for its diverse lineup, spanning a variety of genres including pop, electronica, hip-hop and many more. Past performers have included global stars such as Madonna, Amy Winehouse, The Rolling Stones, Black Eyed Peas and Justin Bieber.
Who will be performing at Rock In Rio Lisboa 2026?
June 27-28
As you might have guessed, Rod Stewart has now joined the lineup as headliner on Saturday, June 27 – the dedicated day for ‘Legends of Rock’. Fresh off his ‘Legends slot’ set at Glastonbury, the shaggy-haired pop rock icon will treat his loyal fans to a trip down music memory lane with his gravelly vocals and repertoire of chart-topping hits from rock ballads to disco-leaning earworms.
Across the weekend, you can also enjoy performances from pioneering Portuguese rock bands, including Xutos & Pontapés, GNR, UHF, and Táxi – as well as alt-pop artist Syro.
June 20-21
It has also been confirmed that American singer-songwriter Katy Perry will be performing on June 20. The ‘Teenage Dream’ and ‘I Kissed A Girl’ singer will be delighting her fans, no doubt, with her usual infectious energy and a setlist of chart-topping hits.
Brazilian DJ and singer Pedro Sampaio is also set to perform on June 20. Known for dance-inducing hits such as “Dançarina” and “Pocpoc”. Other names that have been recently announced include musical duo Calema, who deliver a dynamic mix of afrobeat, reggae and hip-hop, and Portuguese Indie band Napa. There are also reportedly many more surprises yet to come.
Linkin Park will be taking to the stage on June 21. Following the tragic passing of the iconic frontman Chester Bennington, the band has reformed with Emily Montgomery taking up lead vocals – living up to the legacy of her predecessor with strong, gritty vocals. That same day, you could also find yourself singing your lungs out to ‘I Predict A Riot’ with Kaiser Chiefs, going ‘Insane in the Brain’ for hip hop group Cypress Hill and embracing the ‘Darkside’ with magnetic singer songwriter Grandson.
Where is the festival located?
Rock In Rio unfolds in Parque Tejo, a sprawling green space in Lisbon found near the mouth of the river Trancã. In less than a three-hour flight from London, you could be donning your best festival outfit to enjoy a memorable celebration of music, culture and diversity.
