Rock In Rio Lisboa confirm 2026 dates, announce Linkin Park as first headliner

Rock In Rio Lisboa have confirmed plans to return to the Portuguese capital next summer, for two more weekends jam-packed with incredible music. What’s more, they’ve confirmed that their first headliner will be none other than nu-metal legends Linkin Park, who’ll be returning to play their first show in Portugal in 11 years, after playing the fest three times (in 2008, 2012 and 2024) previously. 

Next year’s edition will double as the festival’s 11th edition, and will follow on from their last year’s event, which saw huge names such as Ed Sheeran, Doja Cat and The Jonas Brothers all perform in Parque Tejo. The 2026 festival will - as ever - take place across two weekends, and is scheduled for 20th to 21st and 27th to 28th June 2026. 

“We are very pleased to announce Linkin Park as the first major headliner for Rock in Rio Lisboa 2026,” the festival’s Executive Vice-President Roberta Medina has said. “The band has an emotional and historic connection with the festival - having performed at several editions, delivering unforgettable nights, and being one of the most requested bands by our fans. They are one of the biggest bands in the world, with tremendous relevance in music history. Choosing Rock in Rio Lisboa to be part of their world tour on this return to the stage reinforces the scale and prestige of our festival, which is established as one of the most significant in Europe. 

“More than just a major name on the lineup, this announcement marks the start of a strategic journey that goes far beyond music. Rock in Rio Lisboa takes place only every two years and has become an unmissable destination on the international circuit of major events - a true hub of culture, sustainability and innovation that projects Portugal onto the world stage as a creative, inspiring and emotionally significant country.”

What’s more, the festival have also launched their new Road to Rock in Rio project, which promises to host a series of different activations in Portuguese and European cities over the next year, in the lead up to the event. 

Tickets for Rock In Rio Lisboa are on sale now, with more headliner news expected soon. In the meantime, though, read our review of last year’s festival below.