Located in the lively center of the Basque Country of Spain, Vitoria, Gasteiz (Alava) is a city that has a secret which the historic streets of the city whisper to everyone in summer. It is not only the famous green rings or the medieval quarter that attract the crowds, it is the raw, live, electric energy of the Azkena Rock Festival (ARF). How can a festival that has gone for more than twenty years still not being an event but rather a pilgrimage of those who are crazy about rock & roll in all its glorious forms?

In 2002 ARF came out of a sheer passion for the sounds of stinging guitars and anthems that have become timeless. It took a niche in the Spanish festival scence. Whereas other festivals will feature the latest trend, well, Azkena goes right back to the roots, bringing together bands from the rocks rebellious history and at the same time showing the alternative musical voices that are going to a big part of the future. This uncompromising stand for what is real has elevated the festival from a small local passion project to the most beloved musical event in Spain and one that is known worldwide.

Located in the Mendizabala venue home, the festival takes place at a spot that really feels as if it is both intimate and spacious, yet it is very conveniently close to the city center. From the Basque sky and all the way down, the community spirit really gets to be shared. In the crowd, you will see the mix of Spanish, Basque, and English since the audience is made up of the locals, and also the ones who have come from different parts of Spain and even from abroad. It is the language of rock that had them all unite. This is the point where the fans who have known the band for years come together with the ones who have just found out about it, and the excitement of the music is only equaled by the kindness of the people.

Looking at the list of those who have performed there is like looking through the pages that are kept in the temple of rock music: the wild scream of Iggy & The Stooges, the power of The Who that fills stadiums, the lyrical genius of Bob Dylan, the unforgettable Kiss spectacle, and the poetry delivered through punk by Patti Smith. The festival has also shaken to the sound of Queens of the Stone Age, Pearl Jam, Social Distortion, and Alice Cooper and is considered part of the tradition of the city. One can tell a story from each of the names, and ARF's legacy as a whole has been enriched by every show.

And it keeps going. The 2026 installment looks like it will be another incredible chapter, mixing classic legends and top current artists as the fans have got used to. The already announced lineup alone can make a music fan go crazy: the dramatic theatrical rock of Alice Cooper will be back, the explosive garage, rock energy of The Hives will set the stage on fire, and the unyielding punk, country spirit of Social Distortion will touch hearts deeply.

In addition to this, the legendary band Sugar will be performing for the first time since 1993 their reunion is going to be a monumental event. Moreover, with the highly praised Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit delivering their moving lyrics, this is only the start of an amazing lineup.

Dont forget saving the dates June 18, 19 and 20, 2026 in your calendar. ARF, happening during that perfect summer weekend just before the season starts to cool off, is a final, intensely high momenta chance to get lost in the music, find a like, minded crowd, and keep the rock & roll spirit alive. In Vitoria, Gasteiz, it is not just a festival; it is a return to ones roots.