Bulgaria’s premier metal and rock festival Hills of Rock returns to Plovdiv Rowing Canal from 24th to 26th July 2026. This will be a major milestone for one of Eastern Europe’s most powerful and respected heavy music events with legendary artists whose influence has shaped world music history alongside contemporary leaders defining the future of heavy music.

This edition arrives at a pivotal moment for Bulgaria. With the country officially joining the Eurozone, announcing a digital nomad visa, and rapidly emerging as one of Europe’s fastest-growing festival and cultural destinations, Hills of Rock stands as a symbol of Bulgaria’s expanding presence on the global music and tourism map, and is easily accessible from all over the world.

Known as The City of Seven Hills, Plovdiv is one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and it blends Roman ruins, Ottoman heritage and a vibrant contemporary arts scene. Each summer, it transforms into a cultural hotspot and Hills of Rock has become a cornerstone of that transformation.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of Plovdiv’s iconic Rowing Canal, Hills of Rock 2026 promises three explosive days of world-class live music in a truly unique open-air setting. The vast canal and surrounding parkland create a natural amphitheatre that makes for a striking contrast between raw heavy sound and the historic beauty of one of Europe’s oldest living cities.

From Marilyn Manson’s dark theatrical provocation and Godsmack’s chart-dominating hard rock legacy, to Electric Callboy’s genre-defying modern metal explosion, the 2026 lineup reflects the full spectrum of heavy rock music past, present, and future.

Fans can also expect the legendary punk attitude of Sex Pistols Featuring Frank Carter, the crushing groove metal of Lamb of God, the gothic majesty of Paradise Lost, the emotional intensity of Deafheaven, and the rising power of new-generation acts such as Northlane, Vended, and Orbit Culture. More artists will be announced soon.

Festival goers can enhance their experience by staying in the official Hills of Rock camping area, located in the immediate vicinity of the festival site and offering full amenities and a true community atmosphere for fans travelling from across Europe and beyond.

For more information, visit hillsofrock.com and follow the festival on official social media channels @hillsofrock

LINE UP 

24 July
Marilyn Manson
Of Mice & Men
Vended

25 July
Godsmack
Black Label Society
Nothing More
Karen Dio

26 July
Electric Callboy
Lamb of God
Nevermore
Paradise Lost
Deafheaven