Rock in Rio Lisboa completely changed my outlook on festivals. I've attended many festivals over the years, but this European event stood out for its scale, inclusivity, and unforgettable performances.
An Unforgettable European Debut
Arriving in Lisboa, I checked into the VIP Grand Hotel, which added a touch of luxury to the trip. Although I missed weekend one featuring Katy Perry and Linkin Park, weekend two more than compensated with a stellar lineup.
Over 330,000 people from more than 127 countries attended across both weekends, according to festival organisers. The event featured over 60 artists on four stages, delivering 52 hours of live music and entertainment.
Legends Day: Cyndi Lauper and Sir Rod Stewart
Cyndi Lauper, now in her 70s, delivered a powerful 11-song set including hits like "I Drove All Night" and "Time After Time." She told the crowd: "We look like a community of light and never forget that, we hold the light. No matter how freaking dark it gets." Her performance of "True Colours" was a crowd favourite.
Sir Rod Stewart, despite ongoing health issues, performed energetically on his One Last Time Tour. Opening with bagpipes, he ran through classics such as "Maggie May," "Do Ya Think I'm Sexy," and covers of Dolly Parton's "Jolene" and Tina Turner's "Proud Mary." He also voiced support for Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, exclaiming "F**k Putin," which drew cheers from the audience.
Community and Inclusion
The festival fostered a strong sense of community, with attendees from the UK, Portugal, Spain, and Brazil dancing and singing together despite language barriers. "Rock in Rio Lisboa made sure everybody was included," I observed, adding that the event promoted unity through music.
Rap Sunday and Other Highlights
Sunday featured rap acts including Rema, Central Cee, and headliner 21 Savage. While not a rap fan, I appreciated their talent; the crowd erupted when Rema and Central Cee took the stage.
I also interviewed Aston Barrett Jr. of The Wailers, son of original member Aston "Family Man" Barrett, discussing the pressure of continuing the band's legacy.
VIP Experience and Value
The VIP area, costing around €380 per day, offered unlimited food and drink, freebies, and a viewing platform with direct sight of the main stage. I noted that UK festivals could learn from this model.
Future of Rock in Rio Lisboa
Rock in Rio Lisboa will return in 2028, taking place on 17, 18, 24, and 25 June at Parque Tejo. Vice President Roberta Medina stated: "The Rock in Rio Lisbon of today has grown enormously... Our ambition goes beyond staging one of Europe's biggest music festivals. We want to showcase Lisbon and help position Portugal as one of the world's leading destinations for culture, tourism and entertainment."
I will definitely be returning in 2028.
