The Azkena Rock Festival will celebrate its 25th edition on June 17, 18 and 19, 2027 in Mendizabala (Vitoria-Gasteiz). The idea is to “celebrate 25 years of rock and roll,” and the lineup will feature headliners such as Patti Smith, Bad Religion, Marilyn Manson, Slash, and Wilco.
The news of Marilyn Manson’s inclusion comes a day after the controversial announcement of his tour with Slipknot, which has disappointed some fans of both acts due to the abuse allegations Marilyn Manson has faced over the past years. Wikipedia traces the legal arc of his string of lawsuits and accusations, a genuine circus of cases dismissed, closed and, in some cases, reopened, in light of a new law in California.
The organizers defend Marilyn Manson as “the darkest and most theatrical counterpoint of late 20th-century rock” and state that “The Reverend” will unleash in Mendizabala his stage magnetism through challenging and distorted industrial metal, backed by a wild attitude and landmark works such as Antichrist Superstar.
Other artists performing at Azkena include Dave Alvin & The Guilty Ones, Beth Hart, Billy Talent, John García, Billy Bragg, Michael Monroe plays Hanoi Rocks, Rival Sons and The Waterboys, among many others, bringing the total to 60 artists.
The organization notes that Trashville will once again display the wild and unpredictable side of the festival and Mendizabala will debut “Strawhouse,” a new rustic stage that will host acoustic performances rooted in folk, country and blues.
The exclusive pre-sale for attendees of previous ARF editions and the general sale at promotional price are already available at azkenarockfestival.com. The Bono Gaztea (for those under 24) and the Bono Cuadrilla (6 passes at a reduced price) can also be purchased. The option to buy in installments remains, and admission will be free for those under 14. The festival will maintain the bus service to reach and leave the festival, offering organized trips from nearby cities such as Altsasu, Arrasate, Barakaldo, Bilbao, Burgos, Donostia, Errentería, Getxo, Irún, Miranda de Ebro, Pamplona, Portugalete, Rentería and Zarautz.
