One of the largest and oldest music festivals in the world, Rock in Rio, just announced its 2026 slate of headliners. The legendary festival – which was first held in 1985 – will feature an exciting lineup that includes British living legend Sir Elton John and K-Pop boy group sensation Stray Kids. The landmark music events are set to unfold over two weekends on September 4-7, 2026 and September 11-13, 2026.
The lineup was announced on November 26 in Rock in Rio’s social media pages. Elton John was the first headliner to be confirmed. The rock legend is slated to perform on September 7, 2026, bringing his timeless catalog to the Palco Mundo at Rio’s Cidade do Rock. It marks Elton’s long-awaited return to Brazil — and one of his rare major live shows since wrapping the “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” tour.
But the biggest buzz might belong to Stray Kids. In a first for the festival, the global K-pop powerhouse will headline the main stage on September 11, becoming the very first K-pop act to top the bill at Rock in Rio’s Brazilian edition. This feat represents a landmark moment, a bold signal that Rock in Rio is embracing new global sounds alongside established icons.
Festival founder Roberto Medina has teased more major names are coming — some of them exclusive to 2026 — and warned fans the city might run out of room as interest surges. Tickets go on sale via the Rock in Rio Card system starting December 9, giving early birds a shot at snagging a spot before tickets sell out.