Rockalhau Fest 2026 showcases the strength of Portuguese Heavy Music

The second edition of Rockalhau Fest will take place on 11 and 12 September 2026 at Parque de Lazer de Gondifelos, in Vila Nova de Famalicão, continuing its commitment to promoting the Portuguese underground rock and metal scene. Organised as a grassroots event, the festival combines an accessible format with a programme focused on emerging and established national acts, reinforcing its identity as a gathering point for heavy music enthusiasts.

Among the latest confirmations for Rockalhau Fest 2026 are Madmess, whose instrumental blend of psychedelic, stoner and progressive rock adds another dimension to a line-up centred on Portuguese talent. They join previously announced acts including Jesus the Snake, Idle Hand, Capela Mortuária, among others, reflecting the festival’s intention to showcase artists from different corners of the national rock and metal landscape while maintaining its underground identity.

Scheduled across two days in Gondifelos, Rockalhau Fest continues to strengthen its role as an independent platform for Portuguese heavy music. By bringing together bands representing styles that range from psychedelic and hard rock to punk, doom and extreme metal, the festival offers a programme that highlights the diversity of the country’s underground scene. The inclusion of Madmess further broadens that musical spectrum, reinforcing the event’s commitment to promoting established and emerging national acts in an environment centred on live performance and community.

Formed in Porto in 2017, Madmess have steadily established themselves within Portugal’s contemporary heavy psychedelic rock scene. The trio combines elements of stoner rock, progressive rock and psychedelic music, drawing inspiration from the sounds of the late 1960s and 1970s while developing a modern instrumental approach. Following the release of their self-titled EP in 2019 and the full-length album Rebirth in 2021, the band expanded its international presence with performances at several European festivals and showcase events. Their most recent album, The Third Coming (2025), reflects a continued evolution in songwriting and production, reinforcing Madmess’ position as one of Portugal’s most internationally active heavy psychedelic rock acts.