Iron Maiden to headline Rock Imperium 2026 in Cartagena

The Rock Imperium Festival in Cartagena has confirmed that Iron Maiden will headline its fifth edition, taking place from 3 to 5 July 2026 at Parque de la Cuesta del Batel. The British icons join the festival as part of their Run For Your Lives World Tour, marking a major booking for the port city.

Organisers say Iron Maiden will perform on Saturday 4 July with Sabaton headlining Sunday 5 July. Expected capacity is between 20,000 and 25,000 spectators per day. Tickets go on sale on 24 September at 12:00, starting at €195 + fees, released in three tranches (2,000; 8,000; and the remainder up to full capacity); single-day tickets will depend on how quickly passes sell out.

Regional culture minister Carmen Conesa and Cartagena mayor Noelia Arroyo highlighted the festival's role in cultural tourism: organisers estimated a €15 million economic impact in 2024 and more than 50,000 visitors. The regional government has contributed €375,000 under the Festivales Región de Murcia programme.

The announced lineup pairs legacy acts with contemporary names: Trivium, Lacuna Coil, Queensrÿche, The Gathering (celebrating 30 years of 'Mandylion'), H.E.A.T, Crimson Glory, Japanese harmonic metal group Hagane, experimental Dogma and Cartagena natives Triskel, among others.

Organisers say securing Iron Maiden signals the festival's rapid rise on the international metal calendar and strengthens Cartagena's profile as a pilgrimage site for rock fans. For many attendees, this may be a rare chance to see the band live in the near future, as Iron Maiden have indicated they will not tour again until at least 2028.