A brand new rock festival is set to take flight in the heart of Wales, and it’s going to be loud. On Saturday, June 27, 2026, the historic grounds of Cardiff Castle will host the inaugural Blackbird Festival, headlined by global hard rock titans ALTER BRIDGE.
Presented as part of TK Maxx Presents Depot Live at Cardiff Castle, the event promises a monumental lineup, handpicked by the band themselves. Tickets go on general sale Friday, August 22 at 9:30am via blackbirdfest.com and Ticketmaster, with presales starting Tuesday, August 19 via depotlive.co.uk.
A Milestone Moment for ALTER BRIDGE
Launching their own festival marks a new chapter for ALTER BRIDGE — Myles Kennedy (vocals/guitar), Mark Tremonti (guitar/vocals), Brian Marshall (bass), and Scott Phillips (drums) — who have spent over two decades cementing their status as one of rock’s most respected and consistent acts.
Returning to Wales for the first time in over seven years, Kennedy says the festival is a special thank-you to fans:
“We realised we haven’t played Wales in over seven years. To make up for lost time, we thought it would be cool to do something extra special. So with that said, we are stoked to announce The Blackbird Festival… it’s also a way to show our appreciation for the fans in Wales who’ve patiently waited for our return.”
The Line-Up
Joining ALTER BRIDGE as very special guests are the unstoppable Welsh legends SKINDRED. Known for their explosive mix of metal, reggae, punk, and unrivalled live energy, expect the Newport Helicopter in full flight when Benji Webbe leads his hometown crowd.
Also on the bill:
- Florence Black – Heavy-hitting Welsh trio bringing anthems laced with grit and swagger.
- Cardinal Black – Soul-infused rock with arena-ready melodies from one of Wales’s fastest-rising acts.
- + One More Act TBA – A final addition will be revealed soon.
More Than Just a Festival
The announcement comes ahead of ALTER BRIDGE’s new self-titled eighth studio album, set for release January 9, 2026 via Napalm Records. Produced by Michael “Elvis” Baskette, the album was recorded at 5150 Studios in California and Baskette’s Florida studio, promising the soaring melodies and thunderous riffs fans crave.
The record will arrive just in time for the band’s Spring 2026 UK & European headline arena run, building towards a triumphant summer at Cardiff Castle.
Ticket Information
- Presale: Tuesday, August 19 at 9:30am via Depot Live
- General Sale: Friday, August 22 at 9:30am via BlackbirdFest.com & Ticketmaster
- VIP Upgrades and tour details available at alterbridge.com
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ALTER BRIDGE Launch First-Ever Blackbird Festival at Cardiff Castle – June 27, 2026 @RockNews
