The best in rock and national music are arriving in Villena this week. The town has prepared extensively, and this Wednesday, August 9, the rock legends festival opens, followed next week by Tailed Lizard at the local sports center. The mayor of Villena, Fulgencio Cerdan, spoke about the two festivals, thanking the organizers and the City Council for their commitment to development and cultural life.
The 16th Legends edition runs from August 9 to 12 and features more than 60 performances. Standout acts include the American megaset, performing in Spain for the first time this year; Welsh band Bullet for My Valentine; and KK Downing, a founding member of Judas Priest, presenting as a special guest with Michael Schenker, a renowned guitarist. The energy across the lineup promises a diverse mix of classic rock, metal, and contemporary sounds that appeal to a wide audience.
American heavy metal standout Megadeth is highlighted as a key draw, alongside other notable appearances that accentuate Villena’s role as a premier festival destination. The festival program reinforces the city’s capacity to host international-level acts, drawing fans from across the region and beyond. In short, the event calendar reflects a clear aim to deliver high-caliber performances and memorable experiences for attendees.
From August 17 to 19, the Tailed Lizard Festival brings a vibrant slate of groups including Zoo, Mafalda, Auxili, La Fúmiga, Ciudad Jara, Alademoska, La Moda, La Pegatina, La Mala Rodríguez, Barricade, Los Chikos del Maíz, Boycott, Macaco, and Desakato, among others. The program promises a rich cross-section of genres and performances across multiple venues, creating a lively festival atmosphere throughout the city.
Supporter Mark Rubio urged residents and visitors to enjoy these outstanding events, noting that around 14,000 people are expected at each festival. His estimate underscores the significance of the two festivals for Villena and for the regional cultural calendar, highlighting the impact on local commerce and tourism.
Paula Garcia, Tourism Consultant, pointed out that information brochures from the department detail program schedules, venue locations, and stages. These guides also include practical tourist information, restaurant recommendations, and transportation options, helping attendees plan their visit. As a new feature, Villena will extend visiting hours during the festival period, opening roughly from 11:00 to 14:00 for those who wish to catch a glimpse of the performances and soak in the festive ambience.
Event managers and organizers are reminded that these festivals represent a level of excellence that Villena has come to expect. The city embraces two major events of international standing within a single calendar year, reinforcing its cultural strength and welcoming a broad audience with carefully curated lineups and engaging programs that resonate well beyond local borders.
In summary, the two festivals in Villena showcase a strong commitment to music, community engagement, and regional vitality. With robust planning, diverse lineups, and thoughtful visitor services, the events stand as a highlight of the summer calendar, drawing music fans, families, and travelers to enjoy a series of memorable performances in a vibrant city setting.