This was Mad Cool Festival 10th anniversary
Four days, over 200,000 attendees and another edition to remember
Mad Cool Festival 2026 brought its tenth-anniversary celebrations to a close with a fourth day worthy of such a special edition. A total of 48,000 people enjoyed an unforgettable finale featuring performances from Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, David Byrne, Pulp and The Black Crowes, alongside many other artists.
Rock and more classic sounds took centre stage during a final night that lived up to expectations and provided the perfect ending to four days of live music attended by more than 200,000 people.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds Deliver One of the Festival’s Most Emotional Performances
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds arrived as one of the biggest attractions of the final day of Mad Cool Festival 2026 and delivered an impeccable performance.
Darkness, intensity and exceptional sound came together on stage in a concert led by a magnetic Nick Cave, who brought overwhelming power to every song.
Backed by a precise band that remained completely in tune with his every movement, the artist elevated the performance to an almost spiritual level. Classics such as “O Children” and “Red Right Hand” resonated with particular force before an emotional closing rendition of “Into My Arms”, one of the most memorable moments of the day.
Pulp Reunite with Madrid Three Decades Later
Madrid and Pulp reunited three decades later, with their connection proving as powerful as ever.
Jarvis Cocker took to the stage with effortless confidence, bringing all his charisma and experience to an elegant and distinctive production. The concert unfolded as a journey full of contrasts, taking the audience from dancing to moments of genuine emotion.
Cinematic instrumental passages were combined with moments of great intensity and some of the British band’s most recognisable songs.
David Byrne Unites Music and Visual Language
One of the most carefully crafted productions of the evening came from David Byrne. Music, movement and visual language worked together as a single piece in a precise, original and characterful performance.
The American artist created a setlist that connected with his most nostalgic fans, revisiting some of the most iconic songs by Talking Heads, the band he once fronted.
The Orange Stage audience experienced one of the day’s most intense moments during “Psycho Killer”, which became one of the highlights of the final night.
The Black Crowes Fill the Sunset with Rock and Roll
The Black Crowes delivered a sunset performance filled with pure rock and roll, driven by a powerful sound and a succession of memorable riffs.
Chris Robinson’s unmistakable voice, perfectly matched by the guitar playing of his brother Rich Robinson, led a performance overflowing with rhythm and energy.
Fully aware of the connection they share with their audience, the band drew heavily from their most iconic catalogue and brought the Region of Madrid Stage to life.
Kasabian Turn Their Mad Cool Return into a Celebration
Following their previous appearance at the festival in 2018, Kasabian returned to Mad Cool with a performance that lived up to expectations.
The British band delivered a succession of hits that transformed the festival site into a huge celebration, with Sergio Pizzorno acting as master of ceremonies in front of a fully committed audience.
Songs including “Club Foot”, “Fire”, “Underdog” and “L.S.F.” sparked some of the most intense moments of the day.
Jalen Ngonda and Matt Berninger Open the Final Day
Jalen Ngonda was responsible for opening the final day of Mad Cool Festival 2026. His distinctive voice, supported by an impeccable band, transported the audience back to the soul music of the 1960s and 1970s.
Shortly afterwards, Matt Berninger took over with an immersive sound and magnetic stage presence. The singer-songwriter combined tracks from his solo career with songs by The National, once again demonstrating his strength and personality as a live performer.
Nina Kraviz and Richie Hawtin Bring Techno to The Loop
The final day also gave a prominent place to techno in its purest form.
Nina Kraviz and Richie Hawtin brought the energy of the club to The Loop by Iberdrola with sets defined by precision, intensity and complete command of the decks.
Spain’s electronic scene was represented by AEREA, who delivered a live performance full of personality, and Madrid DJ Luxi Villar. Together, they completed an outstanding electronic programme.
Mad Cool Talent and Mad Cool DJ Talent Complete the Line-up
The Mahou Cinco Estrellas and Mahou Reserva stages completed the final day with a selection of artists worthy of such a special occasion.
Portugal’s Bad Tomato and Malaga band Break The Senses, winners of Mad Cool Talent by Vibra Mahou, were responsible for energising the audience from the early hours with two rock-driven performances.
As throughout the rest of the festival, both stages hosted a diverse and internationally focused programme featuring artists such as Persia Holder, TTSSFU, The Reytons, Overpass and Supermodel*.
The festival’s closing sets came from Yulie and KSAL, representatives of Mad Cool DJ Talent by Vibra Mahou. Their two powerful sessions brought the tenth-anniversary celebrations to a fitting conclusion.
Mad Cool Strengthens Its Social Commitment
Once again, Mad Cool Festival established itself as a leading musical and cultural event in Madrid, attracting both national and international audiences and creating a space where creativity, art and diversity remained at the heart of the experience.
Throughout the festival’s four days, Aspacia and Fundación EddyG led the Support Point, which offered information and professional assistance to anyone who needed help in relation to any form of violence.
These spaces remained open until the festival site closed and provided a range of activities and support resources.
Mad Cool Festival would also like to thank everyone who contributed to the Charity initiative.
All funds raised through the symbolic charity fee applied to guest tickets and accreditations will be donated to Hospital Universitario La Paz. The contribution will support research into childhood oncology and the development of advanced therapies for paediatric cancer treatment.
This initiative reinforces the festival’s social commitment and its aim to create a positive impact beyond music.
Thanks to Institutions, Teams and Partners
The organisers of Mad Cool Festival would like to express their gratitude to all the organisations and institutions involved for their commitment and dedication throughout the event.
The festival would particularly like to thank Madrid City Council, the Community of Madrid, the Government Delegation, the Local Police, the Guardia Civil and the National Police.
Mad Cool would also like to recognise the work of the Villaverde district cleaning service, whose contribution is essential to the successful running of the festival.
This gratitude also extends to all sponsors and partners who help make the Mad Cool Festival experience possible and allow it to continue growing each year.
Thank You for Being Part of Mad Cool Festival’s Tenth Anniversary
An edition as special as Mad Cool Festival’s tenth anniversary could only have been made possible through the enthusiasm, energy and commitment of everyone who forms part of the festival.
The organisers would like to thank all the artists for their trust, dedication and decision to choose Mad Cool’s stages to share their music.
Above all, Mad Cool would like to thank the audience for their enthusiasm, attitude and respect throughout every concert. The way the public experiences the festival is what gives the Mad Cool spirit its meaning.
Mad Cool Festival 2026 closes another edition with the emotion of everything experienced and the certainty that every day, every song and every encounter has now become part of its history.
Four days, over 200,000 attendees and another edition to remember
Mad Cool Festival 2026 brought its tenth-anniversary celebrations to a close with a fourth day worthy of such a special edition. A total of 48,000 people enjoyed an unforgettable finale featuring performances from Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, David Byrne, Pulp and The Black Crowes, alongside many other artists.
Rock and more classic sounds took centre stage during a final night that lived up to expectations and provided the perfect ending to four days of live music attended by more than 200,000 people.
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds Deliver One of the Festival’s Most Emotional Performances
Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds arrived as one of the biggest attractions of the final day of Mad Cool Festival 2026 and delivered an impeccable performance.
Darkness, intensity and exceptional sound came together on stage in a concert led by a magnetic Nick Cave, who brought overwhelming power to every song.
Backed by a precise band that remained completely in tune with his every movement, the artist elevated the performance to an almost spiritual level. Classics such as “O Children” and “Red Right Hand” resonated with particular force before an emotional closing rendition of “Into My Arms”, one of the most memorable moments of the day.
Pulp Reunite with Madrid Three Decades Later
Madrid and Pulp reunited three decades later, with their connection proving as powerful as ever.
Jarvis Cocker took to the stage with effortless confidence, bringing all his charisma and experience to an elegant and distinctive production. The concert unfolded as a journey full of contrasts, taking the audience from dancing to moments of genuine emotion.
Cinematic instrumental passages were combined with moments of great intensity and some of the British band’s most recognisable songs.
David Byrne Unites Music and Visual Language
One of the most carefully crafted productions of the evening came from David Byrne. Music, movement and visual language worked together as a single piece in a precise, original and characterful performance.
The American artist created a setlist that connected with his most nostalgic fans, revisiting some of the most iconic songs by Talking Heads, the band he once fronted.
The Orange Stage audience experienced one of the day’s most intense moments during “Psycho Killer”, which became one of the highlights of the final night.
The Black Crowes Fill the Sunset with Rock and Roll
The Black Crowes delivered a sunset performance filled with pure rock and roll, driven by a powerful sound and a succession of memorable riffs.
Chris Robinson’s unmistakable voice, perfectly matched by the guitar playing of his brother Rich Robinson, led a performance overflowing with rhythm and energy.
Fully aware of the connection they share with their audience, the band drew heavily from their most iconic catalogue and brought the Region of Madrid Stage to life.
Kasabian Turn Their Mad Cool Return into a Celebration
Following their previous appearance at the festival in 2018, Kasabian returned to Mad Cool with a performance that lived up to expectations.
The British band delivered a succession of hits that transformed the festival site into a huge celebration, with Sergio Pizzorno acting as master of ceremonies in front of a fully committed audience.
Songs including “Club Foot”, “Fire”, “Underdog” and “L.S.F.” sparked some of the most intense moments of the day.
Jalen Ngonda and Matt Berninger Open the Final Day
Jalen Ngonda was responsible for opening the final day of Mad Cool Festival 2026. His distinctive voice, supported by an impeccable band, transported the audience back to the soul music of the 1960s and 1970s.
Shortly afterwards, Matt Berninger took over with an immersive sound and magnetic stage presence. The singer-songwriter combined tracks from his solo career with songs by The National, once again demonstrating his strength and personality as a live performer.
Nina Kraviz and Richie Hawtin Bring Techno to The Loop
The final day also gave a prominent place to techno in its purest form.
Nina Kraviz and Richie Hawtin brought the energy of the club to The Loop by Iberdrola with sets defined by precision, intensity and complete command of the decks.
Spain’s electronic scene was represented by AEREA, who delivered a live performance full of personality, and Madrid DJ Luxi Villar. Together, they completed an outstanding electronic programme.
Mad Cool Talent and Mad Cool DJ Talent Complete the Line-up
The Mahou Cinco Estrellas and Mahou Reserva stages completed the final day with a selection of artists worthy of such a special occasion.
Portugal’s Bad Tomato and Malaga band Break The Senses, winners of Mad Cool Talent by Vibra Mahou, were responsible for energising the audience from the early hours with two rock-driven performances.
As throughout the rest of the festival, both stages hosted a diverse and internationally focused programme featuring artists such as Persia Holder, TTSSFU, The Reytons, Overpass and Supermodel*.
The festival’s closing sets came from Yulie and KSAL, representatives of Mad Cool DJ Talent by Vibra Mahou. Their two powerful sessions brought the tenth-anniversary celebrations to a fitting conclusion.
Mad Cool Strengthens Its Social Commitment
Once again, Mad Cool Festival established itself as a leading musical and cultural event in Madrid, attracting both national and international audiences and creating a space where creativity, art and diversity remained at the heart of the experience.
Throughout the festival’s four days, Aspacia and Fundación EddyG led the Support Point, which offered information and professional assistance to anyone who needed help in relation to any form of violence.
These spaces remained open until the festival site closed and provided a range of activities and support resources.
Mad Cool Festival would also like to thank everyone who contributed to the Charity initiative.
All funds raised through the symbolic charity fee applied to guest tickets and accreditations will be donated to Hospital Universitario La Paz. The contribution will support research into childhood oncology and the development of advanced therapies for paediatric cancer treatment.
This initiative reinforces the festival’s social commitment and its aim to create a positive impact beyond music.
Thanks to Institutions, Teams and Partners
The organisers of Mad Cool Festival would like to express their gratitude to all the organisations and institutions involved for their commitment and dedication throughout the event.
The festival would particularly like to thank Madrid City Council, the Community of Madrid, the Government Delegation, the Local Police, the Guardia Civil and the National Police.
Mad Cool would also like to recognise the work of the Villaverde district cleaning service, whose contribution is essential to the successful running of the festival.
This gratitude also extends to all sponsors and partners who help make the Mad Cool Festival experience possible and allow it to continue growing each year.
Thank You for Being Part of Mad Cool Festival’s Tenth Anniversary
An edition as special as Mad Cool Festival’s tenth anniversary could only have been made possible through the enthusiasm, energy and commitment of everyone who forms part of the festival.
The organisers would like to thank all the artists for their trust, dedication and decision to choose Mad Cool’s stages to share their music.
Above all, Mad Cool would like to thank the audience for their enthusiasm, attitude and respect throughout every concert. The way the public experiences the festival is what gives the Mad Cool spirit its meaning.
Mad Cool Festival 2026 closes another edition with the emotion of everything experienced and the certainty that every day, every song and every encounter has now become part of its history.
