Bilbao BBK Live, one of Europe's most electrifying summer festivals, is revving up for a major milestone – its 20th birthday bash in 2026! Since its inception on the stunning slopes of Mount Cobetas back in 2006, this Spanish fiesta has become an unmissable event, drawing A-listers and emerging talent alike to its sun-kissed stages.
As the countdown begins for what promises to be a year to remember, with acts like David Byrne, Lily Allen, Calvin Harris, and Robbie Williams set to take centre stage, we look back on some of the most unforgettable performances from BBK Live's two-decade history. Chosen by the festival's production team, these highlights showcase the incredible diversity of music that has defined Bilbao BBK Live – a true reflection of its status as one of Spain's premier summer festivals.
One of the standout acts is The xx's 2018 headline set, which saw them riding high on the success of their third album, ‘I See You’. Their ‘Night + Day’ experience brought an otherworldly energy to Bilbao, with tracks like ‘Crystallised’ and ‘Angels’ weaving a spell over the crowd. Meanwhile, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds brought the house down on Saturday night in 2018, delivering a set packed with Oasis classics like ‘Wonderwall’ and ‘Half The World Away’, as well as his solo material.
Further back, Radiohead's 2012 appearance still sends shivers down the spine. As part of their ‘The King Of Limbs’ tour, Thom Yorke and co delivered a setlist that was both robust and unorthodox – think ‘Idioteque’ and ‘Pyramid Song’, plus an unexpected Neil Young cover to boot! The Hives' 2013 performance also stands out for its sheer bravado: the Swedish rockers refused to let a severe electrical storm dampen their spirits, carrying on with reckless abandon before the festival was temporarily halted.
More recently, Spanish DJ and producer John Talabot has cemented his status as an unofficial BBK Live resident – closing the Basoa Stage for five consecutive years in 2019-2023. His final turn in 2024 created a truly immersive dancefloor experience that will be remembered for years to come. These curated memories serve as a testament to the festival's ability to deliver unique and unforgettable musical experiences, solidifying its place in the European festival landscape.