Love, peace and tons of rock ’n’ roll — that spirit has defined the Lovely Days Festival since its very first edition in 2006, in Eisenstadt, Austria. Over the years, the event has grown into much more than a summer gathering. It has become a true institution, earning cult status among fans and securing a firm spot on the European festival calendar.
by Dimitris Zacharopoulos
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Esterházy Palace Park in Burgenland, the festival offers a unique blend of music history and natural beauty. The elegant baroque palace and its expansive green surroundings create an atmosphere that feels both relaxed and majestic. It is the perfect setting for a celebration of timeless music.
Lovely Days has built its reputation by bringing legendary artists from the 1960s and 1970s to the stage, giving audiences the rare chance to experience the pioneers of rock, blues and classic pop in an intimate yet powerful environment. Year after year, fans gather to relive the soundtrack of a generation — songs that shaped culture, defined eras and continue to inspire new listeners.
Lovely Days is a journey through time. It connects generations, uniting long-time devotees with younger fans who want to witness living music history. In the warm summer air of Burgenland, under open skies and surrounded by history, the spirit of classic rock lives on. But let’s see this year’s fantastic line-up!
This one-day classic rock/pop festival features the lineup of the “godfather of shock rock”, the one and only Alice Cooper, the melodic rock legends Foreigner, the prog/classic rock masters Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, the amazing blues/jazz rockers Colosseum, the incredible cover band Clearwater Creedence Revival, the wild things of rock n’ roll The Troggs and The Hans Theessink Band.
ALICE COOPER
Alice Cooper is one of the true legends of rock music. Since the early 1970s, he has shocked, entertained and inspired generations of fans with his dark image and powerful songs. Often called the “Godfather of Shock Rock,” he turned concerts into theatrical events, using props like guillotines, fake blood and dramatic costumes. But behind the horror style, there are great songs and unforgettable melodies. Albums like “Love It to Death”, “Killer” and “School’s Out” changed rock history. Songs such as “School’s Out” and “Poison” are still played everywhere. His voice, half-sinister and half-playful, became his trademark. Alice Cooper proved that rock can be dangerous, fun and smart at the same time. Decades later, he still performs with energy and passion. He is not just a shock rocker — he is a survivor, a showman and a true icon of rock ’n’ roll.
FOREIGNER
Foreigner are one of the most successful rock bands of the late 1970s and 1980s. Formed in 1976 by guitarist Mick Jones, the band created a perfect mix of hard rock power and emotional ballads. With the incredible voice of Lou Gramm, they delivered songs that are still loved today. Hits like “Cold As Ice”, “Hot Blooded”, “Urgent” and the timeless ballad “I Want to Know What Love Is” became radio classics all over the world. Their music is strong, melodic and full of feeling. They could rock hard, but they could also touch your heart. Foreigner sold millions of albums and filled huge arenas. Their sound helped define an era of classic rock. Even decades later, their songs remain powerful and unforgettable. Foreigner are a lasting part of rock history!
MANFRED MANN’S EARTH BAND
Manfred Mann’s Earth Band created a special place in rock history by mixing progressive rock, jazz touches and strong melodies. Formed in the early 1970s by South African keyboard player Manfred Mann, the band became known for its rich keyboard sound and thoughtful arrangements. They are especially famous for their powerful versions of Bruce Springsteen songs like “Blinded by the Light” and “Spirit in the Night”. “Blinded by the Light” became a number one hit and introduced the band to a worldwide audience. But beyond the hits, the Earth Band always aimed for something deeper, with long instrumental passages and meaningful lyrics. Their music feels atmospheric and intelligent, yet still very accessible. Manfred Mann’s Earth Band proved that rock can be both artistic and popular. Decades later, their songs continue to shine with emotion, energy and class.
COLOSSEUM FEAT. CHRIS FARLOWE, CLEM CLEMPSON, MARK CLARKE
Colosseum belong to the pioneers of progressive rock and jazz rock. Formed in the late 1960s, they brought together powerful musicians who were masters of their instruments. Each member was a strong soloist, yet together they created a tight, rich and adventurous sound. Their double live album “Colosseum Live” (1971) is still seen as a classic. It captures the energy, skill and passion that made the band special. Songs like “Lost Angeles” and the epic “Valentyne Suite” were examples of complex, elaborate rock music. In 2025, original members Chris Farlowe, Clem Clempson and Mark Clarke returned to the stage, proving that the spirit of Colosseum is still alive. With new material from their album “XI” and their classics, they continue to inspire fans. Colosseum are living legends of British rock.
CLEARWATER CREEDENCE REVIVAL
Clearwater Creedence Revival is a tribute band dedicated to honouring the legacy and music of the iconic American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). Formed by musicians passionate about recreating the authentic sound of CCR, Clearwater Creedence Revival performs faithful renditions of classic hits like “Bad Moon Rising”, “Proud Mary”, “Fortunate Son” and “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?”. The band captures the raw, Southern rock-infused energy and swamp rock style of CCR, bringing nostalgia to longtime fans while introducing the legendary music to new audiences. Known for their lively, engaging performances, Clearwater Creedence Revival focuses on preserving the timeless appeal of CCR’s music, staying true to the original band’s distinctive style, led by John Fogerty’s signature vocal and guitar sound.
THE TROGGS
The Troggs were one of the rawest and most exciting bands of the 1960s. Formed in southern England in 1964, they helped shape the sound of garage rock with simple chords, strong rhythm and bold attitude. Their biggest hit, “Wild Thing,” became a worldwide anthem, reaching number one in the United States and turning into a rock classic. Songs like “With a Girl Like You”, “I Can’t Control Myself”, and “Love Is All Around” showed their talent for catchy melodies and direct, emotional lyrics. Their music was loud, honest and full of energy. In many ways, The Troggs predicted the spirit of punk rock years before it arrived. From television appearances like Beat-Club to festival stages around the world, they built a lasting legacy. Decades later, The Troggs remain a powerful reminder that sometimes the simplest rock ’n’ roll can be the most unforgettable.
THE HANS THEESSINK BAND
The Hans Theessink Band stands for musical richness and deep feeling. Versatility has always defined Theessink’s career, whether he performs alone or surrounded by great musicians. With decades of experience, he delivers soulful blues and roots music filled with both emotion and technical excellence. His vast repertoire feels like a living archive of American roots traditions, guiding the audience through a joyful journey across blues, rhythm & blues, folk, roots rock and touches of gospel.
In the Hans Theessink Band, he is joined by outstanding keyboardist Roland Guggenbichler, who moves effortlessly between organ, piano and accordion. Adding even more depth, three Zimbabwean singers contribute strong vocals, percussion, movement and vibrant African spirit, creating a colorful and uplifting live experience.
Lovely Days 2026 is already sold-out! The lucky ones who have got their precious tickets shall prepare for an outstanding rock festival, with the aforementioned great line-up, on July 4th, in Eisenstadt, Austria! Myth of Rock will also be there to share with you the astonishing experience!
