Rock in Haapsalu 2025

The Big Comeback: Rock in Haapsalu Returns After a Six-Year Break

On 29–30 August, the beloved Rock in Haapsalu festival returns to Haapsalu Castle Yard after a six-year pause. The major event is back with UK Pink Floyd Experience and the legendary Uriah Heep headlining.

Last held in 2019, the festival has brought unforgettable concerts to Estonian audiences. Over the years, Rock in Haapsalu has hosted legends such as Gary Brooker with the festival orchestra and Haapsalu Chamber Choir, Katie Melua, James Morrison, Chris de Burgh, Paul Young, Bonnie Tyler, Suzi Quatro, and many other international stars. In 2018, the wildly talented duo 2Cellos gave a spectacular sold-out performance. The festival has also showcased some of Estonia’s best artists and ensembles, as well as musicians from neighbouring Latvia and Lithuania.

According to Haapsalu Mayor Urmas Sukles, Rock in Haapsalu’s mission has always been to bring legendary musicians together within the mighty medieval walls of the castle and create unforgettable summer memories in one of Estonia’s most beautiful towns. “Estonians love Haapsalu, and the blend of high-quality rock performances with the summer atmosphere of the town has always been extraordinary,” Sukles added.

On Friday, 29 August, the UK Pink Floyd Experience will deliver a spectacular show with nearly two hours of Pink Floyd’s timeless hits. Classics like “Another Brick in the Wall,” “Comfortably Numb,” and “High Hopes” will fill the night, with the concert dedicated to the 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd’s iconic album Wish You Were Here.

Before Pink Floyd Experience, the stage will host LED R! – a rock band formed by former members of the legendary Estonian group RUJA. Known for their energetic and often spontaneous performances, they will pay tribute to one of their musical heroes, Led Zeppelin, playing their songs loud, raw, and from the heart.

Friday’s program will be opened by Erki Pärnoja – an acclaimed Estonian guitarist and composer, admired for his cinematic, nostalgia-tinged soundscapes. Blending dream-pop, ambient, post-rock, and psychedelia, his music offers a Nordic perspective on Morricone’s legacy, where 70s-inspired guitar tones merge with modern atmospheric textures. Erki is a three-time Estonian Music Award winner with nine studio albums to his name.

On Saturday, 30 August, the legendary Uriah Heep – one of the world’s oldest and most renowned active rock bands – will take the stage. A long-time favourite of Estonian rock fans, the band is currently on their final tour, “Magicians Farewell.” This will be the last chance for Estonian audiences to hear hits like “Lady in Black,” “July Morning,” “Gypsy,” “Easy Living,” and more, live.

Sharing the stage on Saturday will be Estonia’s own electrifying rock band Ziggy Wild, led by powerhouse vocalist Laura Prits, whose charismatic stage presence is a rock tsunami that leaves no one standing still.

The second day of the festival will open with Taavi Peterson, who first rose to fame in Estonian Idol in 2007. A passionate classic rock devotee, he has returned to the spotlight as the new lead singer of the legendary Estonian band Pantokraator, while continuing to create fresh original music.

Both festival nights will close with a spectacular fireworks display.