The Hard Rocker

Gothenburg is often mentioned as the capital of hard rock in Sweden. World-renowned bands such as In Flames, Soundtrack of Our Lives and At the Gates were all founded in the city. This summer, both local bands and international icons will take the stage.

AC/DC – 28 July at Ullevi

The Power Up Tour shares its name with AC/DC’s latest album from 2020, which debuted at number one in 21 countries. In 2025, the band brings the tour to Europe, performing in 12 cities, including Gothenburg at Ullevi.

Blue Öyster Cult – 30 May at Partille Arena

The classic hard rock band Blue Öyster Cult finally returns to Sweden, with a stop in Gothenburg.

The Sword + Doomherre – 25 June at Monument Ringön

The Sword is returning to Europe for a handful of shows – a much-anticipated comeback from one of rock’s most interesting and heavy acts.

REZN + support – 20 August at Monument Ringön

The Chicago-based metal band REZN opened for Russian Circles last year and returns to Gothenburg and Monument this year as a headlining act.

Les Big Byrd – 4 July at Bryggan Ringön

Les Big Byrd will take over Stigberget’s new outdoor stage Bryggan, delivering psychedelic and alternative rock.

THE THE – 10 June at Pustervik

THE THE, led by frontman Matt Johnson, has had a long and successful career, known for blending post-punk, new wave and experimental music.

Alestorm – 23 June at Pustervik

The world’s biggest pirate metal band comes to Gothenburg. Founded by a group of friends in a small town in eastern Scotland, the band was originally called Battleheart – a metal band with a love for all things pirate.

Tribute to Rock – 8 August at Götaplatsen

Experience a tribute to the best of rock live in an energetic rock fest at Götaplatsen, filled with music, community and nostalgia.

The Festival Lover

For those who crave chilled vibes in the sun while wandering in search of fresh, exciting music, Gothenburg’s festival scene is buzzing this summer.

Grönskan Music Festival – 24 May at Apslätten, Kålltorp

Grönskan opens the doors of culture for everyone, regardless of background or age. Its aim is to create a space for joy and togetherness, where people from various cultures and generations can meet and enjoy live music, games, and food.

Clandestino Festival – 29 May–1 June at Skeppet GBG

The 23rd edition of Clandestino Festival showcases music, art and literature. This year promises an eclectic mix of artists and genres, offering a unique cultural experience in a lively and welcoming setting.

Pangsommar – 5 July at Bananpiren, Hisingen

Pangsommar is Gothenburg’s latest addition to the 2025 concert calendar. This one-day festival takes place on Saturday 5 July, featuring artists like Dina Ögon, Markus Krunegård, Sarah Klang, Valter Nilsson, Tomma Intet and Spela Död.

Vi som älskar 90- och 00-talet – 12 July at Frihamnen, Hisingen

Global stars such as Dr. Alban and Alexandra Stan reunite once again in a star-studded line-up. Expect a cavalcade of the best musical heroes of the ’90s and 2000s when the summer’s biggest party hits Gothenburg.

Slakthuset Block Party – 16–18 July at Wine Mechanics, Gamlestaden

Slakthuset Block Party is back for three days of music, food and drink in Gamlestaden, where eastern Gothenburg will resound with acts like Amanda Bergman, Sunnan and Terra.

Way Out West – 7–9 August at Slottsskogen

Way Out West, the music and film festival, brings a festive atmosphere to Gothenburg every year, attracting both local and international visitors. This year’s line-up is rumoured to be the best yet, with acts including Iggy Pop, Pet Shop Boys, Charli XCX and Yung Lean & Bladee.

Göteborgs Kulturkalas – 28–30 August citywide

Gothenburg’s free city festival returns for three days of buzzing crowds, great music, delicious food and good vibes. The first names announced include Silvana Imam, Seinabo Sey and Marcus & Martinus.

The Nostalgic Fan

Timeless classics and returning favourites – why change a winning concept? This summer, several Swedish and international icons will take to Gothenburg’s stages.

Håkan Hellström – 6 June at Ullevi

The King of Gothenburg is back at Ullevi for no less than three concerts, starting on Sweden’s National Day. Expect thousands of fans singing every word in unison in one of the summer’s most unforgettable live experiences.

Darin – 19 July at Ullevi

In 2025, Darin celebrates 20 years as an artist with his first and biggest-ever concert at the iconic Ullevi in Gothenburg. Expect a celebration and a proper hit parade marking this career milestone.

Roxette – 23 & 25 July at Trädgårdsföreningen

In summer 2025, Per Gessle takes Roxette’s treasure trove of global hits on the road again – including a stop in Gothenburg. He is joined by the singer Lena Philipsson, with whom he recorded the single Sällskapssjuk.

Madness – 4 June at Liseberg

The legendary pop and ska band Madness, known for their unique style and hit songs, are set to perform once again for Gothenburg audiences at Liseberg.

Tom Jones – 10 July at Liseberg

Welsh favourite Tom Jones is a returning guest at Liseberg’s main stage. With classics like It’s Not Unusual and She’s a Lady, he’s back this summer.

Gipsy Kings – 25 July at Ullevi Plaza

Ullevi Plaza is Gothenburg’s new event space outside Ullevi. First on stage: Gipsy Kings – the legendary band that has made the world dance for over four decades with their unique fusion of flamenco, salsa and pop.

For Friends and Families

If you want to experience Gothenburg’s music summer in the company of loved ones – and possibly little ones – there are plenty of child- and teen-friendly options.

Haga Bluegrass Street Festival – 31 May on Haga Nygata

A festival in Haga featuring Bluegrass bands with sounds from America’s southeast. Expect great food and drink as you stroll between performances.

Laleh – 20 August at Trädgårdsföreningen

Swedish folk artistry meets modern pop genius. Singing in both Swedish and English, Laleh has created a signature style, resonating with both young and older audiences. She returns to Gothenburg and Trädgårdsföreningen this summer.

Viktor Leksell – 16 August at Trädgårdsföreningen

Gothenburg’s own Viktor Leksell has cemented his place as one of Sweden’s most beloved live performers. In summer 2025, he embarks on a long-awaited tour with new music, including a stop in his hometown.

Klara Hammarström – 28 June at Trädgår’n

On 28 June, Klara Hammarström, the star from the Swedish contest Melodifestivalen, comes to Gothenburg and the show venue Trädgår’n.

Peg Parnevik – 11 July at Liseberg

Following a praised appearance on the TV show Så mycket bättre, platinum success with Bättre nu, and a debut album on the way, Peg Parnevik brings both emotions and sing-alongs to Liseberg this summer.

Hov1 – 22 August at Slottsskogsvallen

Ten years after releasing their first single, hip-hop/pop group Hov1 are embarking on their final tour. One of their last shows will be in Gothenburg at Slottsskogsvallen.

Local Gems

Intimate gigs, jazzy sounds and show-style concerts – music is a natural part of Gothenburg’s summer nightlife. Several local venues bring you closer to the music.

Nefertiti

One of Gothenburg’s premier concert venues. With its low stage, Nefertiti is often said to offer an “abroad-like” concert experience. This summer features performances by Natalie Lindh, Basia Bulat and West Pride with Soak Festival.

Skeppet GBG

With its unique live stage, restaurant and studio at Stigberget in Majorna, Skeppet GBG will host acts including Mange Schmidt, Dana & Alde and Django Generation.

Villa Belparc

As usual, the outdoor stage at Villa Belparc will host some of Sweden’s biggest names this summer. Expect a diverse musical programme with acts such as Peter Jöback, Molly Hammar and Weeping Willows.

More Tips and Gothenburg’s Own Spotify Playlist

Discover more tips in this guide to Gothenburg’s music summer 2025, and listen to the Spotify playlist featuring songs from this summer’s line-up.