Lollapalooza Chile 2026 kicked off its return to Parque O’Higgins this weekend after four years at Cerrillos, and the festival’s Saturday lineup delivered both standout moments and some notable issues. The event, a cornerstone of the Chilean music scene, saw performances ranging from established stars to rising talents.
Among the highlights were electrifying sets from Chilean artists Candelabro and Katteyes, who drew large crowds to the Perry Stage. Tyler, The Creator’s appearance was particularly significant, marking a return after a cancelled 2018 performance. A surprise guest spot from local rapper Lenwa Dura during Zaturno’s set also energized the audience, while the diverse lineup spanned genres from African-inspired music with Wasa Wasa to the hardcore and pop sounds of Turnstile and Katseye.
However, the festival wasn’t without its challenges. Organizers faced criticism for gender-segregated entry lines on Avenida Matta, which reportedly caused confusion and congestion. Access points to the park were also overwhelmed on both days of the festival, with security personnel sometimes described as heavy-handed.
The Kidzapalooza area also experienced issues, with the 31 Minutos reveal suffering the same stage collapse it did during its debut performance in 2012. Despite being a popular and well-equipped space for children and families, the limited capacity meant many attendees couldn’t experience the main event.
“If this show had been installed on the main stages, the sun could have complicated things for the children,” a production source explained, referencing the logistical decision. Small screens with poor sound quality were installed further back, but did little to improve visibility for those unable to get close to the stage.
Festival organizers also addressed concerns regarding burns sustained by three attendees at Sabrina Carpenter’s performance due to fireworks. “We received 3 medical attention requests, they were treated, categorized as minor, and those cases will be followed up according to the work protocol we have for our events,” Lotus, the production company behind Lollapalooza, stated.
From DJO to Katseye
The popularity of ‘Stranger Things’ star Joe Keery drew a large crowd to DJO’s set, rivaling the anticipation for Katseye, who also performed on the festival’s main stages.
The quintet, featuring Daniela, a member of Latin American descent selected through the reality show ‘Dream Academy,’ delivered an emotional performance. Daniela reportedly cried while singing in Spanish for the Chilean audience. Tyler, The Creator also showed emotion during the final moments of his set, tearing up as he surveyed the packed crowd after a performance featuring medleys and fan favorites.
The night concluded with a performance by Los Bunkers, who presented a primarily electric set, marking a departure from their recent unplugged era.
The New Icons
Despite the challenges, the festival spotlighted two emerging Chilean artists: Candelabro and Katteyes. Katteyes’ 45-minute set at the Perry Stage drew a massive crowd, even with the last-minute absence of Sinaka, and was hailed as a breakout moment for the artist. Fans had reportedly left the show when Sinaka didn’t appear.
Meanwhile, Candelabro, considered one of the most promising indie bands in Chile, delivered a powerful performance on the Cenco Mall Stage. The band’s set grew in both size and energy as they played, captivating the audience with their art rock and fusion sound, and incorporating direct political statements targeting international right-wing figures.
