History of RBC Rock the Park
In 2003, Jones Entertainment Group (JEG) had a vision to create something London had never seen before, something special for London and surrounding area residents to feel at home at. They called this “Rock the Park”. Rock the Park was a brand new music festival in the heart of downtown London in Harris Park, with the beautiful Thames River running alongside. It encompasses some of London’s greatest landmarks and is home to a short walk to downtown London, home of some of the greatest restaurants and bars before and after concert hours.
Jones Entertainment Group initially created Rock the Park to raise funds for Bethany’s Hope Foundation in progressing research for Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD). When the effects of this terrible disease hit close to home, claiming the life of seven year old Bethany McIntyre, friendship and hope came together with the vision to “Rock for a Cure”. In the first twelve years of the festival, through the support of dedicated fans and a love for music, Rock the Park proudly reached over $2.2 million dollars in hopes of finally finding a cure. In 2016, Bethany’s Hope Foundation shifted gears and stepped away from Rock the Park in order to concentrate fully on a national awareness and family support campaign that will take the organization from coast to coast over the next three years. JEG is extremely proud of the progress and success Bethany’s Hope Foundation has achieved thus far, and wishes all the best and future success to their entire team. With that said, JEG is thrilled to have Big Brothers Big Sisters of London & Area, Children’s Health Foundation, and Anita May Foundation as our charitable partners of choice. To date, Rock the Park has now raised over $5 million for local charities.
Rock the Park spent its first 10 years catering to the Classic Rock demographic, which continued to bring back loyal fans annually. In 2014, Rock the Park added its first ever Country Music night, what a night that was! With over 11,000 fans packed in the park, JEG knew it was time to explore various genres of music to appeal to a larger London crowd and grow our festival to cater to all music fans for at least one night each.
By embracing change and incorporating a variety of genres, Rock the Park has continued to appeal to a wide range of demographics. Over the years, the festival has celebrated numerous sold-out shows — including three in 2023, where 12,500 fans per night packed the park for Mumford & Sons, Ludacris, and Billy Talent. Building on that momentum, 2024 also saw multiple sellouts with headliners Nickelback and Tyler Childers. This genre-diverse approach ensures that fans can always find a night of music that matches their tastes, making Rock the Park a must-attend event year after year.
In 2026, RBC Rock the Park will proudly celebrate its 22nd anniversary. Since its inception, the festival has welcomed over 800,000 fans and is closing in on $5 million raised for local charities. Known as one of Southwestern Ontario’s most anticipated outdoor summer festivals, RBC Rock the Park is about more than just music — it’s about sharing unforgettable moments with friends, reliving memories, and creating new ones. Each year, we strive to elevate the experience with an even better atmosphere, ensuring the perfect fan experience and continuing a tradition that has become a summer staple.
A BIG thank you to all of our RBC Rock the Park Fans and Sponsors for supporting us and let’s make our 22nd anniversary the best one yet!
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