Rock fans across Ontario will have a brand-new summer festival to look forward to when the Rockstalgia Music Festival makes its debut on July 11–12, 2026, at the Orono Fairgrounds in Orono, Ontario. Celebrating the unforgettable sounds of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, the two-day event promises a weekend filled with live performances, family-friendly entertainment and community spirit.

With 24 bands performing across two stages, Rockstalgia aims to bring together legendary rock classics, talented tribute acts and emerging Canadian artists. The festival’s theme, “Rock Through the Decades, Feel It All Again,” reflects its mission of celebrating the music that continues to inspire generations.

Wide Mouth Mason Headlines Saturday Night

Saturday’s main stage will be headlined by Wide Mouth Mason, one of Canada’s most respected rock acts. Since forming in Saskatchewan in the mid-1990s, the band has built a loyal following with its distinctive blend of alternative rock, blues and jam-inspired performances.

Their self-titled debut album achieved Gold certification in Canada and earned a JUNO Award nomination for Best New Group. Over the years, the band has toured alongside internationally renowned artists while continuing to release new music and perform for audiences across North America.

Joining the Saturday line-up are several acclaimed tribute bands, including performances celebrating the music of Black Sabbath, Rush, Led Zeppelin and KISS, offering fans a nostalgic journey through some of rock’s greatest eras.

Sunday Celebrates Rock Legends

The festival continues on Sunday with another impressive programme dedicated to classic rock favourites.

Audiences can expect performances honouring Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Fleetwood Mac, Pearl Jam, The Tragically Hip and AC/DC, recreating many of the songs that defined generations of music lovers.

With a mixture of faithful recreations and energetic stage performances, Sunday promises something for longtime fans as well as younger audiences discovering these iconic artists for the first time.

Spotlighting Local Talent

Alongside the main stage, the Local and Loud Stage provides valuable exposure for emerging performers from across Ontario.

Saturday’s headline performance comes from Luscious, while Sunday features Durham Region favourites Two For The Show.

One of the weekend’s highlights will be the Main Stage Challenge, where original bands compete for the title of Rockstalgia 2026 Local Legends. The winning act will receive a coveted opening performance on the festival’s main stage, along with $1,500 in prizes, helping support the next generation of Canadian rock musicians.

Music, Family Fun and Community Giving

Founded by Festival Director Angela Baltkois, Rockstalgia was created to provide both established and emerging artists with an authentic platform while supporting important community causes.

The festival proudly partners with the Bowmanville Hospital Foundation, Bethesda House and Wounded Warriors Canada, reinforcing its commitment to giving back beyond the music.

Visitors will also find plenty to enjoy away from the stages, including food trucks, marketplace vendors, a licensed beer tent and the Little Rockers Kids Zone, making the festival an attractive destination for families as well as dedicated music fans.

To make travelling easier, Rockstalgia has partnered with Town Trolley to offer convenient transportation packages from communities throughout Durham Region, Port Perry, Peterborough, Cobourg and Belleville. The package includes festival admission along with round-trip bus service.

With an exciting mix of headline performances, tribute bands, local talent and family entertainment, the inaugural Rockstalgia Music Festival is set to become one of Ontario’s newest summer music traditions.

For tickets, transportation packages and the complete festival schedule, visit the official Rockstalgia Music Festival website.