Rock on the River 2025 moves to Participark, back to its roots

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Timmins music fest shifts venues due to damage at Hollinger Park

Rock on the River returns to riverside for 2025

What's new at Rock on the River

Timmins music festival to feature A-list Canadian talent

The Timmins Festivals and Events Committee (TFEC) has announced a change of venue for this year’s Rock on the River festival, moving the event from Hollinger Park back to its original riverside location at Participark. The decision comes after the City of Timmins identified necessary infrastructure repairs and ground improvements at Hollinger Park, making Participark the ideal choice for 2025.

TFEC chair John Olaveson acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but emphasized the benefits of the relocation.

“Hollinger Park has been a fantastic venue, but the City has a lot of important work to do there this year,” he said in a news release. “Moving the festival to Participark allows that work to continue uninterrupted, while also giving us a chance to bring the event back to where it all began for 2025.”

Nostalgic return with big plans for 2026

The shift to Participark marks a nostalgic return for the festival, offering attendees a scenic and accessible setting along the river. Fans have long expressed a desire for the event to return to its original location, and organizers are eager to deliver.

“Many people have asked us over the years, ‘When are you bringing it back to the river?’ Well, you got it this year!” Olaveson said. “We’re thrilled to offer fans the unique experience of enjoying live music by the water once again.”

While 2025 promises an unforgettable experience, next year’s festival is already shaping up to be even bigger. 2026 will mark the 10th anniversary of Rock on the River, and the event will return to a revitalized Hollinger Park for a grand celebration.

“We’re already planning something big for next year,” Olaveson added. “But make no mistake, 2025 is going to rock just as hard.”

Rock and country lineup announced for 2025

This year’s festival kicks off on July 18, with a powerhouse rock lineup featuring Headstones, Pop Evil, Bif Naked, and Failed Attempt. The following day, Saturday, July 19, shifts to high-energy country performances headlined by Brett Kissel, Cooper Alan, Cory Marks, and Mitch Jean.

Regional talent also showcased

In addition to the main stage acts, the Northern Roots Stage will showcase regional talent, including Station Radio, Alloy, Invocate, The Shaftmen, Leslie Anne and the Trailblazers, Gabriella Dampier, Eric Girard and the Travellers, and Claudia Charlebois.

With a mix of rock and country, a return to the festival’s original riverside setting, and an exciting preview of next year’s milestone celebration, Rock on the River 2025 organizers say they hope to deliver an unforgettable weekend of music and community spirit.