On Sunday, May 18, the legacy of rock icon Ronnie James Dio will once again take center stage—this time on the South Lawn of the Autry Museum in Griffith Park—as the annual ROCK FOR RONNIE Concert in the Park returns with a full day of live music, community, and cancer awareness.
The event is organized by the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund, a nonprofit founded in memory of the late heavy metal vocalist, who died from gastric cancer in 2010. Since then, the organization has raised over $2 million for cancer research and prevention efforts. “Monies raised have been committed to the cancer research work of the T. J. Martell Foundation… the gastric cancer research unit of the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center… and other cancer research projects,” a statement from the fund explains.
Now in its 15th year, the Dio Cancer Fund continues to channel the power of music into meaningful impact. 100% of net proceeds from the event will support cancer prevention, research, and education.
This year’s concert will be headlined by actor and metal singer Sebastian Bach, known for his time fronting Skid Row and more recently for his solo work and Broadway performances. Also on the bill is an all-star jam featuring local favorite Led Zepagain, along with musicians from bands like Five Finger Death Punch, Dio, Thin Lizzy, Warrant, Steve Vai’s touring band, Kings X, BuckCherry, and more.
Ahmet Zappa will host the event, which also boasts performances by Dio Disciples, southern rock standout Jason Charles Miller, hard-hitting favorites Kill Devil Hill, Las Vegas rockers Count’s 77—led by Counting Cars star Danny Koker—and rising L.A. locals Anita Squeeze.
In addition to live music, ROCK FOR RONNIE offers a full festival experience: food trucks, silent and live auctions (including one-of-a-kind rock memorabilia), artist meet-and-greets, vendor booths, and a dedicated “Garden of Hope.” “There will be ample additional opportunities to support the Dio Cancer Fund… through merchandise sales, auctions, food and beverage sales, and direct contributions on site,” the organization adds.
General Admission tickets are $65, with a limited number of VIP seating tickets available for $125. The new location at Griffith Park offers a scenic, family-friendly setting with ample free parking—an L.A. rarity.
Sponsors for this year’s concert include Motörhead Whiskey, White Hag Beer, Liquid Death, Celsius, In-N-Out Burger, Street Food Cinema, Total Wine & More, among many others.
ROCK FOR RONNIE is more than a concert—it’s a cause worth standing (and shouting) for.
Tickets available now:
Eventbrite: Rock for Ronnie – May 18, 2025
More info: www.diocancerfund.org
