The annual Rock For Ronnie Concert in the Park raised over $125,000 for the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund on Sunday, May 31, 2026.
The event, held at the Autry Museum of the American West in Griffith Park, featured a star-studded lineup including Lita Ford, Led Zepagain, Jason Charles Miller, Legs Diamond, Whole Lotta Rosies, Saints of Sinners, and Dio Disciples.
Hosted by radio personality Eddie Trunk, the event was attended by thousands of fans who enjoyed an afternoon of non-stop music in a beautiful setting.
The new location at the Autry Museum offered ample space for VIP seating, vendors, food trucks, and free parking.
Cancer researchers Irene Choi and Neeti Swarup accepted a check for $25,000 to advance their ongoing research on developing a simple saliva swab test for early cancer detection.
Local newcomers Saints of Sinners kicked off the afternoon with their unique sound, followed by the all-female tribute to AC/DC Whole Lotta Rosies and veteran British band Legs Diamond.
Returning to Rock For Ronnie by popular demand was southern rocker Jason Charles Miller with his band, comprising Allie Kay and Gary Joseph Potter Jr.
Dio Disciples debuted most of its new lineup with singers Oni Logan and Robin McAuley alternating lead vocals, backed by Rowan Robertson on guitar, Scott Warren on keyboards, and Bjorn Englen in bass.
Veteran drummer Brian Tichy filled in for Disciples' drummer Simon Wright, who is currently recovering from surgery.
A spirited live auction preceded Lita Ford's headline set, where signed one-of-a-kind guitars donated by George Thorogood, Geezer Butler, and Lita herself were auctioned off.
Following her high-energy performance backed by her band comprising Patrick Kennison on guitar, Marten Andersson on bass, and drummer Bobby Rock, Wendy Dio presented Lita Ford with the Dio Cancer Fund's Queen of Rock 'N Roll award in honor of her continued commitment and support of the charity.
The event's new location also featured a branded area called "Lemmy's Lounge," where fans could enjoy shots of Motörhead Whiskey or other beverages available from the nearby Beverage Tent.
The specially created "Garden of Hope" provided the opportunity for attendees to make an 'I Rock For...' dedication to someone who has battled, survived, or succumbed to cancer.
The Dio Cancer Fund wishes to thank the event's sponsors and supporters, including marquee sponsor Motörhead Beer, Calabasas Beer, Liquid Death Mountain Water, Marquis Sugar Free Mate Beverages, Pali Wine, Gearheart Industry, Total Wine and More, In ‘N Out Burger, Raising Canes, Danny Wimmer Presents, Adam Parsons Entertainment, The Ivy in Ojai, Christine Cardoso-Moore/Keller Williams Realty, McBride Wealth Management, The Rainbow Bar and Grill, Mates Studios, Road Radios, Chipster PR, BMG, Get On the Bus video channel, Cleopatra Records, Tim Murch, Mike Zislis, Sandeep Kapoor, The Strength Code, Rick Sales, Ann Hull, Randy Rhoads family, Global Merch, Led Zepagain, Lakland Guitars, Soldiers 4 Jesus, and Monster Energy.
The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund has already raised over $2 million since its inception.
Monies raised have been committed to the cancer research work of the T.J.
Martell Foundation for Cancer, AIDS and Leukemia Research, the gastric cancer research unit of the M.D.
Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, where Ronnie was treated for gastric cancer during the last six months of his life, and other cancer research projects.
The organization also hosts the annual Bowl for Ronnie Celebrity Bowling Party on November 12, 2026."