Roanoke’s Festival in the Park is gearing up for a powerful start to Memorial Day Weekend 2026, and this year’s opening night is bringing true rock‑and‑roll royalty to Elmwood Park. Lou Gramm—the unmistakable original voice of Foreigner—will headline the Friday night kickoff concert on May 22, launching a full weekend of music, art, food, and community celebration in the heart of the Star City.
WROV FM is proud to serve as the presenting radio station on site for opening night, bringing the excitement straight to fans all across Southwest Virginia. And for listeners hoping to score their way into the show, keep your ears open—WROV will be giving away tickets soon.
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A Legendary Voice Returns to the Stage
Lou Gramm’s soaring vocals helped define Foreigner’s biggest hits, from “Cold as Ice” to “Juke Box Hero” to the timeless #1 ballad “I Want to Know What Love Is.” His unmistakable sound powered one of rock’s most successful bands and continues to captivate audiences around the world.
Born in Rochester, New York, Gramm began his career in local bands before teaming up with guitarist Mick Jones to form Foreigner. Together, they created a catalog of rock classics that have stood strong for nearly five decades. Gramm’s solo career further cemented his status as one of rock’s most distinctive and enduring vocalists.
Festival organizers say they couldn’t imagine a better way to open the weekend. “Lou Gramm’s music has touched millions, and we can’t think of a better way to start Festival In The Park than with his iconic sound,” said Skip Brown, Festival In The Park’s Promoter and CEO.
Festival in the Park: A Roanoke Tradition
For more than 50 years, Festival in the Park has been one of Roanoke’s most beloved community events. The three‑day celebration—running Friday, May 22 through Sunday, May 24—brings together live music, local artisans, food vendors, family activities, and the unmistakable energy of springtime in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
As a 501(c) nonprofit, Festival in the Park is dedicated to giving back to the community and creating memorable experiences for all ages. No one draws a salary; the focus is entirely on supporting Roanoke and celebrating the people who make it special.
Ticket Information
Tickets for Lou Gramm’s May 22 performance go on sale Friday, March 27 at 10:00 AM.
They will be available:
- Online: berglundcenter.live
- By phone: 844‑599‑LIVE
- At the Berglund Center Box Office (now an authorized Ticketmaster venue)
Box Office Hours:
- Tuesday & Thursday: 12 PM – 4 PM
- Wednesday: 2 PM – 6 PM
- Event & Game Days: 10 AM – event time
- On‑sale Days: 10 AM – 6 PM
Berglund Center encourages fans to purchase tickets directly from official sources to avoid unauthorized resellers.
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A Weekend You Won’t Want to Miss
With Lou Gramm kicking off the festivities, Festival in the Park 2026 is set to deliver an unforgettable Memorial Day Weekend in Roanoke. Whether you’re a lifelong Foreigner fan, a festival regular, or simply ready to celebrate the start of summer, this is a night—and a weekend—you’ll want on your calendar.
And don’t forget: 96.3 WROV and 104.9 STEVE FM will be giving away tickets soon, so stay tuned for your chance to win.