Rockin' Thunder @ Exhibition Lands Racetrack - July 11, 2025 - Day 1 Recap

Photos by Kylee Thompson Photography

Day one of Rockin’ Thunder came in hot, literally and figuratively. The heat was blazing, but it didn’t stop anyone from showing up early, ready to rock out and soak in the fantastic lineup that kicked off this two-day festival.

Queensrÿche opened the main stage and wasted no time hitting their stride. Their mix of melodic metal and soaring vocals got heads banging and fists in the air. A solid way to set the bar for the day.

Up next, Toque brought a ton of energy and personality. It felt like a love letter to Canadian rock, tight musicianship, big hooks, and a crowd that sang along to almost every word. They clearly knew how to work an Edmonton audience.

When Bret Michaels hit the stage, it was full glam-rock mode. From bandanas to big choruses, it was pure fun. You could tell people were living their teenage dream watching him tear through Poison hits under the open sky.

Bret Michaels

Toque

Queensrÿche