Wayback Festival

Entertainment and activities

Step back in time and turn up the classics—Wayback Festival 2026 brings two unforgettable days of iconic rock, fan-favourite tributes and legendary Canadian artists to downtown Kitchener. From nostalgic throwbacks to chart-topping hits, this year’s lineup celebrates the music that defined generations—perfect for singing along with friends, family and fellow fans.

Entertainment schedule

Friday, July 24: Tribute to Classic Rock

• 7 - 8:30 p.m. – Only Journey
• 9 - 10:30 p.m. – Early Elton

Saturday, July 25: Your Favourites, Live

• 6 - 7 p.m. – Born in the Eighties
• 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. – Trooper
• 9 - 10:30 p.m. – Loverboy

Performer lineup

Only Journey

Relive the soaring vocals and timeless anthems of Journey with Only Journey, a tribute that captures the sound, energy, and emotion of one of rock’s greatest bands. From “Don’t Stop Believin’” to “Any Way You Want It,” this show delivers hit after hit with stunning authenticity.

Early Elton

Step back into the golden era of Elton John with Early Elton, a tribute celebrating his iconic 70s hits and flamboyant flair. Featuring classics like “Bennie and the Jets,” “Rocket Man” and “Your Song,” this performance brings the magic of Elton’s early years to life. It’s a dazzling, feel-good show that will have everyone singing along.

Born In The Eighties

Kicking it since 2011, Born In The Eighties is a Hamilton-based party band blending the best of 80s dance hits with unforgettable 90s pop, rap and R&B, plus the occasional early-2000s club banger. Over the past 14 years, they’ve lit up festivals across the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area while doubling as a go-to, high-energy wedding band. Armed with keytar, drum machine and a deep song catalog, they never fail to fill a dance floor.

Trooper

Get ready for a legendary night of Canadian rock as Trooper hits the stage with the anthems that defined a generation. From “Raise a Little Hell” to “We’re Here for a Good Time,” their timeless hits deliver singalong energy and unforgettable memories. With decades of crowd-pleasing performances, Trooper continues to bring the party to fans old and new. Don’t miss your chance to experience one of Canada’s most iconic bands live!

Loverboy

Formed in 1979, Loverboy became one of Canada’s most iconic rock bands, delivering arena-ready hits that were the soundtrack of a generation. With classics like “Working for the Weekend,” “Turn Me Loose” and “Lovin’ Every Minute of It,” they’ve earned multiple Platinum albums, a record-breaking four Juno Awards in a single year, and a well-deserved place in the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. It’s been far too long since they’ve rocked Kitchener, making this a must-see return for local fans. Their high-energy live show still delivers the anthems and nonstop crowd excitement. 

Press play and go Wayback

Parking and transit

However you get downtown, there are options available:

• transit
• vehicle and bike parking
• plan your route
• bus parking and drop-off

Transit

Hop off the ION at either the Kitchener City Hall or Victoria Park station for a quick walk. Central Station is a short walk away, as well.

GRT routes 7, 8, 20 and iXpress 204 stop within walking distance of City Hall and Carl Zehr Square.

Vehicle and bike parking

Paid parking is available in the City Hall parking garage, as well as other City of Kitchener parking garages or lots around Downtown Kitchener. Visit our parking locations page to find somewhere to park.

If you're visiting after 5 p.m. on Thursday or Friday, park for free at a city-owned surface lot. On Sunday, park for free in the City Hall parking garage. Visit our hourly parking page to find parking costs outside of those times.

Secure bike parking is available in the City Hall parking garage.

You can pay for parking in surface lots through the Passport Parking app. Download the app, available both on iOS & Android. You can also pay for parking at the kiosks in parking garages and surface lots.

Plan your route

Check road closures on your route before coming downtown.

Bus parking and drop-off

Bus drop-off will be in front of the Duke Street entrance to City Hall, between College and Young Streets.

Busses can park in the Bramm Street Yards parking lot (55 Bramm Street). Please send us an email to let us know when you plan to arrive.