Red Bank, New Jersey, is once again preparing to host one of the state’s most anticipated musical celebrations as the annual Light of Day WinterFest returns to the Count Basie Center’s Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre. On Saturday, January 17, the 2026 Main Event, dubbed “Bob’s Birthday Bash,” will bring together legendary performers and rising stars for an unforgettable evening that blends world-class music with a heartfelt mission: raising awareness and funding for Parkinson’s disease, ALS, and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy. Over more than two decades, Light of Day has grown from a small birthday tribute into an internationally recognized festival, proving that music can inspire change while uniting communities across generations.
The 2026 lineup reads like a catalog of musical excellence, headlined by Johnny Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls and Willie Nile. Fans can also look forward to Joe Grushecky & The Houserockers, joined by special guest Gary U.S. Bonds, alongside Dramarama, Fantastic Cat, James Maddock, Remember Jones, Williams Honor, and Joe D’Urso & Stone Caravan. The evening will feature performances from Amanda Cross & Derek Cruz, Matt & Eryn O’Ree, Miss Emily, and other surprise artists announced closer to the event. Each performance contributes to the festival’s larger mission of raising funds and awareness, while showcasing New Jersey’s vibrant music scene and the enduring energy of live performance.
Ticket packages are designed to accommodate a range of audiences and experiences. The On-Stage FestPass provides a rare opportunity for front-row access, a private cash bar, and a signature WinterFest “Swag Bag,” along with admission to all events throughout Asbury Park and Monmouth County from January 15–18. Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze packages offer reserved seating in the orchestra and balcony, giving fans flexibility while preserving exclusivity. For those seeking the most accessible options, Super Saver tickets allow attendees to enjoy the performances from the upper balcony, ensuring that the festival remains welcoming to music lovers of all budgets and ages.
Light of Day is as much about its mission as it is about music. Since its inception in 1998, the festival has raised approximately $7 million for research, patient care, and advocacy efforts surrounding neurodegenerative diseases. The festival began with a small gathering in Red Bank to celebrate the 40th birthday of Bob Benjamin, a longtime artist manager diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and has since expanded into a multi-day festival with international performances, demonstrating the global resonance of its cause. Portions of proceeds from every show support local Parkinson’s organizations, underscoring the festival’s commitment to tangible impact in addition to musical excellence.
Over the years, Light of Day has hosted unforgettable collaborations that have become part of music lore. Bruce Springsteen’s surprise appearances alongside Joe Grushecky & The Houserockers, as well as performances from Southside Johnny Lyon, Darlene Love, Michael J. Fox, Max Weinberg, Lucinda Williams, and Ed Kowalczyk, have cemented the festival’s reputation as a unique intersection of entertainment and advocacy. Each performance celebrates the cultural richness of the region while shining a spotlight on critical health initiatives, making it a cornerstone event in New Jersey’s arts and philanthropy calendar. Music enthusiasts seeking more insight into the local arts scene can explore coverage of live performances and emerging talent through Explore New Jersey’s dedicated music resources.
Beyond the performances, WinterFest emphasizes inclusivity and community. Attendees experience more than just music—they engage in a collective mission, whether through curated Swag Bags, behind-the-scenes access, or simply by being part of a live audience that supports a meaningful cause. Every ticket, every song, and every shared moment contributes to a larger effort to combat Parkinson’s and related diseases, fostering connection, awareness, and hope.
As WinterFest 2026 opens its doors, the stage is set for an evening where music and purpose collide. From Johnny Rzeznik’s signature vocals to Willie Nile’s soulful performances, each note resonates with the festival’s enduring message: that art can heal, unite, and inspire action. For fans of live music and supporters of critical health initiatives alike, Light of Day WinterFest 2026 promises a celebration that is as meaningful as it is unforgettable, carrying forward Bob Benjamin’s vision for music, community, and hope.
