Get ready for a groundbreaking music experience. London is gearing up to host Rock the Runway, a two-day music festival set to transform london International Airport into a vibrant concert venue on Sept. 12 and 13. This isn’t your typical park or arena gig; organizers aim to create London’s largest music event, leveraging the unique space and logistical advantages of an airport setting.

A Runway for Rock ‘n’ Roll

Brad Jones,president of Jones Entertainment group,shared the inspiration behind the unconventional choice of venue. When you stand out on [the airport’s] northwest corner runway, you just see the size of it, instantly we knew we could do something special, Jones explained. The sheer scale of the location promises an unforgettable experience for music lovers.

Why an Airport? the Strategic Advantages

Choosing an airport as a festival site offers several practical benefits:

• Isolated Space: The airport’s layout helps manage crowds and minimize disruption to the surrounding areas.
• Multiple Entrances and exits: This feature is crucial for mitigating traffic congestion, ensuring smooth arrival and departure for attendees.
• All-Weather Grounds: The asphalt surfaces prevent the muddy conditions often associated with outdoor festivals, ensuring a cleaner and more comfortable experience.

Bigger is Better: Attracting Top Talent

The expansive space at London International Airport is a major draw for big-name artists. According to Jones, the corner of the airport grounds can accommodate 25,000 people, more than double the capacity of Canada Life Place or Harris park, the usual home of Rock the Park. The thing we’re most excited about is bringing really large entertainers who may not be able to play London [due to small venues], he said.We’re limited in what we can do, but now with this new partnership, it just opens up the world to London.

What to Expect: The Lineup and musical Variety

While the full lineup is yet to be revealed, Jones assures that Londoners can anticipate a diverse mix of Canadian and international acts spanning various genres. The first headline artists are expected to be announced within the next two weeks. If you’re a music lover, there will be something for everybody, Jones stated.

Back to School Bash: Partnering with Western University

Rock the Runway aims to be more than just a music festival; it’s also a celebration for returning students. The organizers are collaborating with Western University’s University Students’ Council (USC) to integrate “PurpleFest,” the school’s annual back-to-school concert, into the festival. Jeff Armour, USC chief operating officer, emphasized the value of this partnership: We just think it’s super valuable to get students out of the on-campus bubble and into the community quickly.

This collaboration will allow students to interact with the broader community, as PurpleFest is typically an exclusive on-campus event. Everyone can take some value from having a shared experience with others,where you’re out enjoying yourself, Armour added.

Similar safety measures to on-campus concerts will be in place, including ample security. The USC is also working to provide transportation options and subsidize ticket prices to ensure affordability for students.

Creating an “Aerotropolis”: More Than Just Flights

London International Airport is evolving into a multi-faceted destination.Scott McFadzean, president of London International airport, highlighted the airport’s broader vision: we’re really trying to create what I call an ‘aerotropolis,’ which is like a small city within a city. This includes adding amenities and attractions beyond air travel, such as pickleball and volleyball courts. We want to continue to give reasons for people to come out to the east part of our city and to our airport, and remind them that there’s a lot of cool things happening out there, McFadzean explained.

The festival will not disrupt flight operations,and attendees may even catch glimpses of planes arriving or departing. You will see some airplanes in the background. They won’t be directly overhead, but it’s still a cool viewing spot, McFadzean confirmed.