Grants Pass is gearing up for one of the most highly anticipated musical performances in recent memory as legendary progressive metal band Queensrÿche takes the stage at Boatnik this Friday night. Set to headline the annual Brew Fest portion of the festival, the band’s appearance has already drawn record-breaking interest, with advance ticket sales among the highest in recent years, according to the Grants Pass Active Club.
Queensrÿche, best known for their genre-defining albums like Operation: Mindcrime and Empire, will perform at Riverside Park on Friday, May 23, kicking off the Memorial Day weekend festivities. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m., with special guests Emissary slated to open the concert. Tickets are still available for purchase in advance at $30 or at the gate for $35, though demand remains high and organizers urge those interested not to wait.
Formed in 1982, Queensrÿche has sold over 30 million albums worldwide and is regarded as one of the pioneers of progressive metal. Their unique blend of melodic instrumentation and socially conscious lyrics has earned them a loyal fanbase across generations. Their return to the Pacific Northwest marks a significant moment not only for longtime fans but also for Boatnik itself, as organizers say this is one of the most high-profile acts to grace the festival in recent years.
The concert is part of Boatnik’s Brew Fest, which offers a lively atmosphere complete with over 50 regional craft beers and ciders available for tasting. The Brew Fest continues to grow each year, attracting attendees from across Southern Oregon and Northern California, making it one of the festival’s most popular components.
Boatnik, now in its 66th year, is a time-honored Memorial Day weekend tradition in Josephine County. Hosted by the Grants Pass Active Club, the festival features a wide range of family-friendly events including the Davis Shows Northwest carnival, the Boatnik parade, and the always-thrilling hydroplane boat races on the Rogue River. Events span the entire weekend, bringing the community together to kick off the summer season in style.
More than just a celebration, Boatnik serves a larger purpose. Proceeds from the event go directly toward youth programs in Josephine County, supporting everything from local sports teams to scholarships. The Grants Pass Active Club, a nonprofit organization, has made community support its mission since Boatnik’s inception, and this year’s festivities are expected to provide a significant boost to those efforts.
If you’re planning to attend, organizers recommend arriving early due to the expected crowds and limited parking. While some tickets will be available at the event, advance purchase is strongly encouraged due to the volume of pre-sale interest.
Queensrÿche’s arrival signals a major moment not just for fans of rock and metal, but for the community as a whole. With the weather forecast looking favorable and energy in the air, all signs point to an unforgettable evening. For tickets and a full event schedule, visit www.boatnik.com.
This Memorial Day weekend, Grants Pass will once again prove that tradition, music, and community spirit can still bring a town to life—loud guitars and all.