The Happiness of Pursuit Festival Announces New Date and Venue for 2026

Stage Red in Fontana, California—the new home of The Happiness of Pursuit Festival on October 3, 2026.

The Happiness of Pursuit Festival is officially back!

After taking last year off, THOP Fest will return on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at its new home: Stage Red in Fontana, California.

For eight years, Firewater Bar in Ontario served as the home of The Happiness of Pursuit Festival. It was there that THOP Fest grew from a local independent hip-hop event into a respected platform for artists from across the country. The venue played an important role in our history, and we will always appreciate the memories, performances, and community that were built there.

As the festival continues to grow, we’re excited to begin a new chapter at a bigger, state-of-the-art venue. Stage Red is a multimillion-dollar live music facility that was renamed and redesigned by the City of Fontana in honor of Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Sammy Hagar, best known as the former lead singer of Van Halen.

Moving to Stage Red gives THOP Fest an opportunity to elevate the experience for our artists, vendors, partners, and attendees while continuing the mission that has guided the festival from the beginning: advancing independent hip-hop, supporting emerging talent, and bringing the music and arts community together.

The 2026 festival will feature performances from established and rising artists, vendors, art, food, and more. The official lineup and additional festival details will be announced soon.

After eight unforgettable years in Ontario, we’re ready to bring The Happiness of Pursuit Festival to Fontana and begin its next era.

Save the date: Saturday, October 3, 2026.

For festival updates, vendor applications, and upcoming announcements, visit THOPFest.net.

D12 Returns to the U.S. Stage for the First Time in Over a Decade at THOP Fest 2024

D12 performing live at #THOPFest 2024 by Jason Lucero

This October 5th, hip-hop history was made as D12 performed in the United States for the first time in over ten years at the Happiness of Pursuit Festival (THOPFest) in Ontario, California. Originally founded by Eminem, the legendary Detroit group burst onto the scene in the late 90s, making waves with hits like "Fight Music" and "Purple Pills." Their return brought an electrifying energy to one of Southern California’s most anticipated indie festivals.

Although the group’s lineup has changed over the years, the current roster consists of longtime members Swifty McVay and Kuniva, who continue to honor D12’s legacy. Their performance at THOPFest gave fans a powerful, nostalgic experience while also offering a fresh take on the classic sound that defined an era in hip-hop.

Sharing the stage with D12 were a stellar lineup of artists including Coast Contra, Apollo Brown, Flee Lord, and more, making THOPFest 2024 a standout event. Known for blending established legends with rising talent, THOPFest has become a key destination for hip-hop heads seeking authentic and dynamic performances.

D12's return to the U.S. stage, with Eminem’s founding legacy in mind, added an iconic touch to this year’s festival, making it one for the ages!