Rock The Bells Festival returns on November 29, 2026 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Billed under the tagline “The Culture. Home for the Holidays,” the one-day event features some of the most influential names in the genre.
Headlining the evening is LL Cool J, who will perform with Z-Trip and Technician the DJ. The bill is stacked with celebrated acts, including Lil’ Kim, Kool G Rap, Kwamé, Method Man & Redman, Onyx, Papoose, Raekwon & Ghostface Killah, Roxanne Shanté, Shyne, the Sugarhill Gang and the Furious Five, SWV, and Treach of Naughty by Nature. Together, the roster spans the full arc of hip-hop’s history, from its earliest block-party roots to the East Coast sound that defined the 1990s.
The programming also includes a special Club Quarantine set by D-Nice, featuring David Banner, Letoya Luckett, The LOX, and Rapsody. The set draws on the virtual dance parties that became a cultural touchstone of the pandemic era, now brought to a live arena stage. Torae will serve as host for the night.
The festival carries the motto “Respect the Beginnings. We Do It for the Culture,” underscoring its mission to honor hip-hop’s pioneers while connecting them with new audiences. Further details and ticket information are available at rockthebellsfestival.com.
