Rush members secure $1 million for Neil Peart memorial

The fundraising campaign for a permanent memorial to the late Rush drummer Neil Peart has reached its $1 million goal. Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson provided a decisive $785,000 donation, which was presented following the band's recent performances at Toronto's Scotiabank Arena.

The funds were primarily generated from a portion of the proceeds from VIP packages and experiences during the Rush ‘Fifty Something’ tour. Additionally, Geddy Lee contributed $1 from every ticket sold during his 2023 ‘My Effin’ Life’ book tour. While the major goal has been met, the public collection remains open until October 15, 2026, allowing fans to purchase commemorative engraved panels.

The memorial will be located in Lakeside Park in St. Catharines, Ontario, a location significant to Peart’s youth and the inspiration for the band's song ‘Lakeside Park’. Designed by sculptor Morgan MacDonald, the project will feature two life-sized bronze sculptures of Peart representing different stages of his life. The memorial is expected to be completed in late 2027.