International Reggae Day, celebrated annually on July 1, is a global tribute to reggae music and its rich cultural heritage. To celebrate the day, media and fans around the world are invited to synchronize and play in sequence: Bob Marley’s “One Love,” “Here I Come” as a tribute to Dennis Brown, whose memorial also falls on July 1st and “Reggae Bring Back Love” in honour of the late Peetah Morgan from IRD Ambassadors Morgan Heritage.
The 24 hour global celebration of the day is under theme this year is “30 Years of Riddim and Resistance.”
July 2024 is set to be a remarkable month for reggae music. Buju Banton’s return to New York City will see the Gargamel performing at three shows over two nights. He will perform back-to-back shows at the UBS Arena in Queens, followed by an afterparty at the nearby Amazura Nightclub. This marks the first time a reggae artist has done two consecutive arena shows in the Big Apple as the ‘Til Shiloh singer launches the US leg of his Long Walk to Freedom tour.
Reggae Sumfest’s 31st anniversary will feature two nights of main events, with Baby Face and Beres Hammond headlining night two on July 20. Hotels in Montego Bay are already nearing full capacity ahead of this week-long event in partnership with the Jamaica Rum Festival.
From July 1-31, more than 50 reggae festivals will take place around the world plus artist like Ziggy Marley, Shenseea and others are on multi-city tours. From the beaches of France to the urban landscapes of the United States, these festivals will bring together fans, artists, and cultures, showcasing the universal appeal and unifying power of reggae. Here’s a glimpse into the notable reggae festivals happening this month:
Big Reggae Festival 2024
Date: July 2, 2024
Location: Juan Les Pins, France
Kicking off the month, the Big Reggae Festival in Juan Les Pins, France, will set the tone with its sun-soaked beaches and rhythmic beats. This festival is known for its eclectic mix of traditional reggae sounds and modern influences, attracting both local and international acts.
International Festival of Life 2024
Date: July 4 – July 7, 2024
Location: Chicago, IL, United States
Chicago’s International Festival of Life spans four days of music, culture, and community. This festival is a cultural melting pot, featuring not just reggae but also a variety of world music genres, making it a vibrant celebration of global diversity.
Skank Festival 2024
Date: July 5 – July 6, 2024
Location: Cantabria, Spain
The Skank Festival in Cantabria, Spain, is set to bring a unique blend of reggae and ska, offering attendees a dynamic musical experience. This festival is a must-visit for those who appreciate the energetic fusion of these two genres.
SummerJam 2024
Date: July 5 – July 7, 2024
Location: Cologne, Germany
One of Europe’s largest reggae festivals, SummerJam in Cologne, Germany, promises an unforgettable weekend with multiple stages, a diverse lineup, and a vibrant festival atmosphere. It’s a key event on the reggae calendar, attracting fans from all over the world.
Reggae Woods 2024
Date: July 6, 2024
Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands
Reggae Woods in Rotterdam offers a one-day immersion into the world of reggae, featuring both established artists and rising stars. The festival is set in a picturesque woodland setting, providing a unique backdrop for a day of music and relaxation.
One Earth Reggae Fest 2024
Date: July 6, 2024
Location: Bethlehem, PA, United States
The One Earth Reggae Fest in Bethlehem, PA, aims to promote unity and environmental consciousness through music. It’s a family-friendly event with a strong message, combining great music with a focus on sustainability and community.
Plein Les Watts Festival 2024
Date: July 11 – July 13, 2024
Location: Lancy, Switzerland
Switzerland’s Plein Les Watts Festival is renowned for its commitment to high-quality sound and performance. This festival offers a blend of reggae, dub, and world music, set against the stunning backdrop of the Swiss landscape.
Reno Splash 2024
Date: July 11 – July 14, 2024
Location: Marzabozzo, Italy
Reno Splash in Italy is a four-day celebration of reggae culture, featuring a lineup of both international and local artists. It’s a festival that combines great music with Italian hospitality and scenic beauty.
Sunrise Reggae & Ska Festival 2024
Date: July 11 – July 14, 2024
Location: Burtenbach, Germany
The Sunrise Reggae & Ska Festival in Germany is a perfect blend of reggae and ska, creating a lively and diverse musical experience. This festival is known for its friendly atmosphere and dedicated fanbase.
Dub Camp Festival 2024
Date: July 11 – July 13, 2024
Location: Joué-sur-Erdre, France
France’s Dub Camp Festival is a haven for dub music lovers. With a focus on sound system culture, this festival offers a deep dive into the world of dub, featuring top sound systems and artists from around the globe.
Lakesplash 2024
Date: July 12 – July 13, 2024
Location: Twann, Switzerland
Set by the picturesque Lake Biel, Lakesplash in Switzerland provides a serene yet vibrant setting for reggae fans. This festival is perfect for those looking to enjoy great music in a beautiful natural environment.
Reggae Therapy Festival 2024
Date: July 12 – July 13, 2024
Location: Martinique, Martinique
Martinique’s Reggae Therapy Festival offers a unique Caribbean reggae experience. This festival blends the island’s rich cultural heritage with the soulful sounds of reggae, creating an immersive and therapeutic experience for attendees.
Reggae R Us Festival 2024
Date: July 13, 2024
Location: Toronto, Canada
Toronto’s Reggae R Us Festival is a celebration of reggae music and its influence on Canadian culture. This one-day event features a mix of established and emerging artists, providing a platform for the vibrant local reggae scene.
Afro Latino Festival 2024
Date: July 13 – July 14, 2024
Location: Genk, Belgium
The Afro Latino Festival in Belgium is a vibrant celebration of Afro-Latino culture, featuring a diverse lineup of reggae, salsa, and other world music genres. It’s a festival that promotes cultural exchange and unity through music.
Gracy’s Bash 2024
Date: July 13, 2024
Location: Varel, Germany
Gracy’s Bash in Germany is a grassroots festival that brings together reggae enthusiasts for a day of music, community, and celebration. It’s known for its intimate and friendly atmosphere.
Reggae Sumfest 2024
Date: July 14 – July 20, 2024
Location: Montego Bay, Jamaica
Reggae Sumfest, held in the birthplace of reggae, Montego Bay, Jamaica, is the pinnacle of reggae festivals. This week-long event features some of the biggest names in reggae and dancehall, offering an unparalleled musical experience.
Malmö Reggae Fest 2024
Date: July 17, 2024
Location: Malmö, Sweden
Malmö Reggae Fest in Sweden is a vibrant one-day festival that brings together reggae fans for a celebration of music and culture. It’s known for its diverse lineup and energetic performances.
Wilkswood Reggae Festival 2024
Date: July 18 – July 21, 2024
Location: Swanage, United Kingdom
The Wilkswood Reggae Festival in the UK is a family-friendly event set in the beautiful Dorset countryside. It offers a mix of live music, workshops, and activities, making it a perfect summer outing for reggae lovers of all ages.
Festival de Néoules 2024
Date: July 18 – July 20, 2024
Location: Néoules, France
Festival de Néoules in France is a celebration of reggae and world music, featuring a diverse lineup of artists from around the globe. This festival is known for its relaxed atmosphere and scenic location.
Rastaplas Festival 2024
Date: July 19 – July 20, 2024
Location: Zoetermeer, Netherlands
Rastaplas Festival in the Netherlands is a two-day event that celebrates reggae culture in all its forms. From roots reggae to dancehall, this festival offers a rich musical experience for attendees.
Nowa Reggae 2024
Date: July 19 – July 20, 2024
Location: Vilanova i la Geltrú, Spain
Nowa Reggae in Spain is a vibrant festival that brings together reggae fans for two days of music and fun. It’s known for its energetic performances and beautiful coastal setting.
Reeds Festival 2024
Date: July 19 – July 21, 2024
Location: Pfäffikon, Switzerland
Reeds Festival in Switzerland is a celebration of reggae and world music, featuring a diverse lineup of artists and a scenic lakeside location. It’s a festival that combines great music with a beautiful natural setting.
Weedbeat 2024
Date: July 19 – July 21, 2024
Location: Nordstemmen, Germany
Weedbeat in Germany is a festival dedicated to reggae and dub music. It features a mix of live performances and DJ sets, offering a comprehensive reggae experience for attendees.
Mammoth Reggae Festival 2024
Date: July 19 – July 21, 2024
Location: Mammoth Lakes, CA, United States
Mammoth Reggae Festival in California is set in the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains, providing a breathtaking backdrop for a weekend of reggae music. This festival is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful setting.
Reggae na Piaskach 2024
Date: July 19 – July 20, 2024
Location: Ostrów Wielkopolski, Poland
Reggae na Piaskach in Poland is a festival that celebrates reggae culture in Eastern Europe. It’s known for its diverse lineup and passionate fanbase.
Northwest World Reggae Festival 2024
Date: July 19 – July 21, 2024
Location: Mount Hood, OR, United States
The Northwest World Reggae Festival in Oregon is a celebration of reggae and world music, set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Hood. This festival is known for its community vibe and diverse musical offerings.
Bayfront Reggae & World Music Festival 2024
Date: July 20, 2024
Location: Duluth, MN, United States
Bayfront Reggae & World Music Festival in Minnesota is a one-day event that features a mix of reggae and world music. It’s known for its beautiful lakeside location and diverse lineup.
Edmonton Reggae Festival 2024
Date: July 20 – July 21, 2024
Location: Edmonton, AB, Canada
Edmonton Reggae Festival in Canada is a celebration of reggae culture in the heart of Alberta. This festival features a mix of live performances and cultural activities.
Reggae on the Way 2024
Date: July 21, 2024
Location: Tacoma, WA, United States
Reggae on the Way in Tacoma, Washington, is a one-day festival that brings together reggae fans for a day of music and community. It’s known for its energetic performances and friendly atmosphere.
Sun Splash Reggae Festival 2024
Date: July 21, 2024
Location: Den Haag, Netherlands
Sun Splash Reggae Festival in the Netherlands is a one-day event that celebrates reggae music in the heart of The Hague. This festival is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse lineup.
LB27 Reggae Camp 2024
Date: July 23 – July 27, 2024
Location: Lakitelek, Zalán, Hungary
LB27 Reggae Camp in Hungary is a week-long festival that offers a deep dive into reggae culture. With workshops, live performances, and community activities, it’s a comprehensive reggae experience.
Hill Vibes Reggae Festival 2024
Date: July 24 – July 27, 2024
Location: Telfs, Austria
Hill Vibes Reggae Festival in Austria is set in the beautiful Tyrolean Alps, providing a stunning backdrop for a weekend of reggae music. This festival is known for its relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking scenery.
Ostróda Reggae Festival 2024
Date: July 25 – July 28, 2024
Location: Ostróda, Poland
Ostróda Reggae Festival in Poland is one of the largest reggae festivals in Eastern Europe. It’s known for its diverse lineup and passionate fanbase, making it a must-visit for reggae enthusiasts.
Reggae Jam 2024
Date: July 26 – July 28, 2024
Location: Bersenbrück, Germany
Reggae Jam in Germany is a three-day festival that features some of the biggest names in reggae music. It’s known for its high-energy performances and vibrant festival atmosphere.
Uppsala Reggae Festival 2024
Date: July 26 – July 27, 2024
Location: Uppsala, Sweden
Uppsala Reggae Festival in Sweden is a celebration of reggae music and culture in the heart of Uppsala. This festival is known for its diverse lineup and friendly atmosphere.
Reggaeboa Festival 2024
Date: July 26 – July 28, 2024
Location: Balboa, Spain
Reggaeboa Festival in Spain is a celebration of reggae culture in the picturesque setting of Balboa. This festival features a mix of live performances and DJ sets, providing a comprehensive reggae experience.
Reggae in Wulf 2024
Date: July 26 – July 27, 2024
Location: Wulfertshausen, Germany
Reggae in Wulf in Germany is a grassroots festival that brings together reggae enthusiasts for a weekend of music and community. It’s known for its intimate and friendly atmosphere.
Irie Vibes Roots Festival 2024
Date: July 26 – July 27, 2024
Location: Handzame, Belgium
Irie Vibes Roots Festival in Belgium is a celebration of roots reggae and sound system culture. This festival is known for its high-quality sound systems and vibrant performances.
Black Forest On Fire 2024
Date: July 26 – July 28, 2024
Location: Berghaupten, Germany
Black Forest On Fire in Germany is a festival that combines reggae, dub, and dancehall in a beautiful natural setting. This festival is known for its relaxed atmosphere and diverse lineup.
Oregon Reggae Fest 2024
Date: July 26 – July 28, 2024
Location: Junction City, OR, United States
Oregon Reggae Fest in the United States is a celebration of reggae music in the heart of Oregon. This festival features a mix of live performances and community activities.
Bournemouth Reggae Weekender 2024
Date: July 26 – July 28, 2024
Location: Bournemouth, United Kingdom
Bournemouth Reggae Weekender in the UK is a family-friendly event that features a mix of live music, workshops, and activities. It’s a perfect summer outing for reggae lovers of all ages.
Reggae & Riddim Festival 2024
Date: July 26 – July 28, 2024
Location: Newport, United Kingdom
Reggae & Riddim Festival in the UK is a celebration of reggae and dancehall culture. This festival features a diverse lineup of artists and a vibrant festival atmosphere.
Sunwave 2024
Date: July 27, 2024
Location: Philadelphia, PA, United States
Sunwave in Philadelphia is a one-day festival that celebrates reggae and world music. It’s known for its diverse lineup and energetic performances.
Belize International Music and Food Festival 2024
Date: July 27 – July 28, 2024
Location: Belize, Belize
The Belize International Music and Food Festival is a celebration of music and culinary delights from around the world. This festival features a mix of reggae and world music, along with delicious food from various cultures.
Vancouver Reggae Sunsplash 2024
Date: July 27 – July 28, 2024
Location: Vancouver, BC, Canada
Vancouver Reggae Sunsplash in Canada is a two-day festival that celebrates reggae culture in the heart of Vancouver. This festival features a mix of live performances and cultural activities.
Hastings Reggae Festival 2024
Date: July 27, 2024
Location: Hastings, United Kingdom
Hastings Reggae Festival in the UK is a one-day event that brings together reggae fans for a day of music and community. It’s known for its energetic performances and friendly atmosphere.
Songs Of All Ages 2024
Date: July 28, 2024
Location: Croydon, United Kingdom
Songs Of All Ages in the UK is a celebration of music that spans generations. This festival features a mix of reggae and other genres, offering something for music lovers of all ages.
Simmer Down Festival 2024
Date: July 28, 2024
Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom
Simmer Down Festival in Birmingham is a family-friendly event that celebrates reggae culture. This festival features a mix of live music, workshops, and activities, making it a perfect summer outing for reggae lovers of all ages.
Unruly Fest – London 2024
Date: July 28, 2024
Location: London, United Kingdom
Unruly Fest in London is a one-day festival that celebrates reggae and dancehall culture. This festival features a mix of live performances and DJ sets, providing a vibrant and energetic musical experience.
