Boonville, CA — June 16, 2024
The Sierra Nevada World Music Festival (SNWMF), renowned for its celebration of traditional Jamaican music and family-friendly atmosphere, has announced the cancellation of its upcoming event scheduled for June 21-23, 2024. The decision comes just a week before the festival was set to take place in Boonville, CA. with headliners
Producer Gretchen Franz-Smith shared the news in a heartfelt statement released this morning: “With a very heavy heart, SNWMF BNVL LLC must announce the cancellation of Sierra Nevada World Music Festival 2024, due to unforeseen circumstances beyond their control.”
The announcement comes as a disappointment to many, given the festival’s significant cultural impact and its recent triumphant return in 2023 after a five-year hiatus. This year would have marked the 27th installment of the beloved event.
Franz-Smith expressed deep regret over the situation, stating, “We cannot apologize enough for this turn of events or the late notice. We have considered every option over the last couple of weeks but must face the harsh economic realities. We cannot express our gratitude and love to everyone who has supported SNWMF.”
The festival organizers assured ticket holders that they will be kept informed through newsletters and social media posts regarding further developments.
This cancellation adds to the growing list of festivals unable to proceed in 2024, reflecting broader challenges faced by the event industry. There are over 100 reggae festivals held worldwide annually.
Meanwhile, Reggae on the River makes a retuned on August 2-4 at County Line Ranch in Humboldt County CA.
With a scenic venue with trees, shade, and the Eel River the event features 30 SoundSystems, including artists like King Addies, Killamanjaro, and reggae singers Sister Nancy, J-Boog, Stylo G, Demarco, Anthony B, Lila Ike, Nattali Rize, Arkaingelle, Marlon Asher, Chuck Fender, Pressure BussPipe, Xyclone, Ishi Dube, Tuff Like Iron, Bay-C from T.O.K, Perfect Giddimani, Lutan Fyah and more across three stages.