Newport Reggae Festival

Newport Reggae Festival

Summer is festival season in Rhode Island. While the Blues Festival gets most of the attention, it would be a big mistake to miss the Newport  Reggae Festival. Held at the Newport Yachting Center this August, the festival will  be a celebration of Caribbean music and culture on America’s Cup Avenue.

The music kicks off at 12:30 with Soul Rebel Project. Formed in nearby Boston, Soul Rebel Project has a lively, energetic sound. At 2:00 PM, New Kingston, an energetic group that blends jazz and R&B with reggae. At 3:30, singer-songwriter Mighty Mystic will be performing.  At 5:00, the skillful reggae singer Etana will be performing. At 6:45, John Brown’s Body will be performing.  And, finally, at 8:30, the Jamaican-born reggae and ska singer Freddie McGregor will be performing on the main stage.

Children 12 and under will be admitted for free, and, along with the music, you’ll find stands offering body art, jewelry, clothing, and more. If you’re interested in more about Caribbean culture than just its music, the Reggae Festival has you covered. There will be authentic Caribbean cuisine and, for the adults, cocktails.

Newport Reggae Festival

The Festival will be held on Saturday, August 9th. The gates open at noon, the music starts at 12:30, and the show goes on rain or shine. If it does rain, however, the main stage is underneath a large, waterproof tent.

Tickets are $50 if they are bought the day-of, but are only $35 if bought before July 25th. To learn more about the Reggae Festival, visit their site, or visit the Newport Yachting Center at 4 Commercial Wharf in Newport.

The Newport Reggae Festival is sure to please crowds of all ages!  It won’t matter whether you are a well seasoned Reggae music fan or if you just like some good music, this festival will be well worth the trip!