Reggae Month 2025 will be observed in February under the theme: ‘Come Ketch Di Riddim’.
Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Minister, Olivia Grange, made the disclosure during a statement in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (January 28).
She informed that Reggae Month events will not be only concentrated within the Corporate Area, and that this year, the ministry will build on its partnership in the West, particularly in Negril, with events such as the Wavz One Love Music and Jerk Weekend Fest, scheduled for February 7 to 9.
“We invite Jamaicans and the people of the world to embrace the reggae vibe. It’s a spirit that resonates through the rhythm and the impactful lyrics of our talented artistes,” Grange said.
The minister pointed out that the events will provide both locals and tourists with the opportunity to enjoy live Reggae music every day.
“We continue the tradition of showcasing Reggae through a full slate of events organised by the Reggae Month Secretariat, the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), the Institute of Jamaica, and other agencies of the Ministry of Culture,” she noted.
Additionally, Grange said support is being offered to numerous commemorative events produced by independent organisers, including the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JaRIA), with whom there is a shared long-standing and mutually beneficial relationship.
The month of activities will commence on Saturday, February 1, with a tribute to the Crown Prince of Reggae, Dennis Brown, at his resting place in National Heroes’ Park, celebrating his 68th birthday.
On Sunday, February 2, the Reggae Month Church Service at Fellowship Tabernacle will offer prayer, praise, and thanksgiving.
The Bob Marley Tribute Concert, scheduled for February 6 at Emancipation Park, will celebrate the 80th anniversary of the legendary icon’s birth.
“An impressive list of performers will take the stage, with headliners being Julian Marley and Skip Marley and the entire Marley family is expected to be there, including the matriarch Rita Marley,” Grange said.
As previously mentioned, Negril will come alive with events like the Wavz One Love Music and Jerk Weekend Fest (February 7 to 9) and Love at Woodstock Negril on Valentine’s Day, featuring Third World.
Grange also noted that the Island Music Conference returns from February 20 to 22 and will be hosted by reggae artiste Shaggy.
She informed that Reggae singer Marica Griffiths will be honoured for her 60 years in the business with the presentation of an icon award.
Additionally, educational initiatives such as the Grounation lecture series by the Jamaica Music Museum and symposia will provide spaces for meaningful dialogue about reggae’s role in the culture and industry.
“I also wish to announce that I will be launching part two of the Jamaica entertainment and cultural practitioners’ insurance plan. This launch will focus on the health insurance component,” Grange said.
Reggae Month was declared a national observation in 2008 by the Governor General.
