Reggae Vibes and Jerk Flavors Set to Take Over Kansas City!
Kansas City is buzzing with excitement as the popular Reggae Music & Jerk Festival makes its much-anticipated return to the Berkley Riverfront Park in 2024! Scheduled from September 13 to 15, this festival isn’t just an event; it’s a vibrant celebration of over 30 years of Jamaican culture and community connections. Mark your calendars, because you won’t want to miss this!
A Rich History and a Bright Future
Since its inception in 1989, this festival has grown significantly, attracting hundreds of thousands of music lovers not just from Kansas City, but from all over the globe. With the help of the Friends of Reggae International, a well-respected Missouri nonprofit, this year’s event promises to provide three full days of extraordinary entertainment. Get ready for an incredible lineup featuring renowned reggae artists, mouthwatering jerk cuisine, and a medley of engaging cultural activities.
A Melodic Lineup
This year, festival-goers can expect a blend of traditional reggae with modern sounds. The lineup is packed with celebrated acts and up-and-coming talent. You will see performances by Tradition Music Society, The Meditations, Kenyatta Hill, Luciano, and so many more. These musicians bring the best of reggae, world music, dancehall, and roots & culture, creating an atmosphere filled with uplifting vibes.
Food, Food, and More Food!
Of course, no reggae festival would be complete without the famed jerk cuisine. Attendees will get to savor the flavors of Jamaica with a traditional jerk food cook-off—a must-see and must-taste event! The Caribbean food court will be buzzing with delicious options all weekend long, ensuring that your taste buds are just as entertained as your ears.
Celebration of Arts and Culture
The festival is more than just music and food; it serves as a rich tapestry of cultural activities. Get ready for captivating poetry readings, lively cultural drum performances, and dazzling dancers representing the heart and soul of Jamaican traditions. There will also be a vibrant marketplace showcasing local artists and handmade products, allowing attendees to take home a piece of the festival with them.
New in 2024: Canna Village & Marijuana Karna
This year introduces an exciting new feature—Canna Village & Marijuana Karna on the Green Stage! Hosted by DJ E and supported by several notable sponsors, this addition promises to be an eye-opener for festival-goers interested in the cannabis culture. It’s all part of embracing diversity and including all aspects of contemporary Jamaican life in a fun and educational environment.
A Call for Togetherness
Dave Clark, the Director of Operations for Friends of Reggae International, emphasizes that the festival embodies unity and diversity. “We invite everyone to join us for a weekend of incredible music, delicious food, and cultural exchange,” he notes. It’s an invitation to celebrate not just reggae and jerk, but the love for community and togetherness.
Don’t Miss Out!
Single-day and weekend passes are available, so grab yours soon and get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable celebration of Jamaican culture. Mark your calendars for September 13-15, and prepare to dance, dine, and dive into the soul of reggae music at the Kansas City Reggae Music & Jerk Festival!
