Reggae Sumfest, world’s biggest reggae music festival returns to Montego Bay for 27th year

Montego Bay will once again bring together reggae music fans for a week of festivities July 14th though 20th for Reggae Sumfest 2019. The 7-night lineup, organized by Downsound Entertainment and sponsored by the Jamaica Tourist Board, features a combination of themed parties throughout the week and two epic festival nights showcasing reggae’s best talent.

As a cherry on top UNESCO recently designated reggae music as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Reggae music’s “contribution to international discourse on issues of injustice, resistance, love and humanity underscores the dynamics of the element as being at once cerebral, socio-political, sensual and spiritual” explains the UNESCO announcement. Donovan White, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, commented on the designation and this year’s festival with the following:  “It’s been a historic year for both tourist arrivals and Reggae music, and we are thrilled to host this premier music festival again,” he said. “Reggae Sumfest continues to add unprecedented value to Jamaica, the birthplace of the music genre, as it offers one of the most authentic cultural experiences on the island for locals and visitors alike.”

On that exciting note, here’s the breakdown of events:

July 14 – Mornin’ Medz Brunch Party, $45 + fees

Beach Chic morning brunch party with entertainment at Tropical Bliss Beach, doors will open at 6am. That’s right, so you can continue the night before into the sunrise with class.

July 15 – Street Dance Party, Free

The Way Wild Sumfest Street Dance open to everyone ready to party 7pm to 2am. The event offers a full bar and and entertainment at the Old Hospital Park on the Hip Strip.

July 16 – All White Party, $30 + fees

For many an annual favourite Tuesday is an All White Party hosts at Pier One Restaurant and Bar, offering fantastic views on the water.

July 17 – Blitz All Black Party / Bunji Garlin’s Birthday Celebration, $55 + fees

Hosted at the Hard Rock Cafe this is an all black event featuring guest stars and promising some hot entertainment. Doors open at 8pm, food is inclusive with cash bar, Pier One Event Center

July 18 – Global Sound Clash, $30 + fees

This evening will bring out a few heavy hitters from around the world: Japan’s Yard Beat, Canada’s King Turbo (a previous World Clash Champion), Germany’s Warrior Sound, and Jamaica’s own Ricky Trooper and Pink Panther! This, is a battle you will not want to miss. Doors at 8pm, cash bar. More info here.

July 19 – Festival Night 1, $45 and up

One of the two main events Friday night will feature the likes of Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Spice, Agent Sasco, Shane E, and many more. The event runs all night at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Centre.

July 20 – Festival Night 2, $55 and up

For the closing night Sumfest will bring out on stage heavy hitters like Buju Banton, Protoje, Romain Virgo, Christopher Martin, Beres Hammond, Jah 9, Dalton Harris, and Etana. The event also runs all night at the Catherine Hall Entertainment Centre.

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All tickets can be found here and include single day tickets, weekend combo tickets, and a full festival pass.

Reggae Sumfest will be live streamed so even if you can’t join you can still enjoy the festivities from afar. In the meanwhile to help you get in the mood we’ve created a playlist with all artists participating this year.