‘Come Ketch Di Riddim’ - Impressive list of events planned for Reggae Month

Reggae Month 2025 is set to be an extraordinary celebration, honouring the legacy of reggae icons while spotlighting emerging talent and expanding events beyond the Corporate Area.

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, on Tuesday outlined an impressive list of events that will take place during the month, under the theme 'Come Ketch Di Riddim'.

"This Reggae Month promises to be a spectacular celebration of our music and culture. Let us showcase why Jamaica is the heartbeat of the world," Grange said in a statement to Parliament.

Reggae Month was declared a national observance in 2008. In addition to celebrating global movement that unites people through rhythm and powerful lyrics, the month also commemorates the birth anniversaries of two of Jamaica's most revered artistes -- Dennis Brown, on February 1, and Bob Marley, on February 6.

"As we approach Reggae Month 2025, we want to honour the icons who built this timeless genre, amplify the voices shaping it today, and invest in the stars who will carry it into the future. It's more than a celebration. Reggae is not just for entertainment or for fun. It's a lifestyle. It's a movement of Jah people. It is our bread and butter," Grange said.

The schedule for Reggae Month 2025 is both impressive and diverse, offering a rich line-up of events that celebrate Jamaica's musical heritage. The festivities commence this Saturday, February 1, with a tribute to Dennis Brown at his resting place in National Heroes' Park, marking his 68th birthday anniversary.

On Sunday, February 2, the Reggae Month Church Service at Fellowship Tabernacle will bring together worshippers for prayer, praise, and thanksgiving.

A major highlight of the celebrations is the Bob Marley Tribute Concert, set for February 6 at Emancipation Park, in honour of the reggae legend's 80th birthday. This event will feature performances from Bushman, Warrior King, Aza Lineage, and other prominent Jamaican artistes. The concert will also showcase headliners Julian Marley and Skip Marley, alongside international acts such as Anti-Doping, from Mexico, and Nonpalidece, from Argentina, underscoring reggae's global influence.

Negril will be a hub of activities in western Jamaica, with events such as the Wavz One Love Music and Jerk Weekend Fest from February 7 to 9, followed by Love at Woodstock on Valentine's Day, which will feature the legendary band Third World.