Fully-loaded Barbados Reggae Weekend in April

For over 20 years, reggae enthusiasts have traditionally been guaranteed world-class experiences in April. Building on that legacy, the inaugural April 26-29 Barbados Reggae Weekend which coincides with National Heroes Day on April 28 at the National Botanical Gardens, was officially launched on Wednesday night at the Sandals Resort Ballroom.

Assuring quality entertainment, director Ryan Brathwaite announced the star-studded lineup slated to set the stage ablaze. The opening night will be a special treat for vintage reggae aficionados. Legends of Reggae boasts a stellar cast featuring icons such as Admiral Tibet, Pinchers, Sanchez, and Eric Donaldson. A highlight of that night will be a special Bajan old dub session, featuring performances by favourites known for their chanting prowess – Lil Rick, Peter Ram, Kid Site, Ranking Rickey, Daddy Plume, and Natahlee.

The excitement continues to soar with The Showdown the following day delivering electrifying performances by highly acclaimed artistes like Sizzla Kalonji, Chronic Law, Jah Vinci, Kranium, Byron Messia and local sensation Brutal Crankstar.

Reggae in the Gardens on the third day is a family-oriented event with free general admission for children up to age 15. The audience will be treated to another extraordinary musical showcase headlined by Morgan Heritage, who will pay a heartfelt tribute to the late lead singer Peter Peetah Morgan. Sure to impress are the legendary UB40, Queen Ifrica, Ghost, Masicka, and the soulful Tessanne Chin, with Rite Side of Red representing Barbados. 

As a bonus, season ticket holders will have complimentary access to the Reggae Wavez cruise on the MC Buccaneer and M. Inspire on National Heroes Day. Only a limited number of tickets are available for purchase for the final event.

The event organisers have also partnered with the Barbados Lottery to offer both general and VIP patrons the opportunity to win cash rewards. Brathwaite revealed that the first thousand general patrons at each event will receive complimentary lottery tickets, with a chance to win $9 000, while the first 400 VIP guests have a chance to win prizes of up to $40 000.  A partnership with InterCaribbean Airways offers Barbados Reggae Weekend specials in April. A direct flight will be available from Jamaica.

Another strategic alliance has been forged with the St Maarten Tourism Bureau. Jacqueline Louis, CEO of IMBRACE Group, the marketing firm promoting the island in the Caribbean, announced that season pass holders would be eligible to win an all-inclusive weekend for two to the country. The vacation package includes roundtrip tickets, hotel accommodation, for three nights and four days, transportation to and from the airport, all meals, an excursion, and a fun package which includes a variety of giveaways. (STT)