The sounds of reggae are rippling across borders once again as the world comes together today, July 1, to mark International Reggae Day (IRD) 2025 under the theme “One Love. One Voice. One Day.” Now in its 31st year, the global celebration continues to expand its reach, uniting fans, creatives, and media across more than 30 countries in honour of Jamaica’s most powerful cultural export.
“Reggae music emerged from the grassroots and became a soundtrack for justice, unity and truth,” said Andrea Davis, founder and producer of IRD. “This year’s theme reflects the strength of collective action … one love, one voice, one day … amplified across cultures, countries and communities.”
This year’s IRD invites the world to take part in a 24-hour celebration that transcends borders and genres. From Argentina to Zambia, events, tributes, and virtual concerts are spotlighting reggae’s lasting influence. Supporters are encouraged to join the #OneDropChallenge, wear their reggae colours, plant a symbolic reggae tree, or host community tributes.
Co-producer Lisa-Ann O’Gilvie noted the day’s expanding resonance. “IRD isn’t just about a single day. It’s a groundswell. We’re seeing communities across the world, from Asia to the Caribbean to Africa showing up and adding their voice.”
A key moment of unity will take place during the IRD Pull Up at 11:55 a.m. Jamaica time, when radio stations, DJs, and streaming platforms worldwide will simultaneously play Bob Marley’s “One Love” and Dennis Brown’s “Love & Hate”—an audio signal of solidarity in a time of global unrest.
In Jamaica, the celebrations include a full slate of forums and cultural showcases. Hosted in collaboration with JaRIA and Edna Manley College, the local programme features a Music Professionals Only Workshop, a Roadmap for Reggae’s Future panel, and a special event at the Bob Marley Museum as part of the Building A Film Come-Unity series—highlighting the intersection of grassroots storytelling, music, and film.
Kingston’s culture hubs like Tuesday Service Live at The Compound and Kingston Night Market are marking the occasion with immersive live performances, while international partners have lined up their own tributes. In London, the Harlesden Bassline Collective will host walking tours, community circles, and panels on reggae’s influence. In Mexico, PullItUp Radio is running a 24-hour stream and spotlighting 20 local artists from Guadalajara and Mexico City.
This year also sees the presentation of two global honours: the Winnie Mandela Humanitarian Award, launched in 2024 and first awarded to Rita Marley, and the inaugural Peter Tosh Rebel With A Cause Award, presented in partnership with the Peter Tosh Foundation to recognise revolutionary leadership in reggae culture.
As Davis puts it, “International Reggae Day is a powerful reminder of what can happen when music becomes movement.”
