Against the backdrop of resilience and recovery, the Wickie Wackie Music Festival (WWMF) gears up to return for its third year, defying the challenges posed by the recent storm. As an officially endorsed event of Reggae Month, the festival will once again transform Bull Bay’s iconic black sand shores into a vibrant stage of cultural celebration from February 12 to 14, 2026. From emerging talent to legendary acts, this year’s “Future, Fyah, Foundation” theme carries new meaning as we honor those who built the foundation we stand on.
“Curating the lineup for the Wickie Wackie Music Festival is actually a blessing,” shares Kumar Bent, festival co-founder. “We aim to create a lineup that truly showcases our rich culture; it’s organic, it’s authentic, it’s conscious roots reggae. Also our hearts are heavy yet filled with gratitude as we honor the legendary Stephen “Cat” Coore of Third World, who graced the Wickie Wackie stage the past two years and was set to return once more. Cat’s extraordinary talent, warmth, and spirit remains our North Star!”
The festival kicks off with the “Future” on Thursday, February 12, spotlighting emerging talent from our “Unda Da Almond Tree” sister series. Performers such as Jah Vezel, Ineezi, Cungo1, Dhavid Slur, Jônelle, Spechinal, and Sashoné, along with the Affirmation Band, will grace the stage, showcasing the vibrant future of Jamaican music. This year, we proudly feature from Germany, the ‘reggaecore’ band Rhaatid, singer/songwriter Toke, and the soundsystem SoundQuake. Jamaica’s own YaadCore, T’Jean, and MediSun will headline the evening, promising performances that illuminate a musical future that demands to be heard. Uncle Ronnie closes the night with a strictly vinyl selection, welcoming home the Vinyl Thursday crew—a roots party born in Kingston that found a second home in Germany. In this heartfelt family reunion, Soundquake and King Harrar Sound channel the spirit of classic soundsystem dance with artists and toasters that recall the golden era of Stonelove and Studio One.
To showcase our deep reverence for soundsystem culture, Uncle Ronnie has invited SoundWave to bring their massive stacks of analog equipment, ensuring a sonic experience with rich bass that will excite festival-goers throughout the weekend.
As Friday, February 13, commences, the “Fyah” theme ignites with a classic roots dance and Soundsystem Culture Clash. The night bursts with energy as Gabre Selassie from Kingston Dub Club hits the stacks with vocalists like Daweh Congo & Ras Shiloh. The fiery evening peaks with a Roots Culture Clash, pitting SoundWave Sound against CaveMan Sound.
On Saturday, February 14, the “Foundation” theme pays homage through legendary live band performances. Kumar Fyah plans to deliver a standout set alongside luminaries like Etana and Turbulence. Reggae Ambassadors Third World will take the stage to celebrate Cat Coore’s life, artistry, and the indelible mark he left on reggae music and all who were blessed to witness his gift. Honoring the foundation will also include performances by The Abyssinians, Billy Mystic and selections from Rory StoneLove. This year’s festival will also provide an opportunity for students of Reggae music to perform alongside legends. The Alpha School of Music will present a special Latin Jazz showcase and the Tourism Entertainment Academy will give us a peek into what musicians can learn with support from TEF.
Kumar leaves us with, “And you know Wickie Wackie always has a few unannounced musical surprises”
As we unveil our full 2026 lineup, we do so with Cat Coore’s spirit guiding us—reminding us why we gather, why we celebrate, and why this music matters. With accessible ticket pricing reflecting the belief that music is healing, WWMF stands as a symbol of unity and cultural richness in the face of adversity.
In partnership with Let’s Go Camping Jamaica, the festival adds another layer of enchantment, offering a unique beachfront camping experience. As the sun rises, meditation, yoga, and drumming circles create a soothing atmosphere that welcomes the day, ensuring a family-friendly environment for all ages
With a “premium yet accessible” allure, WWMF embraces conscious consumers, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with island craft vendors, authentic yaad food, and tropical libations. This enticing mix makes it a cultural haven for those seeking to soak up both the artistic and culinary delights of Jamaica. Located just a short drive from the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, WWMF beckons global attendees who seek both cultural depth and coastal tranquility.
For those eager to immerse themselves in this harmonious experience, detailed information about camping packages and ticket options is available at www.wickiewackiemusicfest.com. Physical tickets can also be found at various Jamaican locations, including Cooyah, Kamila Kitchen (Marketplace & Drax Hall), Jacana (Manor Park & New Kingston), Kingston DubClub, Alpha School of Music, Rituals Café, Pon Top Grill, and Jamnesia.
Join the Wickie Wackie Music Festival as it weaves a tale of musical richness and cultural unity, inviting all to dance upon the sands where history, community, and passion converge. A portion of our proceeds go to Hurricane Melissa Recovery.
