Reggae music is more than just a genre; it’s a movement that celebrates love, unity, and cultural pride. If you’re in the UK and craving some authentic Jamaican and Caribbean vibes, you’re in luck! The UK plays host to some of the most exciting reggae festivals, attracting top talent from across the globe and offering a true taste of island life.
We’ve put together a list of the best reggae festivals in the UK, including what to expect, festival dates and links to each festival.
As this years festival season comes to a close, here are the five best Jamaican and Caribbean reggae festivals in the UK that you can’t miss in 2025.
5 Best Reggae Festivals In The UK
- City Splash
- Reggae Land
- Bournemouth Reggae Weekend
- Notting Hill Carnival
- The Wilkswood Reggae Festival
City Splash
Where: London
When: 26th May, 2025
City Splash is a massive celebration of reggae, dancehall, and African music that brings the heart of Jamaican culture to the streets of London. In 2024, City Splash brought together over 30,000 like-minded music lovers for an unforgettable experience.
Taking place annually in Brockwell Park, this festival boasts a lineup of legendary reggae artists, alongside exciting up-and-coming talent. Past headliners include Beanie Man, Mr Eazi, Chronixx and Koffee.
From authentic Jamaican food stalls to immersive cultural activities, City Splash provides a full-on experience that goes beyond the music. It’s the perfect place to enjoy some irie vibes in the capital.
Why You Should Attend:
- Authentic cultural stalls and activities
- Iconic artists and emerging talent
- Delicious Jamaican food
Reggae Land
Where: Milton Keynes
When: 2nd & 3rd August, 2025
One of the UK’s largest reggae festivals, celebrating reggae culture over two days in Milton Keynes. Featuring multiple stages, over 50 acts, and an incredible sound system, Reggae Land is an unforgettable weekend of music, food, and dancing. Reggae Land never disappoint with their guests, with past headliners including Gyptian, Popcaan, Wayne Wonder, Koffee and Shabba Ranks.
A cultural feast for the senses, and not all about music. With over 70 food traders, you can immerse your tastebuds in the authentic Caribbean flavours; from jerk chicken and curried goat to the freshest seafood dishes, all prepared with love.
Reggae Land truly encapsulates the essence of the Caribbean.
Why You Should Attend:
- Over 50 reggae and dancehall acts
- 3 stages with nonstop music
- Family-friendly with lots of activities
Bournemouth Reggae Weekend
Where: Bournemouth
When: 25th – 27th July, 2025
Bournemouth Reggae Weekender is the perfect seaside reggae festival, offering three days of sun, sea, and reggae beats.
Independently run, this reggae festival provides a unique occasion to celebrate the diverse African-Caribbean culture and heritage in Bournemouth.
Past performing guests in include Rayna Ebony, Stylo G and Christopher Ellis. But it’s not just about music at the Bournemouth Reggae Weekender, the festival also places a focus on performing arts such as poetry, storytelling and even dance workshops.
With a laid-back beach vibe, this event is all about good music, good food, and positive energy. The lineup includes reggae legends and local talent, giving you a true mix of classic and contemporary sounds.
With its stunning location, Bournemouth Reggae Weekender is an ideal summer escape for reggae lovers.
Why You Should Attend:
- South Coast location
- Dance workshops available
- Fantastic variation of performing arts
The Wilkswood Reggae Festival
Where: Dorset
When: 24th – 27th July, 2025
The Wilkswood Reggae Festival is a hidden gem located in the picturesque Purbeck Valley, Dorset. This family-friendly festival offers an intimate reggae experience in the beautiful countryside.
With three stages featuring roots, dub, and dancehall, it’s a haven for true reggae enthusiasts. The festival also offers camping options, making it a perfect weekend escape for families or groups of friends looking to enjoy reggae music in a more relaxed and natural setting.
Across the festivals four days, there will be over 50 live performances from singers and DJs, to dancers and poets – the Wilkswood Reggae Festival is a perfect blend of nature and culture.
Why You Should Attend:
- Scenic countryside setting
- Family-friendly with camping options
- Dedicated stages for roots, dub, and dancehall
Notting Hill Carnival
Where: London
When: August Bank Holiday Weekend
It wouldn’t be a list of reggae festivals without the iconic Notting Hill Carnival. Although it’s best known as Europe’s biggest street festival, Notting Hill Carnival has deep reggae roots, and offers a whole lot more than just music!
With multiple sound systems playing reggae, dancehall, and soca music, it’s a must-attend event for fans of Caribbean culture.
This two-day celebration sees the streets of West London filled with vibrant costumes, incredible music, and delicious Caribbean food. Whether you’re there for the parade or the reggae stages, Notting Hill Carnival is an iconic event that brings the best of Jamaica to the UK.
A pure cultural celebration, and a must-visit festival.
Why You Should Attend:
- Europe’s biggest street festival
- Multiple stages dedicated to reggae
- Free, community-driven event
Whether you’re in the heart of London or exploring the seaside or countryside, the UK offers an array of reggae festivals that will transport you straight to Jamaica and the Caribbean. These reggae festivals in the UK each bring something unique to the table, from the vibrant street scenes of Notting Hill Carnival to the intimate vibes of Wilkswood. Wherever you go, you can be sure you’ll find amazing music, incredible food, and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that captures the true spirit of reggae, and African-Caribbean culture.
Ready to experience the best of Jamaican and Caribbean culture in the UK? Mark your calendars and get your tickets now!
