The scenic nature setting of Humboldt County in Northern California has been a perfect backdrop for roots, rock, reggae since 1984. That region is the home of Reggae On The River which has its 36th staging August 1–3.

First held in 1984 as a charity event, the show has honoured its humanitarian origins and showcased major reggae acts such as Burning Spear, Israel Vibration and The Mighty Diamonds. It also exposed artistes who were on the verge of breaking into the big time.

This year’s show has Alborosie, Charly Black, Fantan Mojah, Luciano, Pato Banton, Yellowman, Keznamdi, Andrew Bees, Tristan Palmer and Carlton Livingston on opening day.

The following day, Julian Marley, Tarrus Riley and his Blak Soil Band, Mr. Vegas, I-Octane and Turbulence are among the performers. Closing day has perennial favourites Third World, Busy Signal, T.O.K., Romain Virgo, Bugle, Christopher Ellis and Culture featuring Kenyatta Hill.

King Addies and Jah Works out of New York and Japan will headline a sound system extravaganza, also on the final day.

Julian Marley, who performed at the 2013 Reggae On The River, is looking forward to another appearance.

“It’s always a pleasure to perform at Reggae On The River. Expect good vibrations and electrifying reggae music that complements the stunning surroundings of Humboldt County,” said the Grammy winner.

Reggae won’t be the only drawing card this year. Organisers will introduce the CannaZone, which gives a detailed look at the cannabis industry in the Emerald Triangle which comprises Humboldt, Mendocino and Trinity counties.

Reggae On The River was started 41 years ago by Carol Bruno and Nancy Shelby, at a time when the California roots-reggae community was still growing. It set the pace for other roots gigs in the state, like the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival in Booneville and Cali Vibes, the contemporary festival held in Long Beach.

Bruno died in 2019 from cancer at age 72, but the festival has soldiered on. It returned in 2024 after a two-year absence due to Covid-19.