Reggae returns to Cayuga Lake, reviving Ithaca Reggae Fest at Stewart Park June 26–28. The weekend celebrates how music bridges gaps in human connection and unites often-divided communities.
The Jamaican influence behind the festival makes it not only family-friendly, but a meaningful tribute to the legacy of reggae music. Featuring 10 Ft. Ganja Plant and Jesse Royal on Saturday, June 27, followed by Third World and The Skatalites on Sunday, June 28, and a free block party on Friday, June 26, the event promises a weekend that immerses attendees in culture, leaving them enriched and connected.
The weekend begins with a free Friday block party on June 26 from 5–9 p.m. at Stewart Park’s Large Pavilion, benefiting Starlight Jamaica and featuring live performances, DJ sets, local food vendors, and complimentary ice cream. DJ The Night Nurse of WPKN’s Rockers Arena will close out the evening, following performances by Cha Cha & the Notorious Stringbusters, DJ Ziggy, and the GIAC Jumpers.
On Saturday, June 27, Ithaca Reggae Fest returns to Stewart Park from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. with a full day of music and activities, with a zen-inspired morning of yoga with Yoga Farm Ithaca leading 108 Sun Salutations to open the day, followed by a Gayogo̱hó꞉nǫ’ Cultural Celebration, honoring the region’s Indigenous heritage and an afternoon of reggae, culture, and laid-back vibes. Additionally, taking the stage are Third World, The Skatalites, and a full lineup of reggae talent including Strykers Posse, Mosaic Foundation, iGNiTE!, Road Man, RDF, and DJ ART-V.
On Sunday, June 28, from 9 AM to 10 PM with a full day programming, beginning with morning yoga led by Yoga Farm Ithaca and a free breakfast before music starts around 1 PM. The final day features performances from Third World and The Skatalites, alongside Strykers Posse, Mosaic Foundation, iGNiTE!, Road Man, RDF, and DJ ART-V, closing out the weekend with a diverse lineup of reggae talent.
The festival will also feature a Skateboard Village, highlighted by the 5th Annual Flat Attack US Pro/Am Championships of Flatland Freestyle Skateboarding at the Stewart Park tennis courts. Open to the public with no festival ticket required, the weekend includes free practice sessions, competitions, and additional contests with prizes for local and regional skaters. Children under 16 are admitted free with a ticket-holding parent or guardian on Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28.
In addition to the music, the festival will host a range of local food and craft vendors, bringing together Caribbean-inspired eats and artisanal creations. Tickets for Ithaca Reggae Fest are available now here.
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