Reggae Royalty Takes Center Stage in South Florida at Reggae Genealogy® 2026

Three reggae legends, one cinematic night—Reggae Genealogy® 2026 lights up South Florida with music, culture, and legacy.

Crowd singing along to reggae hits. Photo courtesy Island Space Caribbean Museum

South Florida is set to turn up the volume as Reggae Genealogy® Music Festival returns on Saturday, February 7, 2026, bringing together music, film, and cultural storytelling for one unforgettable night in Plantation. Presented by Island SPACE Caribbean Museum, the festival officially kicks off Reggae Month in South Florida and promises to be the most ambitious edition yet.

Under the theme “Lights. Camera. Reggae.”, Volunteer Park will transform into a vibrant soundstage celebrating reggae’s powerful influence across film, television, gaming, and global pop culture. More than 3,000 attendees are expected for the immersive outdoor experience, which blends live performances, multimedia visuals, and intergenerational storytelling.

Island SPACE 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award Honorees Mr. Vegas, Sly Dunbar and Leroy Sibbles. Photo courtesy Island Space Caribbean Museum

Honoring Three Legends Who Shaped Reggae History

At the heart of Reggae Genealogy® 2026 is the presentation of Lifetime Achievement Awards to three icons whose contributions span decades and genres: Mr. Vegas, Sly Dunbar, and Leroy Sibbles.

Mr. Vegas burst onto the global stage in the late 1990s with chart-topping hits like “Heads High” and “Nike Air.” Known for his explosive energy and versatility, the celebrated singjay has seamlessly fused dancehall, reggae, and gospel throughout a career that includes a MOBO Award, Billboard recognition, and performances across the world. Nearly three decades in, Mr. Vegas continues to evolve while staying rooted in message-driven music and undeniable rhythm.

Sly Dunbar, one half of the legendary duo Sly & Robbie, is widely regarded as one of the most influential drummers in reggae history. His unmistakable sound helped define reggae, rocksteady, and dancehall, with credits spanning Bob Marley, Junior Murvin, Grace Jones, and countless others. A two-time Grammy Award winner with over a dozen nominations, Dunbar’s innovative rhythms have shaped generations of music far beyond Jamaica.

Leroy Sibbles, the soulful voice and bassist behind The Heptones, is a foundational figure in reggae’s evolution. As a Studio One stalwart, his vocals on classics like “Book of Rules” and “Party Time” helped bridge ska and reggae, while his basslines laid the groundwork for iconic riddims such as “Full Up” and “Satta Massagana.” His influence as a singer, songwriter, arranger, and musician remains deeply woven into reggae’s DNA.

A Night Where Music Meets Film, Culture, and Community

Hosted by acclaimed actress Audrey Reid—best known for her role in Dancehall Queen—the evening will unfold as a cinematic journey through reggae’s cultural impact. The program opens with a tribute to Jimmy Cliff, honoring reggae’s enduring relationship with film and storytelling.

Live performances will feature Tifa, Phil Watkis, Roy G, and Bobby Rose, backed by Code Red Band, with music throughout the night from Bigg G, DJ King Mega, and pre-show host Frank!e Red.

Beyond the main stage, Reggae Genealogy® offers a full cultural experience, including:

• An intimate fireside chat with Leroy Sibbles

• A children’s play zone

• Caribbean food trucks and artisan vendors

• A corporate circle designed for networking and community connection

  
  

“This year’s production is a love letter to the soundtracks of our lives,” said Calibe Thompson, Executive Director of Island SPACE Caribbean Museum. “We’re honoring the cultural moments that brought reggae into homes, clubs, theaters, and hearts around the world.”

Event Details

Reggae Genealogy® Music Festival 2026

Volunteer Park, Plantation, FL

Saturday, February 7, 2026

Gates open at 4:00 p.m. | Main program begins at 6:00 p.m.

Tickets are available now at reggaegenealogy.org/tickets

• General Admission: $30 (presale)

• VIP: $80

• Children: $10

The event is made possible with support from the City of Plantation, Broward County Cultural Division, Florida Power & Light, Grace Foods, and Inner Circle / Bigg Zound.

For real-time updates, follow Island SPACE Caribbean Museum on Instagram—and get ready for a night where reggae’s past, present, and future take center stage in the 954.