Birmingham’s new reggae and ska festival arrives this month

Birmingham has taken center stage in the global spotlight with the launch of ‘This Town’, a gripping drama series from acclaimed screenwriter Steven Knight that authentically portrays Birmingham’s cultural tapestry and focuses on the Two Tone Ska music scene , the compelling narrative. of the series captivated the audience and showcased the charm and unique character of the city.

Now, Friday 31st May – Sunday 2nd June, the Birmingham International Ska and Reggae Festival comes to Birmingham’s Thornborough Farm to serve as a fitting backdrop to the era’s Two Tone Ska and Reggae music and recapture the city’s dynamic spirit and cultural landscape variously presented in the series.

Set on the outskirts of Birmingham’s Kings Norton and Wythall, the festival will be pulsating with the infectious beats of ska and reggae, featuring an impressive line-up of iconic artists, scroll down to find out more and secure your tickets!

The festival will host a host of original artists from around the world – including Neville Staple (of The Specials), Stranger Cole, The Pioneers, The Ethiopians, The Pyramids-Symarip, Susan Cadogan, The Skatuesques and The Equators – with the addition of two chosen tributes with great care.

As for the lineup, get ready for a musical performance with the legendary The Pioneers, Stranger ColeSymarip, Rhoda Dakar (The Bodysnatchers), The Equators, Basil Gabbidon (Steel Pulse), Kioko, Aka the SyndicateLobster, Natural law, ExodusPyragons, The regulationsDakka Skanks, Lloyd McGrath Collective, CariSoul Vibes, The Island Collective, Luibh Laoch and AfroBians; all of whom will present the rich tapestry of ska and reggae across the festival’s three stages.

Beyond the live music, spectators can immerse themselves in a world of culinary delights with a tempting array of street food. Explore the market traders and vintage stalls, adding an extra layer of vibrancy to the festival atmosphere. Choose between camping facilities for a full festival experience or opt for easy access for non-campers.

Ken Moore, Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival (Thornborough Events): “We are delighted to be hosting this new festival on our beautiful grounds at Thornborough Farm. We look forward to welcoming revelers and performers and hope this will become an annual celebration!”

Mazzy Snape, Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival (Bread Birmingham / The Night Owl), added: “We are excited to host original Jamaican ska and reggae artists like Stranger Cole and Symarip, Two-Tone legend Rhoda Dakar and tons of fresh and current ska and reggae acts like Kioko, Lobster, The AfroBians and many more a lot. The scene is still alive in 2024 and we want it to get stronger and stronger!”

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For more information and some frequently asked questions about the Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival, visit the event page on Skiddle by clicking or tapping – HERE

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Header Image Credit: Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival / Facebook.com

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