Reggae Month 2026: Jamaica Turns the Volume Up on Its Greatest Cultural Export

Every February, Jamaica pauses to honor the rhythm that changed the world. In 2026, Reggae Month returns bigger, bolder, and more intentional than ever—marking its 17th staging with over 60 events, a renewed focus on legacy, and a strong gaze toward the future of the genre.

This year’s celebration is headlined by a historic appointment: Etana has been named the first-ever official Reggae Month Ambassador. The announcement, made by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport, signals a shift toward deeper storytelling, global outreach, and a stronger bridge between roots reggae and contemporary voices.

Etana: A “Strong One” at the Helm

Known worldwide as the Strong One, Etana’s role goes beyond ceremonial appearances. As ambassador, she will actively champion reggae’s social message, cultural power, and global relevance throughout February and beyond. Her selection reflects reggae’s enduring connection to truth, resilience, and conscious expression—values Etana has carried consistently in her music and activism.

Her presence also underscores a broader narrative unfolding this year: reggae is not frozen in time. It is alive, evolving, and still speaking to the world.

A Sacred Start & Timeless Tributes

Reggae Month 2026 opens on February 1 with a traditional church service, grounding the month in the spiritual roots that helped shape reggae’s sound and philosophy.

Shortly after, attention turns to Heroes Park for a heartfelt tribute to Dennis Brown, widely revered as the Crown Prince of Reggae. The tribute honors not just his catalog but also his influence on generations of artists who followed—many of whom credit Brown’s vocal style and emotional depth as foundational.

February 6: Bob Marley Lives On

No Reggae Month is complete without honoring its most globally recognized icon. On February 6, Emancipation Park becomes the epicenter of remembrance and celebration for Bob Marley.

The annual Marley concert remains one of the most anticipated events on the cultural calendar, and this year features a special appearance by Stephen Marley, continuing the Marley legacy through bloodline and sound.

Over 60 Events, One Living Culture

From panel discussions and school programs to live concerts, exhibitions, and sound system clashes, Reggae Month 2026 is designed to meet audiences wherever they are—locally and across the diaspora.

A major highlight this year is Dancehall Week, running from February 22 to March 1, acknowledging dancehall as reggae’s rebellious, energetic offspring and a genre that has shaped global pop culture, fashion, and slang.

This inclusion reflects a more honest cultural conversation: reggae and dancehall are intertwined, each telling different chapters of Jamaica’s story.

Roots, Recognition, and the Road Ahead

Reggae Month 2026 is not just a celebration; it’s a reminder. A reminder that reggae is education. Reggae is resistance. Reggae is healing. And reggae is still writing its future.

With Etana as ambassador, expanded programming, and a clear effort to honor pioneers while uplifting new voices, Jamaica is once again asserting ownership of its most powerful cultural export.

For one full month—and long after the final bassline fades—the world will be reminded where the heartbeat of reggae truly lives.

By Dante Jackson, Entertainment Editor