Music

Even the steaming heat didn’t let Louisvillians resist the annual Kentucky Reggae Fest this Memorial weekend. (Well at least most of them). I went to check out the fest with a couple of my friends on Sunday, just in time to watch the first band of the day, Demolition Crew. It was too hot to dance, but the bands definitely got the many visitors laid back in their lawn chairs to sing along and enjoy the reggae. The cold lemonade shake-ups were a huge hit, and the bar was packed. My friend ordered a specialty drink called Sailor Jerry Reggae Rum Punch, which was “just what you need on a hot day like this at the Reggae Fest!” 

But the fest didn’t end there! There were plenty of vendor tents and stalls that sold all things Caribbean. From dresses, hats and jewelry to drums, flutes, herbal medicine and lots of Bob Marley t-shirts. Not only were there great finds, but at great prices too. Bargaining for a dreadlock hat or the perfect-smelling incense sticks wasn’t a hard task. The reggae music was not the only relaxing factor at the fest; massages were offered along with palm reading for only $10! And for the kids, face painting and a blow up bounce house didn’t seem to upset.

Shahrnaz Javid, who attended the Reggae fest all three days said, “Reggae Fest always seems to be perfect weather which makes for a perfect time! I’d say it’s one of the better festivals Louisville has to offer. I enjoy it every year. This year did not disappoint at all!” And how could it disappoint with the great music and delicious food? The Jamaican Association of Louisville had lots of mouthwatering food to offer. Their president explained what they had cooked for the festival, from Curry Goat and Jerk Chicken to Beef Patties and Fried Plantain. Fair food was also offered for the other less adventurous eaters.

The night ended with the band InnerVision that brought the perfect end to my Sunday night! The sun had gone down which brought out hundreds to dance to the “language of love.” With a perfect balance of reggae rhythm and calming lyrics, not one person left without dancing to the perfect drumbeats. If you missed out this time, don’t miss out on next year’s Kentucky Reggae Festival!