Fortunate Youth closes out Reggae on the Creek Fest in style

If there was one word to describe this year’s Reggae on the Creek festival — unity. On May 9th, music fans gathered at Green River Taproom in Winters, California for a full day of reggae rhythms, delicious food, craft vendors, and heartfelt community. This family-friendly fest packed a diverse lineup, showcasing both rising artists and reggae veterans, wrapped in a laidback atmosphere.

RotC has become a hallmark of Northern California’s reggae scene.

And the 2026 event was headlined by none other than fan-favorite, Fortunate Youth. Attendees transformed the venue into one massive singalong along as staples like “Good Times Roll On”, “Peace, Love and Unity”, and “Sweet Sensi” were rolled out one after another. Speaking of rolling out, Fortunate Youth‘s ability to connect with audiences remains one of the band’s greatest strengths and, true to form, the band welcomed guests up onstage including Marlon Asher, Anora, Pipe Down, and One Sharp Mind. The all-star performance felt less like a concert and more like a family reunion, with musicians feeding off each other’s energy while the crowd responded with nonstop cheers and dancing.

Ending in this manner was a complete festival experience in and of itself, not to mention the abundance of local craft vendors showcasing handmade goods throughout the venue. The Green River Taproom kept attendees fed with its popular grilled menu and house cocktails. A Jamaican jerk food vendor also earned rave reviews from hungry reggae lovers looking for authentic island flavors. Sponsors for the fest included The Bright Spot and Stoner Brands, who helped contribute to the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that attendees have come to expect. 

One of the festival’s biggest strengths continues to be its accessibility for the average person.

With free admission for children under 12, Reggae on the Creek remains an affordable option for families, offering music, food, and culture that appeals to all ages. At a time when many music festivals are becoming increasingly expensive and commercialized, Reggae on the Creek stays focused on what matters most: great music, local community, and positive vibes. Judging from the smiles on faces throughout the day and the packed crowd dancing well into the evening, it’s clear the fest’s formula continues to work. For one Saturday in Winters, reggae music brought everyone together — and that’s exactly what festivals like this are all about.

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