Cali Roots 2026: Day Two

Saturday, May 23rd kicked off Day Two of year 15 for the California Roots festival at the famous Monterey Fairgrounds. Fans were lined up and running to the rail, right at daybreak, ready to listen and vibe to all the wonderful bands the day had in store.

Benny Ranks kicked the day off on the Bowl Stage with original music, as well as some covers.

All the early day fans were dancing and singing along to the whole set before Aireq Jonsin started off the Cali Roots Stage across the way. Then came a solo acoustic set from Pepper‘s Kaleo Wassman back on the Bowl Stage, with all attendees singing along. Next up was Cali reggae staple Through the Roots, before Cydeways and and Zion Marley kept the vibe going into midday. Fans couldn’t get enough, especially with a grandchild of the one and only Bob Marley performing in the flesh.

As the day progressed, Sons of Zion and roots reggae veteran Barrington Levy kept the traditions of the genre high, before reggae rock favorites Fortunate Youth took over packing the Bowl (dual meaning very much intended here). Even before the giant blunts were lit, the air was good and smoky. As always, Fortunate Youth was joined by members of other bands and artists; it’s always a family affair! 

Jamaican roots band Burning Spear was up next on the Cali Roots Stage as the evening set in.

The always theatrical J Boog performed as direct support at the Bowl next, leading to the one-person-extraordinaire Tash Sultana closed out the Cali Roots Stage. Juggling guitar, trumpet, beatboxing, and more into trancy loops, Tash Sultana is always incredible to witness. Of course, it wouldn’t be Cali Roots without Rebelution at night closing out the Bowl Stage, with their signature lights and lasers shining bright into the night air. 

All in all, it was another amazing day in Monterey and all of us couldn’t wait for what Day Three had in store. Stay tuned for final day coverage!

Photography by Sean McCracken

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