Dallas Reggae Festival is coming to Texas Spring 2023

Palm trees in Dallas, Texas? Not likely, but this spring you just may feel like you’re on a tropical beach in Addison Circle Park. Situated in far North Dallas, the annual Dallas Reggae Festival promises to bring the feel of the Caribbean islands back to the heart of North Texas with a message of one love and a party that spans April 7th, 8th and 9th.  

Sporting a musical lineup that seems to outdo itself each year, 2023 is shaping up to be no exception. The DRF likes reggae of all kinds, so you can expect to see a mix of reggae performers hailing from overseas, across the U.S. and some amazing local bands from right here in DFW. Last year’s festival had Jamaican roots-reggae legends Don Carlos and Anthony B grace the stage along with Lutan Fyah, Third World and the beautiful Hempress Sativa. The vibe was joined by local acts Audic Empire, Idoljob and Burning Slow with many others representing the Texas reggae flavor throughout the weekend as well. This year’s roster features some heavy-hitters such as Bermuda’s own Collie Buddz, Fortunate Youth from California, and South Florida’s Artikal Sound System! Local heroes Idoljob and Burning Slow will be returning to the stage this year accompanied by newcomers Eli-Mac, Jesse Royal and Sister Nancy from Kingston Jamaica (you’d be smart to keep your eye on the D’RAS & Sharac Band as well!) Many additional artists to be announced soon.

Aside from the top-shelf schedule of musicians performing, the festival is known for showcasing a plethora of stunning visual artists, craft artisans and jewelry vendors, with the island experience not stopping there; your senses will be blessed with the smell of African and Caribbean-inspired food trucks lined up on the scene, so it’s best to bring a big appetite as well.   

You can’t have love without family, so make sure to bring the kiddos along too! The entire event is very family friendly and youth attendance is highly encouraged. In a quote from the festival’s website, DRF promoter Mike Frakaz says, “Reggae music brings us together, unites communities, and serves as a rallying cry when everything else seems to fall on deaf ears. The goal is to unite the audience with performers from many different generations. We want people to escape to the islands for a few hours.” 

Hotels and Airbnb accommodations are aplenty, many being within walking distance to the festival grounds. Be sure to pack your lawn chairs and picnic blankets, the event does not allow in-and-outs, so get comfy! If you’re from North Texas, you know what spring can bring; along with the beautiful new flowers, severe weather likes to bloom and show you who’s really in control. Fingers crossed it’s nothing but sunshine and 75 degrees all three days, but it’s best to be prepared with a plan in the event of a storm…

The 2023 Dallas Reggae Festival is held at Addison Circle Park, April 7th, 8th and 9th. General Advance 3-day tickets are $65.00, while single day passes run $15.00 for Friday and $30 for Saturday or Sunday (plus applicable fees.) Get your tickets here and stay tuned to @dallasreggaefest on Instagram for future artist announcements. Let’s get Irie!

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