Dominica’s most beloved cultural music celebration, Jazz ‘n Creole, is preparing to mark its 15th anniversary this spring, with event organizers officially revealing a packed lineup of local fan favorites and acclaimed regional performers that promises a one-of-a-kind experience for attendees.
The Discover Dominica Authority, the event organizer backed by the Government of Dominica which serves as this year’s presenting sponsor, has confirmed the full details of the gathering: the festival will kick off at 2:00 PM on Sunday, May 3, hosted at the scenic open-air location of Cabrits National Park in the northern city of Portsmouth.
In an official press statement, the authority emphasized that Jazz ‘n Creole has grown into a key cultural and economic driver for Dominica’s northern region, consistently drawing international and domestic visitors alike and holding its place as a highlight of the island’s annual events calendar.
This year’s talent roster brings together a dynamic mix of local Dominican artists, regional Caribbean acts, and internationally recognized performers. Headlining the festival are Jamaican reggae and jazz icon Tarrus Riley alongside his renowned group The Blak Soil Band, with legendary saxophonist Dean Fraser also joining the Jamaican contingent. Classic American R&B group The Manhattans will also take the main stage as international headliners. Representing Dominica’s thriving homegrown music scene are fan-favorite acts including Michele Henderson, Lili Octave, Khadija Joseph, Phael, Janea Jackson, the Riddim Knockarz Band, and the Swingin’ Stars.
Under this year’s curated theme “Afro Elegance”, the festival will run across the entire afternoon and evening, designed to offer a fully immersive cultural experience beyond just musical performances. Organizers note that guests can expect a seamless blend of smooth jazz sounds and rhythmic Creole-influenced music, all set against the natural backdrop of Cabrits National Park, with carefully selected cultural displays and activities woven into the day’s schedule.
Beyond the main concert at the national park, a full slate of fringe activities will be hosted across Portsmouth and surrounding nearby communities. Event officials are encouraging all attendees to extend their stay and explore the full range of outdoor and cultural experiences Dominica has to offer, including guided river excursions, world-class snorkeling and diving adventures, horseback riding tours, visits to the island’s famous waterfalls, immersive chocolate plantation tours, rum distillery tastings, and relaxation on Dominica’s unspoiled scenic beaches.
The 15th anniversary iteration of the festival will also shine a spotlight on Dominica’s rich Creole culinary traditions, handcrafted local art, and maintain the event’s long-standing reputation as a welcoming, family-friendly gathering. Organizers have invited all attendees to embrace the “Afro Elegance” theme by wearing clothing that draws inspiration from African and Afro-Caribbean cultural heritage, adding an extra layer of collective celebration to the day.
Marva Williams, CEO of the Discover Dominica Authority, noted that this year’s festival continues the event’s core mission: elevating Portsmouth as a top regional weekend travel destination while creating valuable opportunities for local Dominican artists to perform alongside globally recognized talent.
For attendees planning to join the celebration, tickets are available for purchase online via the official festival website at www.dominicafestivals.com. Physical paper tickets can also be purchased in person at multiple locations: the Discover Dominica Authority’s main office on Great Marlborough Street in Roseau, as well as Depex Color Lab, Bullseye Pharmacy, and Waters Edge in Portsmouth.
Anyone seeking additional updates or more detailed information about the full festival schedule can visit the official website or follow the “Dominica Festivals” accounts on Facebook and Instagram for the latest announcements.