Organisers expect ‘epic’ 2026 Jazz Festival

The highly anticipated Soufriere Jazz 2026 festival, officially branded ‘The Ultimate Experience,’ was formally launched on February 8th at Hotel Chocolat in Soufriere, Saint Lucia. This premier musical extravaganza represents one of the island’s most significant cultural celebrations, forming an integral part of the broader Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts calendar.

Ernest Sam Augier, Executive Chairman of the Soufriere Regional Development Foundation (SRDF)—the organization overseeing both the event and local natural attractions like Sulphur Springs Park—characterized the upcoming festival as ‘epic’ during his keynote address. Augier emphasized the event’s historical significance while promising an unparalleled experience for attendees in 2026.

‘Soufriere Jazz has consistently delivered monumental performances within an extraordinary ambiance, and this year will certainly maintain that distinguished tradition,’ Augier declared. While the main concert is scheduled for May 2nd, organizers are curating an entire weekend immersion, including a special preliminary event on May 1st and an exclusive post-concert breakfast at Sulphur Springs on May 3rd.

The Soufriere Events Management Organization (SEMO) continues its four-year partnership with SRDF to actualize the festival. Windia Jaunia of SEMO reaffirmed their dedication to producing exceptional quality while creating meaningful opportunities for local talent and small businesses. This year’s theme, ‘The Ultimate Experience,’ embodies their commitment to crafting unforgettable moments through atmospheric connection and premium production values.

The 2026 lineup features a historic reunion of two legendary Saint Lucian bands—Boo & the Tru Tones and Reasons Orchestra, led by Gregory Piper. The festival will showcase reggae artist Meshach, Groovy Monarch Imran Nerdy, soca sensations Ezra D Fun Machine and Arthur Allain, alongside musical collective DYP.

International talent includes Trinidad’s soca star Voice, Guadeloupe’s 1T1, and Grammy-winning reggae icon Gramps Morgan of Morgan Heritage fame as the headline performer. The complete festival experience is set to unfold at Soufriere Mini Stadium on May 2nd, promising an extraordinary celebration of Caribbean musical excellence.