The Discover Dominica Authority announced the lineup for the 2025 Jazz ‘n Creole Festival during a virtual launch on Friday, March 28. The festival is set for Sunday, May 4, at Fort Shirley in the Cabrits National Park, featuring an afternoon and evening of jazz, Caribbean rhythms, and cultural experiences, beginning at 2:00 p.m.
This year’s headliners include a mix of local, regional, and international artists.
From Dominica, ColtonT, Swingin’ Stars, Signal Band, Abiyah Israel, Marie Pascale, Shalina, and Carlyn XP, will be gracing the stage. Meanwhile, from the region and beyond will be Jazz trumpeter Etienne Charles from Trinidad and Tobago, opera and jazz singer Marie-Claire Giraud from Dominica and New York, and reggae performer Etana from Jamaica.
A press release from the DDA shared that in preparation for the main event, a series of fringe activities will be held across Dominica, providing both visitors and locals the chance to enjoy intimate jazz performances, cultural showcases, and pre-festival celebrations. Further details will be provided soon.
Attendees are invited to embrace a “Sunset Creole Chic” dress code, inspired by the warm hues of a Dominican sunset, which includes deep coral, rich gold, warm orange, vibrant red, and bright yellow, complemented by shades of peach, magenta, and muted teal. Suggested attire includes flowy dresses, linen outfits, bold prints, and tropical accessories reflecting Caribbean elegance. In addition to music and fashion, festivalgoers can enjoy authentic Creole cuisine, explore local art exhibits, and participate in family-friendly activities, all set against the scenic backdrop of Dominica’s Cabrits National Park.
General admission tickets are priced at $135 for early bird purchases and $160 for advance sales. Tickets at the gate will be available for $200. Teenagers aged 13-17 can attend for $75, while children aged 12 and under can enter for free. VIP packages, which offer premium seating and dedicated bar service, are available for $350. Tickets may be purchased online at www.dominicafestivals.com or at the Discover Dominica Authority office located on Great Marlborough Street in Roseau.
A few good nuggets. So glad they finally got Marie-Claire Giraud a Dominican of great talent,who has graced many stages in the US. I think we should keep it up. After 15 years though it’s not where it should be. We cannot for example be releasing a line up just one month before the event. Ok, for locals it’s less of a big deal to attend. This is also supposed to be a tourism product, however, so where is the consideration if one really wants to attract visitors to the event? Maybe its also a good idea to encourage those who wanna come for a long weekend to stay in the Portsmouth area. Not every visitor can afford to stay or care to stay at a luxury hotel. But why not let it be more encompassing for the local economy there? Especially considering that Portsmouth is well placed for that! Also, maybe we should brand it less of a jazz event but something else, since the jazz artists every year are very limited. Don’t get me wrong – I love the concept, but we have to elevate our game
Dominicans have to find different ways of protesting and fighting back. Just don’t stay there and capitulate. Boycott every event that is even minimally associated with the Roosevelt led junta.
Creole Festival should not receive one cent of support from any citizen or relative whose constitution rights were violated. Boycott the businesses that openly support the serial Liar and his mal-administration.
The struggle for good governance continue. We shall not relent. With God as our shield good must prevail over evil.
I remember when the entire line-up was jazz, the entry fee was $50, and people enjoyed a relaxed vibe, sitting around on the grass, picnicking in shorts and t shirts. There’s progress for you.