Welcome to the 8th Annual Marley Fest 2025! Set to take place on Saturday, January 25th, at the iconic Gaslamp Long Beach, this year’s festival promises an electrifying night of reggae, live performances, dining, and togetherness. Fans of Johnny Osbourne, Johnny Clarke, and other reggae legends, mark your calendars—this is one night you won’t want to miss!

A Night of Legendary Music

The festival lineup is packed with iconic names and rising stars:

• Johnny Osbourne: Known as the “Dancehall Godfather,” Johnny Osbourne is celebrated for his hits like “Truths and Rights” and “Ice Cream Love.”
• Johnny Clarke: With a soulful style and deep connection to reggae’s roots, Clarke will captivate fans with classics like “Move Out of Babylon.”
• Nick Sefakis: Representing a new wave of reggae artists, Sefakis blends modern rhythms with classic vibes.
• Dukes of Roots: A collective of talented musicians delivering a fresh take on reggae, infused with traditional elements.
• Fully Fullwood Band: One of reggae’s most revered backing bands, known for their collaborations with legends like Peter Tosh.

Hosted by DJ Gregory, the festival guarantees a seamless musical journey, blending roots reggae with contemporary sounds.

8th Annual Marley Fest 2025: Why Marley Fest Is Special

The 8th Annual Marley Fest is not just another music festival; it’s a profound homage to Bob Marley, whose music and messages continue to resonate globally. Here’s what makes this event special:

• Celebration of Legacy: Bob Marley was more than a musician; he was a cultural icon whose work transcended music to become a symbol of peace, love, and social justice. Marley Fest keeps his spirit alive, offering a space where attendees can connect with his ideals and the reggae genre he helped define.
• Unity and Community: Marley’s music was inherently about unity. The festival embodies this by bringing together people from various backgrounds, creating a community atmosphere where fans can share in the love for reggae. It’s an event where one can feel part of something larger, echoing Marley’s belief in one love and one heart.
• Cultural Education: Beyond the music, Marley Fest serves as an educational platform where attendees learn about Rastafarian culture, the history of reggae, and its impact on global music. This cultural exchange fosters understanding and appreciation for the genre’s roots.
• Live Performances: The lineup features artists who not only pay tribute to Marley but also carry forward the torch of reggae. Each performance is a testament to Marley’s influence, showcasing how his music has evolved while still holding true to its core messages of freedom, love, and resistance.
• Healing Through Music: Known for its therapeutic qualities, reggae music at Marley Fest offers a form of spiritual and emotional healing. The rhythm, the lyrics, and the collective experience of the festival can provide solace and inspiration, reminding attendees of Marley’s call to “get up, stand up.”

Marley Fest 2025 stands as a beacon for all that reggae represents, ensuring that Bob Marley’s legacy of music as a tool for inspiration and unity continues to thrive.

• Background:
  • Johnny Osbourne, often hailed as a pioneer, has been an integral part of reggae since the late 1960s. His career took off with the seminal sound system, King Tubby’s, where he became known for his clear, high-pitched voice which was perfect for the dancehall era.
• Musical Style:
  • Osbourne’s style combines traditional roots reggae with the emerging dancehall rhythms, making him a bridge between eras. His music often carries themes of social commentary alongside love songs, reflecting the diverse influences of his time.
• Live Performances:
  • Known for his dynamic stage presence, Johnny Osbourne’s shows are a blend of high energy and soulful expression. Attendees can anticipate hearing iconic tracks like “Jah Promise,” “Truths and Rights,” and “Buddy Bye,” songs that have become anthems in reggae culture.
• Cultural Impact:
  • Osbourne’s influence extends beyond music; he’s been a cultural ambassador for reggae, spreading its message of peace, love, and unity globally.

8th Annual Marley Fest 2025: Fascinating Details About the Lineup

Johnny Clarke

• Roots Reggae Master:
  • Johnny Clarke is synonymous with the roots reggae of the 1970s. His voice, full of warmth and depth, captured the essence of reggae’s spiritual and political themes.
• Signature Sound:
  • Clarke’s music is characterized by its deep bass lines, organ melodies, and his distinctive, emotive delivery. His songs often deal with Rastafarianism, social justice, and love, echoing the sentiments of the time.
• Anticipated Set:
  • Fans can look forward to classics like “None Shall Escape the Judgement,” which became a rallying cry for many, and “Move Out of Babylon,” a track that showcases his storytelling prowess. His performance will undoubtedly evoke nostalgia, taking listeners back to reggae’s golden era.

Nick Sefakis

• Modern Reggae Sensation:
  • Nick Sefakis represents the new generation of reggae artists who have grown up with the music and are now adding their own modern twists to keep it relevant for today’s audience.
• Music and Message:
  • His music blends contemporary reggae with elements of pop, rock, and even electronic music, making it accessible and appealing to a broader, younger demographic. Sefakis often focuses on themes of personal growth, love, and environmental consciousness.
• Performance Style:
  • Expect an engaging set where Sefakis not only performs his own hits but also pays homage to reggae legends, possibly including some of Marley’s classics, in his unique style. His live acts are known for their high energy, engaging the crowd with both danceable beats and reflective moments.

Dukes of Roots

• Vibrant Stage Presence:
  • This group brings together seasoned musicians whose collective experience in reggae is palpable. The Dukes of Roots are known for their tight harmonies and the ability to weave intricate musical layers into their performances.
• Unique Sound:
  • Their music often includes a fusion of roots reggae with jazz influences, showcasing their versatility and musicianship. They might introduce tracks from their latest works or classics that have defined their career.
• Engagement with the Audience:
  • Their performances are not just about the music; they create an experience where the audience feels part of the show, often leading sing-alongs or involving fans in their storytelling through song.

Fully Fullwood Band

• Heart and Soul of Reggae:
  • Led by bassist and producer Fully Fullwood, this band encapsulates the essence of reggae music with its rich, layered sound. Fullwood, who has worked with legends like Bob Marley himself, brings authenticity and depth to every performance.
• Set Expectations:
  • The band is likely to perform a mix of their original work and timeless reggae hits, possibly including reimagined versions of Marley’s songs. Their set could feature tracks from Fullwood’s solo albums or collaborations, showcasing his pivotal role in reggae’s history.
• Live Show Experience:
  • Known for their groove, the band’s live shows are about feeling the music as much as hearing it. Expect a set that not only gets you moving but also connects you spiritually with reggae’s roots.

The lineup for the 8th Annual Marley Fest 2025 is a celebration of reggae’s past, present, and future, featuring artists who have lived the music and those who are pushing it forward. Each act brings something special to the table, ensuring that the festival is not just a concert but a cultural pilgrimage for reggae enthusiasts.

8th Annual Marley Fest 2025: Location and Venue Details

The 8th Annual Marley Fest is set to take place at Gaslamp Long Beach, an iconic venue located at:

6251 East Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach, CA 90803.

Why Gaslamp Long Beach?

• Atmosphere:
  • Gaslamp Long Beach is renowned for its unique blend of intimacy and grandeur. The venue’s design, with its industrial chic aesthetic mixed with a relaxed, lounge-like atmosphere, fosters a sense of closeness between the performers and the audience. This setting is particularly fitting for a reggae festival, where the connection between music and the crowd is paramount.
  • Acoustics: The venue prides itself on its state-of-the-art sound system, ensuring that every note of the reggae rhythms is heard with clarity and depth. This enhances the live music experience, allowing fans to fully immerse themselves in the Marley legacy.
• Accessibility:
  • Location: Situated in the vibrant heart of Long Beach, Gaslamp Long Beach is easily accessible, making it convenient for both local attendees and those traveling from further afield.
    • By Car: For those driving, the venue’s location on the Pacific Coast Highway offers straightforward access, though traffic considerations during peak festival times should be noted.
    • Public Transport: Long Beach Transit provides bus services that connect various parts of the city to the venue, and the Long Beach Transit Passport system can be a cost-effective way to navigate around. Additionally, ride-share services like Uber or Lyft are readily available, offering drop-offs and pick-ups directly at the venue.

Parking Details

• Before 6 PM: Attendees can take advantage of free parking if they arrive early. This is perfect for those planning to spend the evening at the venue, perhaps having dinner or mingling before the main event starts.
• After 6 PM: The parking fee increases to $20. For evening concert-goers or those arriving during the main festival hours, this is the cost to keep in mind.
  • Tips:
    • Arriving early not only secures you a free parking spot but can also mean less time spent waiting in traffic or finding a parking space as the event fills up.
    • Consider carpooling or using public transportation to mitigate parking costs and contribute to a more sustainable event experience.

Gaslamp Long Beach, with its unique atmosphere, prime location, and thoughtful logistics like parking, stands as an exemplary choice for hosting the Marley Fest, ensuring that the celebration of Bob Marley’s music is both accessible and memorable.

8th Annual Marley Fest 2025: A Culinary Journey at Gaslamp Long Beach

The 8th Annual Marley Fest, celebrating the legacy of Bob Marley, isn’t just a musical feast; it’s a gastronomic adventure set against the backdrop of reggae rhythms at Gaslamp Long Beach. Here’s what attendees can look forward to in terms of food and beverage options:

Table Reservations:

• Essential for Dining: Given the popularity of Marley Fest and the unique dining experience it offers, securing a table reservation is highly recommended. The ambiance at Gaslamp Long Beach, with its industrial chic decor mixed with island vibes, makes for an ideal setting to enjoy food with live music.
  • Contact Information: To reserve, call (562) 596-4718 or email info@gaslamplongbeach.com (mailto:info@gaslamplongbeach.com). Reservations are crucial to ensure you have a place to sit, relax, and enjoy your meal without the worry of finding seating amidst the festival crowd.

Menu Highlights:

• Caribbean-Inspired Dishes:
  • Jerk Chicken: A staple, featuring chicken marinated in a mixture of allspice, Scotch bonnet peppers, and other spices, then grilled to perfection. This dish encapsulates the spirit of Marley Fest, bringing the warmth and flavors of Jamaica directly to your plate.
  • Oxtail Stew: Slow-cooked in a rich gravy, this dish provides a deep, comforting flavor profile, often accompanied by rice and peas, a traditional side that soothes the soul.
  • Rasta Pasta: A colorful and flavorful pasta dish with bell peppers, tomatoes, and jerk seasoning, sometimes including shrimp or chicken for those looking for a hearty meal.
• Classic American Cuisine with a Twist:
  • BBQ Ribs: Gaslamp Long Beach might offer BBQ ribs with a Jamaican twist, perhaps with a jerk BBQ sauce or a pineapple glaze, providing a fusion of flavors that resonate with the festival’s theme.
  • Burgers and Sliders: Not just any burgers, but ones that could feature patties seasoned with island spices or topped with mango salsa, accompanied by sweet potato fries or plantain chips.
• Small Plates and Appetizers:
  • Ideal for sharing while enjoying the music, options might include:
    • Plantain chips with a spicy avocado dip
    • Coconut shrimp or conch fritters
    • Mini jerk chicken skewers
• Beverage Selections:
  • Craft Cocktails: Expect cocktails like the ‘Reggae Road’ – a mix of rum, coconut water, lime, and a splash of Blue Curacao for color, or a ‘One Love’ punch, reminiscent of tropical island flavors.
  • Beer: Local craft beers, perhaps with a special Marley Fest brew, capturing the essence of the festival in every sip.
  • Wine: A selection of wines to complement the diverse flavors of the food, from crisp whites that pair well with spicy dishes to full-bodied reds for the BBQ offerings.
• Desserts: No meal is complete without dessert, especially when celebrating love and unity:
  • Rum Cake: Moist and flavorful, soaked in a Caribbean rum syrup.
  • Coconut Bread: A sweet bread that might be served with a scoop of ice cream.
  • Festival Fritters: Sweet, doughy treats fried to golden perfection, sometimes served with a drizzle of honey or condensed milk.

The food and beverage offerings at the 8th Annual Marley Fest are designed not just to fill you up but to immerse you in the culture of reggae through taste. Each dish and drink has been curated to enhance the live music experience, providing a feast for both the ears and the palate. Reservations are key to ensuring you can fully enjoy this culinary journey, set to the soundtrack of Bob Marley’s timeless music.

A8th Annual Marley Fest 2025: Accommodation and Lodging Information

For those planning to attend the 8th Annual Marley Fest in Long Beach, securing accommodation is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable festival experience. Here are some of the top lodging options near the Gaslamp Long Beach venue:

Hyatt Regency Long Beach

• Luxury and Convenience:
  • The Hyatt Regency is known for its upscale accommodations, providing guests with luxury amenities and exceptional service.
  • Location: Situated right on the waterfront, this hotel offers breathtaking views of the marina and downtown Long Beach, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate scenic beauty.
  • Amenities:
    • Spacious rooms with modern decor and panoramic city or harbor views.
    • An outdoor heated pool with a sundeck, perfect for relaxing after a day of music and festivity.
    • On-site dining options include Tides Restaurant & Lounge, where you can indulge in California cuisine with a view.
    • A fitness center for those looking to keep up with their exercise routine.
    • Business Center: For those who might need to work or catch up on emails during their stay.

Hotel Maya – a DoubleTree by Hilton

• Resort-Style Experience:
  • Hotel Maya offers a unique combination of tropical resort ambiance with the convenience of an urban location.
  • Proximity to Beaches: Just a few steps from the marina, it’s an excellent choice for festival-goers who also want to enjoy the beach.
  • Amenities:
    • Rooms feature a blend of contemporary and Mayan-inspired decor, with some offering water views.
    • Fuego Restaurant: Known for its Latin-inspired cuisine and stunning views from the rooftop, perfect for a pre or post-concert meal.
    • Private Cabanas: For those looking for a luxurious day by the pool or even a private event space.
    • Shuttle Service: Complimentary shuttle service to local attractions, which could include transport to the festival venue or nearby dining options.

The Westin Long Beach

• Blend of Comfort and Style:
  • The Westin provides a tranquil retreat in the bustling downtown area, known for its signature Heavenly® Beds which ensure a restful night after the festivities.
  • Location:
    • Centrally located, making it convenient for exploring both the festival and the city’s other attractions.
  • Amenities:
    • The WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio: Equipped with modern fitness gear to help you stay active.
    • In-room amenities: Including Westin’s Heavenly Bath with dual showerheads, bathrobes, and deluxe toiletries.
    • Westin Fresh by The Juicery: Offering healthy dining options, which can be a refreshing choice after a night of indulgence.
    • Event Spaces: For those potentially combining the festival visit with business or social events.

Booking Early:

• Availability: Given that the Marley Fest draws a significant crowd, and Long Beach itself is a popular destination, hotels tend to book up quickly, especially during festival weekends.
• Packages: Look out for special festival packages that might include perks like complimentary breakfast, festival shuttles, or tickets bundled with your stay.
• Advance Reservations: Booking early not only secures your room but often results in better rates or room selection. Utilize booking platforms or contact the hotels directly for the best deals.

When planning your stay for the Marley Fest, consider these hotels for their blend of comfort, amenities, and proximity to the festival. Remember, the earlier you book, the better your chances of enjoying your stay without the last-minute rush or potential unavailability. This preparation ensures your focus can be on soaking in the reggae vibes, good food, and the company of fellow Marley enthusiasts.

Safety Measures and Regulations

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees, the festival organizers have implemented the following:

• No Refunds or Exchanges: All ticket sales are final.
• Health Protocols: Adhere to any health and safety guidelines in place at the time of the event.
• Age Restrictions: This event is open to all ages, making it family-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General Event Information

1. What time do doors open?
   Doors open at 5 PM, with the show starting shortly after.
2. Is the event suitable for all ages?
   Yes, the festival is open to all ages.

Tickets and Reservations

3. How much do tickets cost?
   General admission is $41.35, which includes a $6.35 fee.
4. Do I need to make dinner reservations?
   Yes, if you plan to dine, call (562) 596-4718 for table reservations.

Venue and Accessibility

5. Where is the event located?
   The festival is at Gaslamp Long Beach, 6251 East Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach, CA 90803.
6. Is parking available?
   Free parking is available before 6 PM; it costs $20 afterward.

Food and Beverage

7. What dining options are available?
   A variety of dishes and drinks, including Caribbean-inspired meals and craft cocktails.
8. Can I bring outside food or drinks?
   No, outside food or beverages are not allowed.

Refunds and Exchanges

9. Are tickets refundable?
   No, tickets are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

Rock On: A Memorable Experience

The 8th Annual Marley Fest 2025 isn’t just a concert—it’s a celebration of reggae culture, community, and the legacy of Bob Marley. Whether you’re a lifelong reggae fan or a newcomer to the genre, this event promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. With a star-studded lineup, delicious food, and the vibrant atmosphere of Long Beach, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

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Source :

Gaslamp Long Beach Official Website

Ticket Booking for Marley Fest

Hyatt Regency Long Beach

Explore Long Beach Tourism