The Sunshine Reggae Festival (Previously, “Rum & Reggae Festival”) was held in Apopka, Florida on November 4, 2023.
As I approached the event, the area had ample signage, directing to the gate entrance and parking — something that is not always available, and that I really appreciated (Because who wants to be driving around just to locate the entrance of an event?)
It was my first time at this event, as it was for all events in the Orlando area this year. The venue selected, The Apopka Amphitheatre, was an excellent choice for the event. The space offered beautiful greenery, overlooking a lake and offered patrons the option to bring their lawn chairs/ blankets and just relax on the lawn while enjoying the show and food with their loved ones.
Attendees could also sit in the chairs of the amphitheater to enjoy the performances. The event was attended by individuals, couples and family alike. It was definitely a family-friendly atmosphere, complemented well by the new name, Sunshine Reggae Festival.
Some of the Festival Features included a VIP section/Rum & Reggae Zone and The Food/Vendor booths. The VIP section offered a separate seating area to the side of the stage that provided direct access to the stage. It provided Rum Tastings at the Rum Shop, the option to play Domino games and even Hookahs were available. There were approximately 10 vendors at the Reggae Festival and included Food, Drinks and Arts & Craft (with Clothing) options, which provided offerings for everyone. There was even a coconut and fresh coconut water vendor!
I spoke to persons earlier in the evening who were looking forward to each performer but also came out for the vibes and meeting up with people.
On the stage, were energy filled performances by Nadine Sutherland, King Yellowman and Anthony B, the Original Fireman all backed by the rich sounds of Code Red Band! The audience, including myself truly enjoyed each and every performer.
Anthony B
It was my first time seeing any of the three perform in person and I was ecstatic to have that experience. I can tell that Reggae music and the continual upliftment of it really means a lot to these artistes. OfCourse, the sound from the live instruments is something that touches my soul differently and Code Red certainly delivered in that arena!
I will say, there was a bit of confusion for me, as various versions of the event flyer were distributed and had at least two other artistes that were not present at the event. I hope this is something the organizers look to make sure does not happen in the future or there is communication before the event that clarifies this.
All-in-all, I see continued growth for this event, as it is something the Orlando Caribbean community looks forward to each year.
By Tisha ‘Ms. Petite’ Myrie