HUMBOLDT COUNTY, CA., 2/3/26 — Reggae on the River, one of the longest-running reggae festivals in the United States, has announced its first group of artists set to perform Aug. 14–16 near Piercy.
The festival also serves as a primary fundraiser for the Mateel Community Center, a nonprofit arts and culture organization based in Southern Humboldt County.
The artists span generations of reggae, from roots and dancehall pioneers to contemporary performers blending traditional reggae with hip-hop, electronic and global influences.
The lineup includes Grammy-winning contemporary reggae artist Kabaka Pyramid, alongside roots and dancehall veterans Don Carlos, Dezarie and Prezident Brown, reflecting both reggae’s foundational legacy and its modern global reach.
Big Mountain, Iba Mahr, Subatomic Sound System, Army, Ka$e and SIMRIT featuring Purity Attack round out the initial artist announcement.
Founded in 1984 by the Mateel Community Center, Reggae on the River is widely recognized as a cornerstone of reggae culture in the United States and a major platform for artists performing outside Jamaica. Over four decades, the festival has helped introduce North American audiences to roots, dub, dancehall and sound system traditions.
Organizers said the 2026 lineup reflects the festival’s mission to honor reggae pioneers while elevating contemporary and emerging voices, presenting reggae as a living, evolving global culture.
Additional artist announcements, cultural programs and festival details are expected in the coming months. Information about tickets and camping is available at https://www.reggaeontheriver.com.