BY SIMONE J. SMITH
If you live in certain parts of North America, notably Toronto, Ontario, Canada, you are probably looking out the window, begging for the warm sun of summertime. I hear you, trust me; I am wishing for it as well, but for those who have the means, and are able to get out of the cold, I want you to imagine swaying to the soulful melodies under the Caribbean sky, with the iconic Pigeon Island National Park as your breathtaking backdrop.
Yes, I am speaking about an escape to paradise for a symphony of sounds! This spring, you have a chance to experience the magic of the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival & Arts Festival, renowned as the Caribbean’s premier celebration of jazz. You have an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of world-class musicians as they grace intimate venues and captivate open-air stages throughout the island.
The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival returns in the third year of its revitalized format from April 30th to May 11th, 2025. This year’s festival will feature an exciting lineup of global talent, including Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and pianist John Legend; 70s pop, soul, and funk icons Earth, Wind & Fire; and dancehall and reggae superstars Beenie Man and Bounty Killer.
The programming spans different genres of music across six nights and is set to attract thousands of visitors from around the world. The iconic and historic Pigeon Island National Park will provide the waterside backdrop for the open-air performances, with the Ramp at Rodney Bay hosting Pure Jazz.
“Our Jazz & Arts festival has been going strong for more than 30 years, thanks to the much sought after artists that we continue to collaborate with,” shares Minister of Tourism, Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire.
“Visitors come from around the world to enjoy the lineup, the warm hospitality of our people, and the stunning setting of Saint Lucia. 2025 sees us build on the wonderful art component that we reintroduced in 2023 as well as the hugely successful music programming with global and local artists from jazz and gospel to reggae, pop, and now country music.”
Now, for the moment you have been waiting for; the musical lineup with more big names in music still to be announced:
Wednesday, April 30th: Opening Night
The festival will kick off with the energetic sounds of Soca and Dennery Segment with an all-Saint Lucian cast, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. Adding to the excitement is Jamaican contemporary reggae artist Sizzla. Country music will be introduced to the lineup, featuring the talented Gretchen Wilson. Country music holds a special place in Saint Lucia, with lively line dancing often seen at events across the island. This genre will connect with locals and visitors, offering a unique blend of music that will resonate with all.
Tuesday, May 6th: Pure Jazz
Italian jazz and rock virtuoso Mateo Mancuso will take the stage, bringing his signature sound and incredible improvisational skill to the festival. Alongside him, the incomparable Etienne Charles, Trinidadian jazz trumpeter and island favorite, will deliver a performance that will ignite the crowd.
Wednesday, May 7th: Kingdom Nights
A hugely popular night in previous years, this year, gospel powerhouse Tasha Cobbs Leonard promises a stirring performance of hits like ‘Break Every Chain‘, while the acclaimed Maverick City Music brings their genre-defying sound to the stage.
Thursday, May 8th: Pure Jazz
Grammy-nominated vocalist Jazzmeia Horn brings her unique blend of tradition and contemporary brilliance to the stage with hits including ‘Sing Your Own Song’ and ‘Mysteries of Us’.
Friday, May 9th: Caribbean Fusion
Prepare for an electrifying experience as two legendary kings of reggae and dancehall share the stage: Grammy-award-winning Beenie Man and fellow artiste Bounty Killer. This dynamic duo will bring pure energy, nostalgic rhythms, and hits, including their joint collaboration ‘Legendary’ plus ‘Look into My Eyes’ from Bounty Killa and Beenie Man’s ‘Who Am I/Simma’.
Saturday, May 10th: World Beats
The stunning performances continue for World Beats featuring Afrobeat star Ruger (‘Bounce’) and Haiti’s Tabou Combo (‘New York City’). This night is a celebration of diverse cultures through music.
Sunday, May 11th: The Ultimate Celebration (The Legends)
The closing night is the ultimate celebration where music legends take the spotlight. 12-time Grammy winner singer songwriter John Legend (‘All of Me’, ‘Ordinary People‘) takes to the stage. Legend is joined in the lineup by iconic Grammy winners Earth, Wind, and Fire, who will perform their hits, including the infectious ‘Let’s Groove’ to the jubilant anthem ‘September’.
It is even easier to enjoy the jazz festival this year; getting to Saint Lucia from Canada couldn’t be easier with direct nonstop flights on Air Canada and WestJet. Signature Saint Lucia accommodations and events across the island suit all interests and budgets.
Ticketing and packages will be available from early February at www.saintluciajazzandartsfestival.com/.
Follow announcements from the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority across social media @travelsaintlucia.
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