IRIE Music Festival returns to Nathan Phillips Square

After a taking a one-year break due to the Pan Am Games, the TD Irie Music Festival is returning to Nathan Phillips Square.

Showcasing some of today’s top reggae music acts, the IRIE Music Festival offers several on-site attractions and cultural activities designed to showcase everything from Reggae to Latin, Soul to African; dance, spoken word, visual arts, delicious tropical food, drinks and more.

“This year, the TD IRIE Music Festival will offer a greater variety of events to better serve the interests of our diverse audience,” said artistic director, Phil Vassell. “It is our hope that fans of the festival can now choose from a broader menu of fun-filled experiences.”

Headliners for the IRIE Fest are reggae stars, Bushman and Steele. Bushman is one of the most beloved cultural singers to perform at the event and was critically acclaimed for his tribute to Peter Tosh at the festival five years ago.

Reggae singer/songwriter and local favourite, Steele, has performed internationally and has been featured on shows such as Reggae Sumfest and Rebel Salute in Jamaica as well as New York’s popular festival, Irie Jamboree.

Other artistes scheduled to perform include Canada’s Char David with the Hard Core Band and Wurl Trema Band featuring Comfort.

In addition to the live music, IRIE Fest will present the 14th annual dance Immersion Summer Showcase. The special one-hour showcase will feature a variety of African Canadian dance ensembles, including Ubuntu Drum and Dance Theatre, Lua Shayenne & Company, Ebnfloh Dance Company and The Black Stars.

“Caribbean culture offers so many things to experience and enjoy, IRIE Fest captures them all!” said Scott Mullin, Vice President Community Relations, TD Bank Group.

Festival organizers are also pleased to announce the debut of IRIE Craft Beer, produced in association with Junction Craft Brewing, a company committed to brewing the highest quality hand-crafted beer. IRIE Beer will be available at the festival.

The TD IRIE Music Festival will be held on Saturday, July 30 and Sunday, July 31 from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. at Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen St. West. Admission is free.

For more information, visit iriemusicfestival.com or call 905-799-1630.

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