SOS Fest 2026

Posted on July 21, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

SOS Fest 2026 is set to bring the energy of Toronto Carnival Weekend to the Markham Fairgrounds from July 31 through August 2, offering three days of Caribbean music, culture, and entertainment.

Recognized as one of North America’s premier Caribbean festivals, the event will feature four signature experiences: Colours – J’Ouvert Night, Carnival Kingdom, Revivor – The Chutney Concert, and Legends – The Throwback Concert.

The festival’s lineup includes Bunji Garlin, Fay-Ann Lyons, Voice, Nailah Blackman, Skinny Fabulous, Mical Teja, Collie Buddz, Alison Hinds, Destra, Rupee, Farmer Nappy, Ravi B, Raymond Ramnarine, Terry Gajraj, and many more.

In addition to live performances, attendees can enjoy Caribbean cuisine, cultural experiences, and a vibrant festival atmosphere throughout the weekend. Get tickets here.

Catch Machel Montano at Central Park This August

Posted on July 16, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Soca superstar Machel Montano is set to light up Central Park in New York with two nights of live performances on August 8th and 9th, both kicking off at 6 PM, as part of his “This Is The Encore” tour. The two-day event promises an electric atmosphere, with opening night on August 8th featuring a live performance by Full Blown.

Organizers are reporting strong demand for tickets, with Saturday’s show (August 8th) nearly sold out and Sunday’s date (August 9th) now the primary focus for fans hoping to attend. A limited number of tickets remain available for both dates. Fans looking to secure their spot can purchase tickets through the following links:

Day 1 (August 8th): www.eventim.us/machelmontano
Day 2 (August 9th): www.eventim.us/machelmontanoencore

Marge Blackman and Yung Bredda Release the Official Video for “Toast To Love”

Posted on July 1, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Marge Blackman and Yung Bredda have unveiled the official music video for their uplifting collaboration, “Toast To Love,” bringing the song’s celebratory message to life with vibrant visuals that perfectly capture its infectious energy.

Released on Yung Bredda‘s YouTube channel, the video finds both artists dressed in bright, colorful attire as they enjoy an evening in a stylish lounge setting. Surrounded by a lively crowd, the pair raise their glasses in celebration, inviting everyone to join the festivities. The feel-good atmosphere and high-spirited performances mirror the positive message of the song, creating a visual experience that complements the track from start to finish.

“Toast To Love” was released on June 19, 2026. It was written by Marge Blackman, produced by Jamoo13thsound, and mixed and mastered by Mozi Beatz.

The official music video is now available to stream on Yung Bredda‘s YouTube channel.

Boston JerkFest Returns with Feme Tropikal Celebration

Posted on June 28, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Boston JerkFest is bringing three days of culture, food, and vibes to the city this summer with its Feme Tropikal event, running from Friday, July 10 through Sunday, July 12, at Ohiri Soccer Field within the Harvard Athletic Complex.

Headlining the festivities are three powerhouse women of Caribbean music: reggae legend Sister Nancy, soca queen Alison Hinds, and rising star Nailah Blackman. Additionally, attendees can look forward to an impressive supporting lineup including DJs Nomadik, Slick Vick, Diamond & Warlock, and Safiya, alongside Tempo Steel Band, Jahriffe & Jah-N-I Roots Movement, Amaziya the Great, spoken word performances, and more.

The event is being supported by Meet Boston, Mass Cultural Council, The Williams Agency, and WORD Boston. Get tickets here.

Rise Montréal Returns to the Old Port this July

Posted on June 21, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Rise Montréal, presented in collaboration with Tanguay as part of the A Taste of the Caribbean series, is set to take over the Vieux-Port de Montréal from July 9–12, 2026.

Headlining the four-day festival are Caribbean artists Duane Stephenson and Alison Hinds, alongside Chris Combette and DJ Camilo. The lineup also features a diverse roster of supporting acts including Energy Squad, DJ Don Shutah, Solidground All-Stars feat. Mikey Dangerous, Face-T, Aldo Guizmo, Kabey Konate, Wesli Band, Black Parents, Kelly Krow, DJ Abuelo, Algarete, MC Ivo, DJ Vyctor Maas, and DJ Cze.

The event will be held at Quai de l’Horloge, with doors opening at 6:00 PM each evening. Tickets are available at RiseMontreal.ca and TOTC.ca.

Caribbean Culture Takes Over Washington D.C. at “Taste di Islands” Block Party

Posted on June 7, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

The nation’s capital is set to experience a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture as Taste di Islands — a Caribbean music and food block party — comes to Washington, D.C. on Sunday, June 28 at The Bullpen, located at 1201 Half Street SE.

Part of the Join the MVEMNT Fest Wknd, the event will be hosted by two prominent Caribbean artists, Lyrikal and Charly Black, and promises an authentic island experience through live music and traditional food. Music will be provided by Ricky Platinum, alongside DJs Geovoni and Precious Layne.

Nova Mas International Brings “The Secret Garden” to Bermuda for Swizzie Sunrise

Posted on May 29, 2026 by Maria Jackson 27 Magazine

Nova Mas International is taking over The Arboretum on Saturday, June 13th, 2026, for Swizzie Sunrise: The Secret Garden — an immersive, garden-themed experience running from 5AM to 12PM, with premium drinks included. The event marks another bold entry in Bermuda’s growing fête season calendar.

Headlining the morning is a live performance by soca powerhouse Voice, joined by Aalai and Friends. The musical lineup features DJs Jus Jay, DJ Puffy, Brush1 x Rocksteadyy, DJ Fury, Mista Genius, and Riggo Suave, with hosting duties handled by Aaron Fingal.

Tickets are available at bdatix.bm. The event is supported by the Government of Bermuda’s Ministry of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, along with sponsors including Hennessy, Gosling’s, Patrón, Digicel, BGA, KFC, and Impressions.