Ska Fever: Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival lineup announced

Get ready for the ultimate summer ska and reggae celebration with a brilliant line up of top artists at the inaugural Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival.

The announcement comes as a spotlight has been shone on our Brummie ska heritage in the latest TV series from Peaky Blinders creator Stephen Knight, called This Town. 

The gripping drama series is set against the backdrop of the Two Tone Ska music scene in the 80s. But you don’t have to go back in time to enjoy ska and reggae beats.

Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival 2024 will pulsate with infectious rhythms featuring an impressive roster of iconic artists from May 31 to June 2, 2024, at Thornborough Farm, nestled on the outskirts of Kings Norton and Wythall - camping options and day tickets are both available

What is the lineup for the inaugural Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival 2024 at Thornborough Farm?

Set against the scenic backdrop of Thornborough Farm, the festival will unfold across three days in the great outdoors. Attendees will be treated to a myriad of live music and DJ performances across three stages, showcasing the rich tapestry of ska and reggae. 

From the classic sounds of Stranger Cole and Symarip to the energetic vibes of The Equators and Dakka Skanks, the festival promises an immersive journey through the heart and soul of ska and reggae. 

The lineup is a harmonious blend of local talent and international legends. The Pioneers, celebrated for hits like ‘Long Shot’ and ‘Let Your Yeah Be Yeah,’ will take centre stage alongside Midlands Ska legend Rhoda Dakar (The Bodysnatchers). Basil Gabbidon (Steel Pulse), Kioko, Lobster, and The Reggulites will represent the thriving Midlands ska and reggae scene, adding a local flavor to the global celebration. Prepare for a musical spectacle featuring the legendary: 

• The Pioneers, 
• Stranger Cole, 
• Symarip, 
• Rhoda Dakar (The Bodysnatchers), 
• The Equators, 
• Basil Gabbidon (Steel Pulse), 
• Kioko, 
• Aka The Syndicate, 
• Lobster, 
• Natural Right, 
• Xodus, 
• The Piragons, 
• The Reggulites, 
• Dakka Skanks, 
• The Lloyd McGrath Collective, 
• Carisoul Vibes, 
• Island Collective, 
• Luibh Laoch and 
• The AfroBians. 

What else is happening at the inaugural Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival?

This impressive lineup promises to make the inaugural Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival an unforgettable experience.

Beyond the live music, festival-goers can immerse themselves in a world of culinary delights with a tempting array of street food. Explore market traders and vintage stalls, adding an extra layer of vibrancy to the festival atmosphere. Choose between camping facilities for a complete festival experience or opt for easy access for non-campers.

‘The scene is alive and kicking in 2024’

Ken Moore, Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival (Thornborough Events): “We are delighted to be hosting this new festival on our beautiful green field site at Thornborough Farm. We look forward to welcoming revellers and performers and hope that this will become an annual celebration!”

Mazzy Snape, Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival (Bread Birmingham / The Night Owl), added: “We’re delighted to be playing host to original ska and reggae artists from Jamaica such as Stranger Cole and Symarip, Two-Tone legend Rhoda Dakar and tons of fresh and current ska and reggae acts such as Kioko, Lobster, The AfroBians and many more. The scene is still alive and kicking in 2024 and we want it to go from strength to strength!”

How to get tickets to the inaugural Birmingham International Ska & Reggae Festival

Tickets are now available to buy for Ska Fever at Thornborough Farm near Kings Norton and Wythall. You can buy day tickets, camping tickets, kids tickets and carers go free. Some day tickets have already sold out while some early bird passes for large and small live in vehicles are still available. The tickets are available from Skiddle here: Ska Fever Festival tickets