Organizers launch countdown to World Music Festival’s 25th edition

This past weekend the Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) officially announced the launch of the 25th edition of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), revealing what organizers say is an exciting lineup of artists.

Set to take place from October 24 to 26, 2025, at Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Roseau, the  special commemorative  theme for the event will be: “Global Echoes of the Nature Island: Celebrating 25 Years of Creole Music, Magic, and Memories.”

Marking a milestone anniversary, this edition highlights a fusion of musical talent and cultural pride, showcasing performances by regional icons, local legends, and international stars over three nights. DDA’s media release stated that the emphasis will be on Creole identity and Caribbean musical excellence.

“The World Creole Music Festival is a cultural flagship that has elevated Dominica’s visibility and amplified the voices of Creole people everywhere,” stated Marva Williams, CEO of the Discover Dominica Authority and Director of Tourism. “As we commemorate 25 years, we are proud to present a line-up that reflects the evolution of our sound, culture and Caribbean identity.”

Night One: Fire & Foundation — Friday, October 24
A tribute to the pioneers and influential figures who have shaped Caribbean music:

– Burning Flames (Antigua)
– Midnight Groovers (Dominica)
– Halibut (Dominica)
– Gilles Fontaine (Dominica)
– Nu Look (Haiti/USA)
– Romain Virgo (Jamaica)
– Oswald (St. Maarten)
– TK International (Dominica)
– Steel Pulse (UK/Jamaica)

Night Two: Creole Carnival — Saturday, October 25
An energetic display of Creole expression and cross-Caribbean vibrancy:

– Asa Bantan (Dominica)
– WCK (Dominica)
– The Bouyon Assembly (Dominica: Rohie, Ridge, Pudaz, Kenny G, Quan, DJ MJ, Little Boy, Faithi “Bouyon Barbie,” and Ebony Empress; Guadeloupe: Jixels and Shanika)
– First Serenade Band (Dominica)
– Gordon Henderson (Dominica)
– Ophelia Marie (Dominica)
– Lynford John (Dominica)
– Joé Dwét Filé (Haiti/France)
– Kes The Band (Trinidad & Tobago)
– Spice (Jamaica)
– Vybez Kartel (Jamaica)

Night Three: The Grand Finale — Sunday, October 26
A spectacular closing featuring regional icons and international chart-toppers:

– Tiwa Savage (Nigeria)
– Bunji Garlin & Fay-Ann Lyons (Trinidad & Tobago)
– Extasy Band (Dominica)
– Ezra “Da Fun Machine” (St. Lucia)
– Kassav (Guadeloupe & Martinique)
– Michele Henderson (Dominica)
– Elisha Benoit (Dominica)
– Trilla G (Dominica)
– Nice (Dominica)
– Reo (Dominica)
– Shelly & Signal Band (Dominica)

The show’s Organizers stated:

“The World Creole Music Festival, first held in 1997, has grown into one of the Caribbean’s leading cultural events. It celebrates Creole music in all its forms—zouk, bouyon, kompa, reggae, dancehall, soca, afrobeat, and more—while promoting regional unity and artistic innovation.

Fans, visitors and culture enthusiasts are encouraged to plan an extended stay—whether for a few days or a full two weeks—to soak in the festival atmosphere, enjoy fringe events before and after the main stage performances, explore Dominica’s breathtaking attractions and experience its warm island hospitality.

For more information and ticket purchases, visit www.dominicafestivals.com and follow Dominica Festivals on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for ongoing updates and exclusive festival content.”

Source: Dominica News Online