Reggae music first originated in Jamaica but it has grown to become a worldwide cultural and musical expression that touches everyone no matter what age, culture, or ethnicity. The lyrics deal with varying subjects such as faith, love, relationships, poverty, injustice, and other broad social issues in our present world today.

The inaugural event of 2008 was the result of a full year of planning and preparation by founder and President Benjamin Williams. Drawing upon his knowledge of the music along with his business experience the festival held at world renowned Lebreton Flats Festival Park in downtown Ottawa was a resounding success. Slated as a one day event, the festival quickly grew due to the overwhelming response from the local and regional communities further solidifying his resolve that the area needed a festival of this nature.

As a company that recognizes good business potential Heineken quickly jumped on board to be the sponsor of an added day. The added day became the Heineken Dance Party designed to showcase local and regional artists along with Disc Jockeys all from the reggae industry. Heinekens experience was so rewarding that they have decided to join again this year as one of our major sponsors.

Headliners

The 2008 line-up included internationally acclaimed UK artist Maxi Priest, Canada’s Spanish Reggaeton sensation El Neggro, Bermudian Collie Buddz and Toronto’s pride Snow.

Regional/Local Artists

Some of the regional artists include; Mackendy Kompa from the Island of Haiti currently residing in Montreal, two time Canadian Reggae Music Awards winner Ras Lee whose strong musical roots are direct relate to the origins of reggae music, two time Juno winner Korexion, Trilla U and Tanya P just to name a few. As you can see from our performance line-up we were able to showcase the many different forms of Caribbean inspired music with the emphasis on the world recognized Reggae.

Festival Offerings

The VIP Lounge offered patrons front stage seating accommodations, a private bar with service and featured Caribbean food. It also provided front stage accommodations for patrons with disabilities at no extra charge and free admission to the accompanying guest.

The Kids Zone catered to the entire family, supervised by professional early childhood educators, where families could go with their children to play. There was a variety of activities that included a moon bounce, face paintings, the CHEO bear, and more.

There was an assortment of foods from local vendors including Caribbean, Canadian, Japanese cuisine just to name a few. Along with the artisans and merchants there was the traditional sugar cane and coconut water vendors just to set the mood.

Successes                     

Since the inaugural year, the festival has received much needed support from the community and the various levels of government through the Ontario Arts Council, the City of Ottawa and Heritage Canada. Ottawa Reggae Festival has become a member of Ottawa Festival’s thus being able to use their resources and marketing outreach
 
In an effort to give back to the community the Ottawa Reggae Festival hosts community events around the nation’s capital throughout the year. These events include the 46th Anniversary Celebration of Jamaican Independence with the Ottawa Rapidz, a Canada Day Block Party downtown and Marley Night event celebrating Black History Month.

Coca Cola partnered with the festival’s green team, making it possible to recycle over 240 cubic feet of cardboard, plastic and aluminum.

In conclusion, the legacy of this festival could not have began without the support of all our first year sponsors most of whom have decided to continue the journey with us. I would also like to emphasize that without the countless hours contributed by friends, family and volunteers it would have been impossible.

This is only the beginning of greater things to come!