With roots dating back to 1978, Reggae Geel is one of Europe’s oldest and most respected reggae festivals. Held in the small Belgian town of Geel, this two-day event has grown from a local gathering to a massive international celebration of reggae music and Rastafarian culture. What makes Reggae Geel particularly remarkable is its strong embrace of African reggae voices, creating a powerful bridge between the Motherland and the Caribbean.
African acts such as Lucky Dube (South Africa), Majek Fashek (Nigeria), and Tiken Jah Fakoly (Mali) have historically graced its stages, offering politically charged lyrics and Pan-African ideals that deeply resonate with festival-goers. Alongside Jamaican legends and European reggae bands, these African artists remind the audience that the struggle for justice, identity, and peace is a global one.
The festival grounds are vibrant and immersive, with themed stages like the Bounce Dancehall, Dub Forest, and Yard Stage, each offering a unique subculture of the reggae universe. Beyond music, Reggae Geel is known for its cultural enrichment—featuring vegan African dishes, craft stalls, and workshops on drumming, herbal medicine, and African history.
Reggae Geel isn’t just about music—it’s about movement. It honors the deep African roots of reggae while opening up conversations about diaspora identity, post-colonial resistance, and the healing power of rhythm.
