With an illustrious lineup of artists representing the vibrant spectrum of Caribbean and African musical genres, the festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience to attendees. Headlining the event are acclaimed performers such as Capleton, Busy Signal, Shy FX, and Iration Steppas. Joining them are talents like Cameroonian-American singer Libianca and the innovative dub sound system crew Channel One, enriching the festival’s offerings with depth and diversity.

In addition to these headliners, the festival further boasts a diverse array of performers, including the likes of Anthony B, Black Sherif, Ding Dong, Lojay, Queen Omega, WSTRN, Rage MC, Dubwise Jamaica, Ayanna Heaven, Kalia Goddess, and many more. This year’s festival showcases a full lineup of exceptional talent from various corners of the world, with esteemed acts like Jamaica’s Beenie Man, Shenseea, and Busy Signal also gracing the stage. Attendees can anticipate a dynamic display of musical talent, honouring the rich and vibrant heritage of Caribbean and African music.

City Splash Festival stands as a testament to the profound impact of Caribbean and African culture in the UK and beyond, showcasing the abundant legacy of genres like Roots, Dub, and Dancehall while embracing the evolution of Jungle and Garage music.

Featuring seven unique stages offering “diverse sounds and vibes,” attendees can immerse themselves in a medley of musical experiences. Additionally, with over 45 Black-owned food traders tantalising taste buds (delivered in partnership with Black Eats LDN), authentic rum stalls, and engaging panel talks, the festival promises an immersive cultural experience.

Located in the heart of Brixton, Brockwell Park serves as the perfect backdrop for this celebration of Afro-Caribbean heritage, underscoring the area’s rich history and cultural significance. More than just a music event, City Splash Festival is a vital cultural melting pot that celebrates, amplifies, and uplifts Black music, food, dance, and style.

As anticipation builds for this year’s festivities, City Splash Festival promises to be a highlight of the summer calendar, offering an opportunity to celebrate and embrace the diversity and richness of Caribbean and African culture in the UK and beyond. Tickets are available for purchase for the bank holiday celebration here.

Notting Hill Carnival: Windrush-themed bus to run to mark 75th anniversary https://t.co/VZxSUR5ahZ

— BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) August 26, 2023

This year’s event will feature a three mile long parade that will feature music, dance and steel bands. The chief executive of the carnival, Matthew Phillip has spoken of his confidence that this year’s celebration will be another amazing occasion, while London’s mayor Sadiq Kahn said, “Carnival is the embodiment of our city’s highest ideals, of how London’s diversity is not a weakness to be tolerated grudgingly, but a strength to be celebrated proudly. As a mayor of all Londoners, I will always do whatever I can to ensure this celebration of culture, identity and freedom continues to thrive.”

Notting Hill Carnival CEO Matthew Phillip ,who is entering his sixth year in the position, says ‘the eyes of the world are on us’. Will you be going this year?#NottingHillCarnival pic.twitter.com/3D0PssyxRw — London Live (@LondonLive) August 25, 2023

On Saturday in Emslie Horniman’s Park, the UK’s biggest steel pan competition and the UK national panorama Steel Band competition took place where performers played 10 minute compositions completely by memory. The carnival truly gets underway on Sunday however, with the opening ceremony in the morning, followed by the Children’s Parade, Adult’s Dutty/Fun Mas paint mayhem and then Sound Systems to close out the day.

On Monday, the day begins with the Adult’s Day Parade and will also feature Sound Systems, food stalls and live stages. This year’s live stages will feature performances at Soca City from 12pm-7pm and Powis Square Stage from 12pm-7pm. Often leaving acts until the last minute to ramp up excitement, this year’s confirmed performers include Shaggy who shot to fame in the 1990’s pop music scene.

.@MayorofLondon looks ahead to the world-renowned #NottingHillCarnival this weekend in today’s @EveningStandard https://t.co/F9pngTwwnr

— Mayor’s Press Office (@LDN_pressoffice) August 25, 2023

Began in 1966 by Rhuane Laslett , Notting Hill Carnival was conceived as a result of rising racial relations and attacks throughout the UK. Intended as a diverse celebration, Notting Hill Carnival’s main aim was to promote cultural unity.

The carnival is mostly free entry with certain events requiring a ticket and is located in the London borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

On making the album, Shaggy explained, “Since I was a child, I can remember seeing tourists flock to Jamaica during Christmastime for some sun, fun, rum, and great parties! Our island is all about family, friends, food, great beaches, warm, welcoming people, and a strong culture, which is the perfect recipe for a joyous Christmas, so we decided to embody all of that into one album.” – NME

Shaggy added in speaking about his Christmas extravaganza, “We enlisted some of Jamaica’s leading, iconic artists to participate, and with guests like Ne-Yo and Joss Stone, who frequent Jamaica during the holiday season, we hope to transport listeners and share how we celebrate Christmas in the Islands!”- NME

Shaggy (real name Orville Richard Burrell) was nicknamed after the scooby-doo character and grew up  in Jamaica and was born on 22nd October in 1968. After taking up singing lessons, Shaggy was discovered while singing on the streets with his friends.

His first mega hit was in 1993 with ‘O Carolina‘ a dancehall version of a ska song by the Folkes Brothers. Signed to Virgin records, the theme tune of the Levi’s commercial ‘Bombastic’ saw him shoot to fame in 1995. He then signed to Dreamworks to release his album, ‘Hot shot‘ which featured chart topping tunes, ‘It Was’nt Me’ and ‘Angel.’ In April 2020, Shaggy celebrated the 20th anniversary of his popular album, by releasing an updated version of his album, which he named ‘Hot Shot 2020.’ 

There is no doubt Shaggy will be bringing us some Jamaican warmth over the festive period with his Caribbean themed album. When reminiscing on his childhood memories of Christmas he said, “Since I was a child, I can remember seeing tourists flock to Jamaica during Christmas time for some sun, fun, rum, and great parties!” – Metro  It is certain that the Reggae legend will be lifting many spirits over Christmas with this fun album, bringing ‘Christmas In The Islands.’

Track List

1. ‘No Icy Christmas’ feat. Sanchez
2. ‘We Got Us’ feat. Shenseea and OMI
3. ‘Take You to the Cool’ feat. Richie Stephens & Conkarah
4. ‘Christmas In the Islands’ feat Rayvon
5. ‘Holiday in Jamaica’ feat. Ne-Yo & Ding Dong
6. ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas’
7. ‘Open Presents’ feat. Romain Virgo
8. ‘Raggamuffin Christmas’ feat. Junior Reid and Bounty Killer
9. ‘Christmas Time’ feat. Jamila Falak
10. ’12 Days of Christmas’ feat. Beenie Man and Craigy T
11. ‘Warm & Easy
12. ‘Sunny Celebration’ feat. Joss Stone
13. ‘Catch Myself Some Rays’feat. CARYS
14. ‘Love When It’s Christmas’
15. ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas’