Dominica is set to pulse with vibrant energy as it hosts the 25th anniversary of its iconic World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) from October 24 to 26, 2025. This milestone event, held under the commemorative theme “Global Echoes of the Nature Island: Celebrating 25 Years of Creole Music, Magic, and Memories,” promises three unforgettable nights of diverse musical performances and cultural immersion at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Roseau. The festival, a cornerstone of Dominica’s Creole Heritage Month, continues to solidify the island’s reputation as a premier destination for Caribbean music and culture.
A Legacy of Rhythm and Culture
Established in 1997, the World Creole Music Festival was founded with the dual objectives of boosting Dominica’s arts and entertainment industries and enhancing its appeal as a unique tourism destination. Over its 25-year history, the WCMF has evolved into one of the most anticipated events on the Caribbean festival calendar, drawing significant regional and international media attention and artists alike. It serves as a vital platform for showcasing the rich tapestry of Creole music, encompassing genres such as Bouyon, Cadence-lypso, Zouk, Kompa, Reggae, Dancehall, Soca, and Afrobeat, originating from Dominica, the wider Caribbean, Europe, and Africa.
The festival has become a cultural bridge, fostering unity among Creole-speaking peoples and providing a stage for both established international stars and emerging local talent. Each year, the event highlights Dominica’s distinct musical identity and its broader connection to the global Creole diaspora, contributing significantly to the island’s cultural pride and international visibility.
The 2025 Edition: A Star-Studded Celebration
Under the stewardship of the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) and the Ministry of Tourism, the 2025 WCMF is poised to be larger and more spectacular than ever, marking its silver jubilee. The theme, “Global Echoes of the Nature Island,” encapsulates the festival’s journey of celebrating its roots while embracing a global musical dialogue. Organizers have curated a dynamic lineup featuring over 45 performances across the three nights, designed to appeal to a wide array of music enthusiasts.
Night one, themed ‘Fire & Foundation’ on Friday, October 24, will pay tribute to the trailblazers who have shaped Caribbean music. Headliners and featured artists include Burning Flames (Antigua), Steel Pulse (UK/Jamaica), Romain Virgo (Jamaica), and local acts like Midnight Groovers, Gilles Fontaine, and TK International.
Saturday, October 25, brings ‘Creole Carnival’ with a high-energy celebration of Creole rhythm. This night features Jamaican stars Vybz Kartel and Spice, alongside Trinidad and Tobago’s Kes The Band. The vibrant roster also includes Dominica’s Asa Bantan, WCK, The Bouyon Assembly, and Haiti/France’s Joé Dwét Filé, promising a pulsating showcase of Caribbean cross-cultural energy.
The ‘Grand Finale’ on Sunday, October 26, will close the festival with a world-class lineup. Headlining this spectacular night are Nigerian superstar Tiwa Savage and Trinidadian powerhouses Bunji Garlin & Fay-Ann Lyons. The evening will also feature Guadeloupe/Martinique’s legendary Kassav’, and a strong contingent of Dominican artists including Extasy Band, Michele Henderson, and Shelly & Signal Band.
Cultural Immersion and Economic Powerhouse
The World Creole Music Festival is more than just a concert series; it’s an integral part of Dominica’s Creole Month, a period dedicated to celebrating the island’s rich heritage through music, cuisine, fashion, and traditions. The festival’s success has consistently translated into significant economic benefits for Dominica, boosting tourism and invigorating local businesses.
Visitor arrivals for the 2025 festival saw a remarkable surge, with 10,540 visitors in the nine days leading up to the event, a 48% increase from the previous year, marking the highest pre-festival figures ever recorded. Over 42,000 patrons attended across the three nights, a substantial leap from 2024, energizing hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and local artisans. Marva Williams, CEO of the Discover Dominica Authority, highlighted the festival’s economic impact, projecting a nine-fold return on investment, emphasizing that the benefits circulate widely among the Dominican people, from taxi drivers to vendors and service providers.
Planning Your Festival Experience
Tickets for the 25th World Creole Music Festival are available for purchase online at www.dominicafestivals.com and through official ticket outlets. Season tickets are priced at EC$600, offering access to all three nights, with individual nightly tickets also available. VIP and premium packages are also on offer, providing enhanced experiences for attendees. Visitors are encouraged to book accommodations and travel arrangements in advance, as the festival draws a global audience eager to experience Dominica’s renowned hospitality and natural beauty alongside its captivating music scene.
The World Creole Music Festival 2025 stands as a testament to Dominica’s vibrant culture and its enduring commitment to celebrating the richness of Creole music and heritage on a global stage. It continues to unite communities, inspire artists, and drive economic growth, promising an electrifying experience for all attendees.