ROSEAU, DOMINICA – The 25th anniversary of the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) concluded on Sunday, October 26, 2025, in Dominica, drawing record crowds and marking a significant cultural and economic triumph for the Nature Island. The festival, a cornerstone of Caribbean cultural events, was graced by the presence of Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda, who lauded the “Dominican spirit” and the vibrant energy of the people during the three-day celebration.
A Milestone in Caribbean Culture
The World Creole Music Festival, first staged in 1997, has evolved into one of the Caribbean’s most anticipated annual events, celebrating the rich tapestry of Creole music and culture. This year’s milestone 25th edition, held under the theme “Global Echoes of the Nature Island: Celebrating 25 Years of Creole Music, Magic, and Memories,” took place at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium from October 24 to 26, 2025. The festival showcased a diverse array of musical genres, including zouk, bouyon, kompa, reggae, dancehall, soca, and afrobeat, reinforcing Dominica’s reputation as a leader in cultural tourism and a hub for Caribbean musical excellence.
Regional Leaders and Artists Converge
Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s attendance underscored the strong regional ties fostered by such cultural gatherings. He was observed interacting with patrons and fellow dignitaries, including Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit and international music stars such as Vybz Kartel and Spice. A widely shared photograph captured Browne, Skerrit, and Vybz Kartel together, symbolizing the fusion of politics, culture, and Caribbean unity that the festival embodies.
In a statement shared during his visit, Prime Minister Browne expressed his admiration for Dominica’s people. “It was a pleasure celebrating with our Dominican peeps, the silver anniversary of their World Music Festival. May God continue to guide the advancement of the Dominican people,” Browne told Antigua.news. Prime Minister Skerrit, in turn, welcomed Caribbean leaders and lauded the WCMF 2025 as a triumph of Dominican creativity and togetherness, echoing the island’s enduring spirit of pride and progress.
Unprecedented Success and Economic Impact
The 25th World Creole Music Festival proved to be an overwhelming success, significantly surpassing previous attendance records. The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) reported that over 42,000 patrons attended across the three nights, a substantial increase from the 30,217 recorded in 2024. Furthermore, visitor arrivals in the nine days leading up to the festival reached 10,540, representing a 48% rise compared to the same period last year – the highest pre-festival arrival figures ever recorded.
This surge in visitors generated a profound boost for Dominica’s economy. Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton, Minister of Tourism, stated, “Dominicans welcomed the world, and the world responded. The success of our 25th anniversary festival reflects not just great planning but the passion, creativity and resilience of our people. The multiplier effect from this single weekend is being felt across every corner of the economy”. Sectors such as small businesses, transportation, hospitality, and entertainment experienced a significant ripple effect, with hotels reporting near-full occupancy and increased demand for services.
A Stellar Lineup Electrifies Audiences
The festival’s lineup featured an electrifying mix of regional icons, local legends, and international stars. Highlights included Antiguan powerhouses Burning Flames, UK/Jamaica’s Steel Pulse, and Jamaica’s Romain Virgo on the opening night. Saturday night saw chart-topping performances from Jamaica’s Vybz Kartel and Spice, alongside Trinidad and Tobago’s KES The Band and Dominica’s own WCK. The grand finale on Sunday featured the dynamic energy of Trinidad and Tobago’s Bunji Garlin & Fay-Ann Lyons, Nigeria’s Tiwa Savage, and the iconic Guadeloupean group Kassav, among others. Local bands like Extasy also made a significant impression, showcasing Dominica’s vibrant musical talent.
A Beacon of Caribbean Unity
The 25th World Creole Music Festival has not only celebrated Dominica’s rich culture and musical heritage but also reinforced the spirit of Caribbean unity. Prime Minister Browne’s presence, alongside other regional leaders, amplified the festival’s message of shared heritage and collaboration. As the event concludes, it leaves a legacy of memorable performances, economic prosperity, and a strengthened sense of pride and connection across the Caribbean community. The DDA has already announced dates for the 26th edition, October 23-25, 2026, signaling continued growth and anticipation for this premier cultural showcase.