From July 24 to 26, it’s all about roots, dub, community and culture in Kortemark, Belgium. The 22nd edition of Irie Vibes Roots Festival kicks off with the free Kortemark Congé concert night on Thursday, then rolls straight into a heavy two-day celebration of reggae, dub, and soundsystem culture.
The warm-up starts early this year — Cease & Sekkle brings hometown vibes to the campsite Thursday afternoon, before acts like Giant Tree, Mystère, and Atomic Spliff get the evening moving. With DJ Desperado and FLPSTRon the 12V soundsystem, the energy will be real.
On Friday, it’s pure sound system tradition. The roots run deep with sets by Redemption Soundsystem, Mycelic Records, and the specially curated Jamaican History Night by East End Rock and Skylarking. Meanwhile, dub heads will gather at the Lion’s Den, where Satta Soundsystem links up with Dub-Up HiFi — then hands over full control for a 5-hour set by none other than Aba Shanti I. Legend in session!
Saturday levels up with a fire mix of live bands and international talent. Expect Echo Minott & The Hot Peppers (yes, 45 yearsin the game!), a long-awaited reunion with the iconic Abakush (back for the first time in Belgium since 1999), plus ska & rocksteady vibes from The Liquidators out of Lille. The Irie Vibes Roots Rally winners also join the main stage after their final on April 21 at 4AD Diksmuide.
Over at the Inner Lion Stage, Giraffe Soundsystem (celebrating 20 years!) hosts Rejoice and Wassie One, fresh off his crowning as Sound System Champion. The festival closes in the Lion’s Den with a heavyweight roots session by Power Dread Sound System from France.
More than just music, Irie Vibes offers a full cultural experience: a kids’ village, international food stalls, market vendors, and site-wide animation by Dubmaster T. The festival holds strong to values of ecology, respect, fairness, and local involvement.
Location: Koekelarestraat, Kortemark, Belgium
Tickets & info: www.irievibes.be
Dates:
• Kortemark Congé: Thursday, July 24 (18:00–01:00)
• Irie Vibes Roots Festival: Friday, July 25 (17:00–04:00) & Saturday, July 26 (12:00–04:00)
• Camping open: Thursday 13:00 – Sunday 11:00
