From June 21-23 Reggae Rise Up turned the Baltimore Peninsula into a Ska Sanctuary. Showcasing nationally touring local acts such as Ballyhoo, The Harbor Boys, Dale and the ZDubs, and Higher Education, the festival highlighted the vibrant reggae scene present in the DMV. Even in the heat, opening acts delivered incredible energy, sparking excitement in the growing crowd.

It's to be noted that Reggae Rise Up Maryland went to great lengths to prioritize the well-being of attendees.  Amid global concerns on the safety of music festivals, many music lovers have refrained from partaking in summer festivals . To combat the record-high temperatures and minimal cloud cover, the festival provided plenty of shaded tents. In addition to a variety of food and non-alcoholic drink vendors, security staff generously distributed water bottles to help prevent dehydration among fans who didn't want to lose their spot on the rail or wait in long lines.

Wristbands allowed festival-goers the flexibility to leave and re-enter once a day, giving them an opportunity to escape the heat thus enhancing their RRU experience. After a weekend filled with sun and smiles, the three-day event concluded with an electrifying finale, leaving concert-goers energized.

Dispatch, with their unique blend of indie-rock and reggae, indulged fans in well-known classics as well as current hits. Their performance appealed to all with their eclectic yet accessible sound. Original members Chadwick Stokes and Brad CAs the sun sank over the Patapsco, the band members jumped off risers and head-banged amidst the smoky stage. Kids cheered on shoulders high in the air, and one was even seen joyfully catapulted as vibrant lasers scanned the crowd.

Finally, The Roots burst onto the stage for the festival finale. With unmatched energy, the band dove into their mix of hip-hop, jazz, and soul which delighted the eager audience. MC Black Thought commanded the stage, energetically hitting every corner while the equally captivating guitarist and vocalist "Captain" Kirk Douglas energetically mirrored.  Backed by a tight rhythm section, punchy horns, and layered with keys and turntable beats, The Roots effortlessly mixed unconventional sounds. Highlights included key tar and drum solos by Jeremy Ellis and the iconic Questlove, who brought the crowd to an infinite roar. The Roots gave a performance like none other, solidifying their worldwide "legendary" status.

If you missed Reggae Rise Up Maryland 2024, you can catch their Florida, Utah, and Las Vegas editions!  It's not too late to get tickets for Reggae Rise Up Vegas taking place on October 4-6, 2024.