A strong Jamaican contingent has been announced for this year’s staging of Reggae Geel in Belgium on August 4 and 5.

Reggae Geel is one of the oldest reggae festivals in Europe, and this year will mark its 39th edition.

More than 70 acts are down to take the stage over the two days, with a high concentration of local acts set to perform.

Among the artistes advertised for the festival are Jah Cure, Steel Pulse, Duane Stephenson, Christopher Martin, Chronixx, Raging Fyah, Jesse Royal, Runkus, Chevaughn, Notis Heavyweight Rockaz, Royal Blu, Blvk H3ro and Hempress Sativa. In addition, vintage reggae acts The Silvertones and The Heptones are also on the line-up.

The organisers of the festival note that Reggae Geel is for music lovers of all ages and now has five stages, with something for everyone.

Among the features of Reggae Geel is the shaded 18 Inch Corner with its romantically lit trees which is especially popular with the younger crowd. There will also be entertainment for children. In the Reggae Market you can find clothing, unique jewellery, records, musical instruments, and international art.

The festival also aims to protect the environment. It has introduced a waste policy in recent years where waste is collected and sorted for recycling everywhere and festival visitors are given Reggae Geel gadgets in exchange for empty plastic cups. Thriftstore Zuiderkempen collects plastic bottles in the festival grounds. The use of public transport is also encouraged — Reggae Geel organises a free shuttle service with buses from Geel train station to the festival grounds and back.