As anticipation builds for the high-energy return of Vacae Weekend this Easter holiday, two of dancehall’s rising stars — Armanii and Malie Donn — are gearing up to deliver standout performances across the multi-event party series set to unfold from April 3–6.

With thousands of partygoers expected to descend on Jamaica’s north coast for the annual celebration of music, lifestyle and premium entertainment, both artistes say they are ready to match the electrifying atmosphere that has become synonymous with the brand.

Armanii is particularly eager to bring the vibes to Pic-Nic, one of the standout day-time experiences on the Vacae Weekend calendar.

Known for his smooth delivery and catalogue of female-friendly tracks, the
Snapchat singer says the event’s signature energy aligns perfectly with the kind of music he creates.

“Pic-Nic a one of those events weh the vibe different,” Armanii told the Jamaica Observer’s Splash. “The ladies dem turn up, so you know seh mi haffi come out and perform fi dem properly.”

“Once the ladies love the music, everything else follow,” he continued. “So mi always make sure seh mi cater to that energy with songs weh dem can feel good to, songs weh dem can dance to, songs weh dem can just enjoy themselves with.”

The artiste has been riding a strong wave of international momentum since the release of his debut album Impact in December, securing features on major platforms and earning recognition from Billboard as his reach continues to expand beyond Jamaica.

Despite the growing global attention, Armanii says performing at home remains special.

“Anytime mi get the chance fi perform at home, especially at a big event like this, it mean a lot,” he said. “Jamaica always a the base, so mi always ready fi deliver.”

Event organiser Franz Kentish believes Armanii is the perfect fit for the Pic-Nic audience and overall concept.

“Armanii has been doing amazing things for dancehall both in Jamaica and overseas in the US, and his sound connects strongly with the crowd we expect at Pic-Nic,” Kentish said. “With the kind of energy and presence he brings, we know he’s going to add something special to the experience.”

Meanwhile, fellow dancehall artiste Malie Donn is also preparing to make his mark during the weekend when he steps onto the stage at Sandz Caribbean Music Festival — another marquee event within the Vacae Weekend line-up.

With Sandz widely known for its high-energy performances and massive turnout, Malie Donn says he understands the magnitude of the moment.

“Sandz is a big stage,” he said. “A lot of people come out for that event, so mi know seh mi haffi deliver. The fans dem can expect energy, vibes… everything tun up.”

For the artiste, however, the performance is just another step in a larger journey defined by steady work and continued growth.

“Mi just a build, you see me. Mi nah stop work,” he said.

With both artistes promising high-energy sets and organisers preparing immersive experiences across multiple events, Vacae Weekend 2026 is shaping up to deliver another memorable Easter celebration for dancehall fans and partygoers alike.

— Shereita Grizzle

Malie Donn.