15 years of consistency in building the mark, unique atmosphere, professional production & promotion, extensive and diverse program are the main features of Ostróda Reggae Festival, the leading Polish event promoting the musical vibration out of Jamaica.
In 2015 the festival celebrated its 15th anniversary, for the third time taking place at the “Red Military base”, abandoned military complex in the centre of Ostróda town in the north of Poland. The round anniversary enjoyed serious media coverage not only in Poland, but also abroad. First time the festival hosted the “uncrowned king of European reggae”, Gentleman, with his (and Jamaican Raging Fyah) shows broadcasted on the Polish National TV. First edition of “World Reggae Contest”, supported by main global portal Reggaeville.com and historical Jamaican Harry J Studios, ended up with more than 100 bands from all around the world applying to the contest and 5 performing at the festival main stage in the final show, live video streamed on internet. The winners, UK group Chainska Brassika in January 2016 completed the main prize – a recording session in Jamaica.
Protoje (Jamaica), Capleton (Jamaica), Black Roots (UK/Jamaica), Richie Campbell (Portugal) with their 2015 performances added to the extensive list of top world’s reggae artists at the festival over the years. Ostróda has been also a place of a long string of leading Polish reggae bands, as well as international producers, singers and sound systems bringing the vibes to Green Stage, main Polish DJs place. The promoters put high attention to educational activities with the Reggae University, a meeting place with authorities of reggae music and movie screenings. Dancehall workshops and African drumming classes enjoyed interest from fans, so happened to the creative children zone in the festival area. Ostróda Reggae Festival invariably has a reputation of culturally creative event – promotes young artists & all new trends, taking care of explanation of the reggae culture background and its positive attitude.
With the multi-aged audience of thousands, enriched with a large and diverse group of newcomers from abroad and excellent reviews in the media worldwide, the festival once again confirmed its position at the forefront of the global events of this type. Its production level is considered also above the standards of many renowned European festivals.
In 2014 the festival was the place for the official Polish celebrations of the Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of independence and honored by the presence of Jamaican diplomatic corps.
The promoters of the festival were honored with “Merit for Polish Culture” awards by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage in 2014.
City of Ostróda, known as the “Pearl of Masuria”, with Masuria being a district of Poland called “the land of 1000 lakes”, is surrounded by beautiful lakes. It is considered great for water sports and tourism. The local hotel infrastructure is very developed. Ostróda Reggae Festival with its relaxing character and international recognition is one of the most crucial cultural attractions in summer season.
Currently, the preparations are underway for the next 16th edition of the Ostróda Reggae Festival, planned for 11th-14th Aug 2016.
Artists announced for 2016:
http://www.ostrodareggae.com/wykonawcy/
Links:
http://www.ostrodareggae.com
https://www.facebook.com/Ostrodareggaefestival
