Reggae Night
Hollywood Bowl

The Legacy of Reggae Night at the Hollywood Bowl

Reggae Night first launched in the early 2000s as a collaboration between the Hollywood Bowl and KCRW, the influential public radio station based in Santa Monica. What began as a one-off summer event quickly grew into an annual tradition that draws reggae fans from across Southern California and beyond. Over 24 editions, the series has showcased some of the genre's greatest names — from Damian Marley and Jimmy Cliff to Steel Pulse, Toots and the Maytals, and many more. Each year, the lineup reflects both the deep roots and evolving branches of reggae music, blending veteran artists with rising talents and ensuring the evening appeals to lifelong fans and newcomers alike.

The 2026 edition marks the 24th installment of this beloved series, and the pairing of Ziggy Marley with Burning Spear represents a meeting of two distinct but complementary pillars of the genre. Ziggy brings the Marley family's signature blend of reggae, funk, and rock, while Burning Spear delivers the deep, meditative power of roots reggae at its most spiritually resonant. Opening the evening is Zuri Marley, Ziggy's daughter and an emerging artist in her own right, who delivers danceable DJ sets infused with messages of love, unity, and social consciousness.

What Makes the Hollywood Bowl Perfect for Reggae

Outdoor amphitheaters and reggae music share a natural kinship. The genre's bass-driven grooves, hypnotic rhythms, and communal spirit are amplified by the open-air environment of the Hollywood Bowl. The venue's hillside design allows sound to travel naturally across the audience, and the warm summer air carries the music in a way that enclosed arenas simply cannot replicate. Add in the Bowl's spectacular views of the Hollywood Hills at sunset, the glow of the iconic bandshell under stage lighting, and the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, and you have an evening that transcends a typical concert. Reggae Night attendees often describe the experience as feeling like a giant outdoor party — one where thousands of strangers become friends over shared rhythms and good vibes.

Planning Your Reggae Night Experience

1. Explore ticket options — Browse our marketplace for available seats across all sections, from front-row garden boxes to upper terrace spots with sweeping views.
2. Pick your section — Garden boxes offer an intimate experience close to the stage, while the terrace sections provide a broader view and a more casual atmosphere perfect for dancing.
3. Plan your arrival — Gates open at 5:30 PM, giving you over an hour to settle in before the 7:00 PM start. Arriving early is essential for enjoying the full picnicking experience.
4. Pack a picnic — Bring your own food and drinks, or order from the Hollywood Bowl's on-site dining options. Wine, beer, and non-glass beverages are welcome in most sections.
5. Arrange transportation — Use the Park and Ride shuttle from locations around LA, take a rideshare to the designated drop-off area, or arrive via the Metro Red Line to Hollywood and Highland.
6. Complete your purchase — Select your tickets, check out through our secure platform with buyer protection, and receive your ticket delivery confirmation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reggae Night XXIV at the Hollywood Bowl

Who is performing at Reggae Night XXIV at the Hollywood Bowl?

Reggae Night XXIV features nine-time Grammy Award winner Ziggy Marley and roots reggae icon Burning Spear as the headlining acts. The evening opens with a DJ set from Zuri Marley, Ziggy's daughter, who brings her own blend of danceable reggae-influenced music. The event is presented in association with 89.9 KCRW as part of the KCRW Festival series at the Hollywood Bowl.

When is Reggae Night 2026 at the Hollywood Bowl?

Reggae Night XXIV is scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2026 at the Hollywood Bowl. Gates open at 5:30 PM and the music begins at 7:00 PM. The early gate time allows attendees to take advantage of the Hollywood Bowl's beloved picnicking tradition before the performances start.

How many Reggae Nights have there been at the Hollywood Bowl?

The 2026 event marks the 24th edition of Reggae Night at the Hollywood Bowl, making it one of the longest-running themed concert series in the venue's history. Since its inception in the early 2000s, Reggae Night has become a signature summer event in Los Angeles, consistently drawing sold-out crowds and featuring some of the biggest names in reggae music from around the world.

How many Grammy Awards has Ziggy Marley won?

Ziggy Marley has won nine Grammy Awards over the course of his career, along with an Emmy Award. He has been recognized across multiple categories and was the first reggae artist to receive the George and Ira Gershwin Award for Lifetime Musical Achievement. His nearly four-decade career has produced a body of work that spans reggae, rock, funk, and world music, cementing his place as one of the genre's most versatile and celebrated artists.

What is Burning Spear best known for?

Burning Spear, born Winston Rodney, is best known as one of the founding voices of roots reggae music. His 1975 album Marcus Garvey is widely regarded as one of the greatest reggae albums ever recorded, featuring songs like Slavery Days and Tradition that champion African liberation and Rastafarian philosophy. He has won two Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album and received twelve nominations throughout his career spanning over 25 albums.

Can I bring my own food and drinks to Reggae Night at the Hollywood Bowl?

Absolutely. The Hollywood Bowl is famously one of the few major concert venues that encourages guests to bring their own food and beverages, including wine and beer, into most seating areas. Glass containers are not permitted, but you can bring wine in plastic bottles or transfer it to non-glass containers. Many Reggae Night attendees make an evening of it by arriving early with picnic baskets, blankets, and elaborate spreads to enjoy before and during the show.

What is the best way to get to the Hollywood Bowl?

The most popular and convenient option is the Park and Ride shuttle service, which operates from several locations across Los Angeles on show nights. Rideshare services have designated drop-off and pick-up areas near the venue entrance. You can also drive and park on-site, though lot spaces fill quickly for popular events like Reggae Night. Public transit riders can take the Metro Red Line to the Hollywood and Highland station, from which the venue is accessible by foot or connecting shuttle.

Is Reggae Night at the Hollywood Bowl suitable for families?

Reggae Night is generally a family-friendly event with a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Children of all ages are welcome at the Hollywood Bowl, and many families attend Reggae Night as a group outing. The early start time of 7:00 PM and the relaxed picnicking environment make it an approachable event for younger attendees. Keep in mind that all attendees, regardless of age, need a ticket for entry.

What should I bring to a summer show at the Hollywood Bowl?

Essential items include layers of clothing since temperatures can drop once the sun sets, a small blanket or cushion for added comfort in your seat, sunscreen for the early evening sun, and any food and drinks you plan to enjoy. A small bag or backpack makes it easier to carry your belongings through the entry gates. Binoculars can enhance the experience if you are seated in the upper terrace sections farther from the stage.

Are the tickets on your site official Hollywood Bowl tickets?

Our tickets come from verified third-party sellers through our secure resale marketplace. They are authentic tickets that grant entry to the event, but they are not sold directly through the Hollywood Bowl box office. Our platform verifies all sellers and guarantees the authenticity of every listing. Prices are set by individual sellers and may be above or below face value depending on demand. All transactions include buyer protection and our pricing is fully transparent with no hidden fees added at checkout.

What happens if Reggae Night at the Hollywood Bowl is cancelled?

In the event of an official cancellation with no rescheduled date, purchases made through our marketplace are eligible for a refund in accordance with our buyer protection policy. If the event is postponed to a new date, your tickets will typically remain valid for the rescheduled performance. Specific terms are outlined at the time of purchase, and our customer support team is available to assist with any questions or concerns about your order.

How does the Hollywood Bowl's sound quality compare to indoor venues?

The Hollywood Bowl features a state-of-the-art sound reinforcement system designed specifically for its unique outdoor amphitheater layout. The natural hillside bowl shape provides excellent acoustics, and the venue has invested heavily in audio technology to ensure clear, balanced sound reaches every section. For reggae music in particular, the outdoor setting adds a dimension that indoor venues cannot replicate — the bass resonates through the open air, and the absence of walls creates a spacious, immersive listening experience that complements the genre's rhythmic depth.