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by Gregs Julien
- July 9, 2025
- 0 Comments
The World Creole Music Festival was started with the intent to promote Dominica’s music culture as well as showcase it as a top-class tourism destinatation. With that, every October, Dominica transforms into a pulsating rhythm of drums, dance, and cultural pride—and in 2025, the World Creole Music Festival promises to be bigger, bolder, and more unforgettable than ever. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning local, this is more than just music—it’s a three-day celebration of identity, unity, and Caribbean soul.
What Is the World Creole Music Festival?
Now in its 25th year, the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) is one of the Caribbean’s most iconic musical events. Held the weekend before Dominica’s Independence celebrations peak, the festival showcases Creole music in all its forms — Zouk, Bouyon, Konpa, Cadence-lypso, Reggae, Soca, Afrobeat, and more. It’s a cultural bridge connecting Dominicans at home and abroad, regional fans, and international tourists.
Location: Windsor Park Sports Stadium, Roseau
Dates: October 24–26, 2025 (Friday to Sunday)
What to Expect at WCMF 2025
The lineup? Electric.
The atmosphere? Pure magic.
This year’s festival features a vibrant mix of local legends, regional icons, and international stars.
Official 2025 Artist Lineup
Night 1 – Friday, October 24
- Burning Flames (headliner)
- Gilles
- Halibut
- Midnight Groovers
- Nu Look
- Oswald
- Romain Virgo
- Steel Pulse
- Triple Kay International
Night 2 – Saturday, October 25
- Vybz Kartel (headliner)
- Asa Bantan
- Gordon Henderson
- DJ MJ
- Ebony Empress
- Faithii
- First Serenade
- Jixels
- Joe Dwet File
- Kenny G
- KES The Band
- Linford John
- Little Boy
- Ophelia
- Pudaz
- Quan
- Ridge
- Rohie
- Shanika
- Spice
- WCK
Night 3 – Sunday, October 26
- Bunji Garlin & Fay Ann Lyons (headliners)
- Reo
- Elisha Benoit
- Extasy Band
- Ezra D’ Fun Machine
- Kassav’
- Trilla G
- Michele Henderson
- Nice
- Shelly & Signal Band
- Tiwa Savage
- (…plus one more act TBA)
Beyond the Music – Island-Wide Creole Season Vibes
Creole Season runs throughout October and includes:
- Jounen Kwéyòl (Creole Day) – island-wide food, music, and traditional wear
- Creole in the Park® (Oct 20–23) – daily live shows, food booths, cultural exhibits
- Ti Matador, Miss Wob Dwiyet, and other pageants
- Village feasts, pop-up concerts, and market events
Wear your madras, grab a local flag, and soak in the culture.
Eat, Drink & Lime
While enjoying the festival, there’s also the opportunity to sample and enjoy the local eats- along with the national dish, Callaloo Soup.
Hence, no festival is complete without great food and nightlife:
Creole Cuisine Stalls
- Fig & saltfish
- Crab callaloo
- Goat water
- Smoked herring
- Tanni fritters
- Cassava bread
Rum & Cocktail Bars:
- Bush rum
- Ti punch
- Spiced rum cocktails
After-Party Spots
There’s always somewhere else to go after the main event or while winding down. Dominica never let’s you down, just ask around, browse around and find these hidden gems where the sewo (party) keeps going.
Where to Stay During WCMF
Book early—rooms fill up fast!
Downtown Roseau (close to venue):
- Fort Young Hotel
- La Flamboyant Hotel
- Sutton Place Hotel
Airbnbs & Guesthouses:
- Bath Estate
- Castle Comfort
- Canefield
Quieter Options (short drive in):
- Laudat
- Trafalgar
- Copthall
Tickets & Booking Info
- Early-bird: Sold out
- Tier 1: ~XCD 500 (limited availability)
- VIP, nightly, and weekend passes available online
- Purchase through the official Dominica Festivals website or designated local outlets
Final Thoughts
The World Creole Music Festival 2025 isn’t just a concert — it’s Dominica’s cultural heartbeat. From Zouk to Bouyon, rum to bakes, pageants to parades, this October is your chance to experience the soul of the Nature Island.
Come for the music.
Stay for the vibes.
Leave with memories that last a lifetime.