United for Relief
Gates Open at 10am
A weekend of reggae and community to support Jamaica’s recovery after Hurricane Melissa.
About the Cause
The total devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Melissa across Jamaica is a sight no one can easily forget. Homes reduced to rubble, entire communities cut off, and thousands of lives upended. For many on the island, the long road to recovery has just begun.
Here in Sarasota, a small group of local business people watched the news reports—the shocking scenes of loss and human suffering—and realized they couldn’t stand by. They knew they had to act. They had to be United for Relief.
Food For The Poor Jamaica
We’re proud to partner with Food For The Poor, one of the largest and most effective relief organizations serving the Caribbean and Latin America.
FFTP is already on the ground in Jamaica, delivering emergency supplies and long-term recovery support to families impacted by Hurricane Melissa.
All proceeds after expenses support communities throughout Jamaica in collaboration with Food For The Poor for direct relief.
The Lineup — Legends & Rising Stars Unite
Main Stage Performers
- Burning Spear – The legendary voice of roots reggae
- Fortunate Youth 🎤- Closing night headliner
- Kabaka Pyramid – Grammy-winning powerhouse of conscious music
- Third World – 50 years strong with timeless anthems of unity
- Luciano – The Messenjah returns with soul and spirituality
- Yellowman – The original dancehall king bringing the vibes
- Eric Swanson Band – Uplifting the crowd with feel-good island soul
Supporting Artists
- Greg Roy & The Pressure Band
- Jah Movement
- Floridaze
- Soul Purpose
- Stoney Banks
- Flip Flop Republic
- Reggae Lou & The Kind Budz
…and more incredible artists to be revealed as the festival approaches.
Band Schedule by Day & Stage
Set times and performers are subject to change.
Main Stage Second Stage
Saturday – Dec 13
| 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Flip Flop Republic Second Stage |
| 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM | Eric Swanson Band Main Stage |
| 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Stoney Banks Second Stage |
| 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM | Kabaka Pyramid Main Stage |
| 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Reggae Lou & The Kind Budz Second Stage |
| 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Third World Main Stage |
| 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Greg Roy & The Pressure Band Second Stage |
| 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Burning Spear Main Stage |
Sunday – Dec 14
| 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Soul Purpose Second Stage |
| 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM | Yellowman Main Stage |
| 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | NostalJah Second Stage |
| 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM | Luciano Main Stage |
| 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Jah Movement Second Stage |
| 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Fortunate Youth Main Stage |
Schedule and lineup subject to change without notice.
Two Days. One Rhythm. One Purpose.
Come for the music. Stay for the movement.
Dates
Two days of reggae, community, and hope.
Sat. 11:30am-10pm / Sun. 11:30am-7pm
Location
Centrally located venue with plenty of space and on-site parking.
Admission
If you’re able, please give more—every extra dollar puts food, shelter, and medical care into the hands of families recovering from Hurricane Melissa.
A Weekend of Reggae, A Lifetime of Hope
Join us, and the incredible Sarasota community that has rallied around this cause, for a powerful two-day event: United for Relief: A Reggae Benefit Concert on December 13th and 14th at the Sarasota Fairgrounds.
We’re bringing the vibrant, hopeful spirit of reggae music—Jamaica’s own rhythm of resilience —to our city to deliver urgent care to the victims of Hurricane Melissa.
This isn’t just a concert; it’s a movement born of compassion. It’s our chance to answer the desperate cries for help and provide the most essential, life-saving aid.
Reggae & Community
Do Real Good
Food & Marketplace
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Invaluable Champions
David Baram Esquire has stood as a pillar of unwavering support and expertise. Leveraging his extensive knowledge and robust network within the legal and entertainment industries, David navigated complex challenges, secured crucial agreements, and dedicated countless hours to ensuring this event’s foundation was solid and compliant. His guidance, meticulous attention to detail, and tireless effort have cleared the path for us to focus entirely on the mission of relief, making his contribution far more than professional—it is a profound act of tireless generosity and conviction.
Heather Cameron’s unparalleled connections and influential presence in the industry were instrumental in elevating “United for Relief” to the platform it commands today. Her ability to mobilize key contacts and persuade industry leaders to donate essential resources—from talent coordination to logistical support—provided the critical momentum needed to maximize our fundraising potential. Heather’s relentless advocacy for the relief program and her sheer determination have demonstrated a level of commitment that inspires everyone involved, reflecting a true spirit of humanitarian leadership.
Become a Sponsor
By sponsoring United for Relief, your business will be part of a powerful movement that turns music and unity into meaningful impact.
Enjoy brand recognition, community engagement, and the satisfaction of knowing your support helps families recover and rebuild.
While You’re at the Festival
Marketplace
Food
Bars
Additional information and policies
- Food or drinks brought from outside
- Alcoholic beverages or personal flasks
- Blankets, towels, or similar coverings
- Portable coolers or insulated bags
- Any glass bottles or containers
- Controlled substances, narcotics, or related accessories
- Items considered hazardous, unsuitable, or misused may be seized at the venue
- Unauthorized sales or vending activities
- Blades, firearms, or any weapons
- Professional cameras, camcorders, or recording equipment (unless pre-approved)
- Remote-controlled aircraft, drones, or similar flying devices
- Laser pointers or high-intensity lights
- Pets or animals (service animals for disabilities are allowed with prior notification)
- Open flames, torches, or flammable devices
- Pyrotechnics, fireworks, or explosive materials
- Skateboards, electric scooters, or personal motorized transport
- Bikes within the event area
- Temporary shelters like tents or shade structures
- Pull-along wagons, carts, or carriers
- Musical instruments, amplifiers, air horns, or loud devices
- Unauthorized promotions or solicitations
- Chairs
- Poster Tubes
- Regular-sized or unframed backpacks
- Empty, refillable plastic or aluminum bottles, & Camelbak’s
- Binoculars
- Bags & Strollers are allowed but will be searched thoroughly
- Cigarettes and E-Cigarettes
- Deodorant, Sunscreen & Non-Aerosol bug spray
- Hula Hoops
- Personal Umbrellas only, anything larger than an umbrella that accommodates 2 people will not be allowed
- Blankets or tarps (small, foldable ones for sitting on the ground; no stakes or poles to avoid tripping hazards)
- Hats, sunglasses, and ponchos (for sun/rain protection; must be personal-sized and nonobstructive)
- Sealed snacks or food (e.g., energy bars, fruit, or small bags of chips; limit to personal portions to prevent waste or sharing issues)