The Caribbean’s longest-running independent music festival Moonsplash returned to Anguilla this March with a vibrant and eclectic line-up.
The 36th annual festival took place from 5 to 8 March at the Dune Preserve beach bar on Rendezvous Bay, featuring a unique blend of music, culture and island vibes.
Founded in 1991 by Anguillian reggae legend Bankie Banx and his friend Sheriff Bob Saidenberg, Moonsplash is renowned for its diverse programme and intimate atmosphere.
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Over the years, it has welcomed global stars such as Jimmy Buffett, Toots and The Maytals, Buju Banton, Bunny Wailer, Culture, Marcia Griffiths, Freddie McGregor and Tarrus Riley.
A statement from the Anguilla Tourist Board said: “For decades, it has been more than a music festival. It is rhythm, resilience and reunion.
“It is where stories are told under the stars and where generations gather to celebrate culture, community and pure island spirit.”
This year’s festival was just as electrifying, featuring an exciting mix of international and local talent set against a stunning backdrop.
It also carried special meaning as organisers and attendees remembered musician and vocalist Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, co-founder of Third World, who died earlier this year.
Speaking prior to the event, Bankie Banx said the it was going to be celebration of Coore and a tribute to the energy he put into Moonsplash over the years.
“Cat Coore’s influence has helped us develop the festival,” Banx said, adding: “We have to honour him.”
The event began on 5 March with an opening party at Savi Beach Club on Meads Bay featuring live music, a meet and greet with the artists, an open bar and canapés.
A Reggae Night was held on 6 March featuring Kumar Fyah, Mighty Mystic, Mishka and Olaide Banks.
This followed the next day with the Legends Night which welcomed David Hinds, Mortimer, Bankie Banx, Benjy Myaz, Junior Jazz, Tony Ruption, and Orange Grove.
The final event on 8 March was a daytime beach party with performances from Mishka, the Moonsplash All Stars, Dennis Warrington and Island Pulse.
Watch highlights from the festival below, courtesy of Anguilla Beaches:
