The 2025 Lake Tahoe Winter Reggae Festival, presented by Good Vibez Presents, is set to bring an unforgettable weekend of music, culture, and community to the Tahoe Blue Event Center. Scheduled for February 15 and 16, this two-day event features a carefully curated lineup of reggae legends, contemporary stars, and rising talent. With the stunning Sierra Nevada as the backdrop, the festival promises to be a highlight of the winter season for reggae enthusiasts, snowboarders, and skiers alike. Fans can look forward to an immersive experience filled with great music, positive vibes, and breathtaking scenery.
Saturday, Feb. 15: A Fusion of Reggae and Rock
Pipe Down
Opening Saturday’s action is one of Lake Tahoe’s own. Pipe Down brings a chill, groove-driven California reggae vibe crafted from a fusion of global talent, passion, and unique experiences. Founded during the global pandemic in the spring of 2021 on the stunning north shore of Lake Tahoe, this band stands out with a signature sound that blends reggae, indie rock, and hip hop. Known for their high-energy shows and unforgettable live performances, Pipe Down has quickly become a dominant force in the local music scene, leaving fans buzzing with their dynamic stage presence and genre-defying sound.
Fortunate Youth
Fortunate Youth has risen to become one of the most recognized reggae-rock bands in the country. Since 2009, the Hermosa Beach-based band, led by the soulful vocals of Dan Kelly, has been delivering reggae infused with a powerful message of positivity, love, and unity. Tracks like “Sweet Love” and “Pass the Herb” showcase Kelly’s emotive performances and the band’s dedication to spreading good vibes through their music.
Known for electrifying live performances and a constantly evolving catalog of original songs, Fortunate Youth draws influences from blues, ska, rock, world, soul, and punk. Their genre-defying sound and uplifting mission make them stand out in the reggae scene, captivating fans nationwide. Whether playing small venues or headlining festivals, Fortunate Youth’s music remains a celebration of peace, love, and unity—making them the perfect addition to any lineup.
Rome Ramirez
Rome Ramirez, best known as the frontman for Sublime with Rome, will also take the stage on Saturday. Born in Fremont, Calif., Ramirez joined Sublime’s revival in 2009, but his solo career showcases a unique sound blending reggae, pop, and acoustic influences. Expect an intimate and soulful set filled with both originals and fan favorites.
Iration
Bringing laid-back island vibes to the mainland, Iration was formed in 2004 by a group of friends from Hawaii who relocated to Santa Barbara, California. Fronted by Micah Pueschel, known as Poosh, the band quickly became a driving force in the modern reggae scene. Known for their signature sound that blends reggae, rock, and pop influences, Iration has crafted anthems like “Timebomb,” “Falling,” and “Reelin’,” which have helped solidify their place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Iration’s energetic live shows and relatable lyrics have built them a loyal following. Their ability to merge traditional reggae with contemporary rock and pop elements has made them a staple in both reggae and alternative music circles. Over the years, the band has released several critically acclaimed albums, such as Hotting Up (2015) and Coastin’ (2020), showcasing their growth as musicians and commitment to creating feel-good, soul-nourishing music.
With a reputation for blending catchy hooks with positive messages, Iration’s sound continues to resonate with audiences across the globe. Whether performing on large festival stages or in intimate venues, their infectious energy and unforgettable songs keep fans coming back for more, making them one of the most celebrated reggae bands in the contemporary music scene.
Dirty Heads
Dirty Heads will headline Saturday at the Lake Tahoe Reggae Festival, bringing their signature blend of reggae, rock, and hip-hop influences to the stage.
Since forming in 2001, the band, led by frontman Jared Watson (“Dirty J”), has crafted a unique sound that fully embodies its Southern California roots while resonating with audiences worldwide. Known for its catchy, feel-good anthems and high-energy performances, Dirty Heads has become one of the biggest alternative acts in the U.S.
With over 1.31 million digital track sales and an impressive 2.7 billion on-demand streams since 2018, their music continues to captivate fans across the globe. Hits like “Lay Me Down,” “Vacation,” and “Spread Too Thin” have solidified their reputation in the reggae-rock scene, making them the perfect headliners for an unforgettable night of music and good vibes at the Lake Tahoe Reggae Festival.
Sunday, Feb. 16: Legends and Modern Icons
Lizano
Lizano, a Central Coast-based reggae band with a soulful sound, is starting Sunday’s festivities.
Lizano’s self-described style of “Galactic Reggae and Funk Fusion” perfectly encapsulates their ability to blend genres into something both familiar and otherworldly. Their music takes reggae’s laid-back grooves and infuses it with funk’s energetic brass and rhythm while layering in psychedelic and experimental sounds that give it a cosmic edge.
The fusion style is dynamic and unpredictable, weaving elements of ska, punk, and rock into the mix, ensuring their performances are always fresh and engaging. Whether it’s a spaced-out guitar riff, an infectious trumpet melody, or driving percussion, Lizano’s music is built to make audiences move while feeling like they’ve taken a sonic journey through the stars.
The Expendables
The Expendables are an American reggae rock band from Santa Cruz, California, known for their dynamic fusion of reggae, punk rock, ska, and surf rock. Formed in 1997, the band comprises Geoff Weers (guitar and vocals), Adam Patterson (drums and vocals), Raul Bianchi (lead guitar), and Ryan DeMars (bass).
Their music is characterized by laid-back reggae rhythms, energetic punk rock tempos, and 1980s-style dueling guitar solos, reflecting their California beach lifestyle. This unique sound has garnered them a dedicated fan base and opportunities to tour extensively, sharing stages with acts like 311, Pepper, Slightly Stoopid, and Reel Big Fish.
Common Kings
The Orange County-based Common Kings will bring their signature reggae, R&B, and pop blend to the Tahoe stage. Since their formation in 2011, lead singer Sasualei “Jr King” Maliga and the band have captivated audiences with hits like “Wade in Your Water” and “Alcoholic.” Their dynamic performances and genre-crossing sound are sure to get the crowd moving.
Their music blends catchy beats with the members’ love of reggae, rock, R&B, and island music, resulting in a style that appeals to a broad audience.
The band’s instrumentation typically features smooth bass lines, rhythmic guitar strumming, and melodic keyboard riffs, all layered over steady drum beats. This combination results in a soothing and energizing sound, appealing to a wide audience.
Lyrically, Common Kings often address themes of positivity, personal growth, and social consciousness, resonating with listeners seeking both musical enjoyment and meaningful messages. Their ability to craft catchy and thought-provoking songs has solidified their place in the reggae rock genre.
Steel Pulse
Few reggae bands carry the legacy of Steel Pulse, formed in Birmingham, England, in 1975.
Steel Pulse’s music is deeply rooted in reggae, but the band is also known for blending various other influences, such as funk, jazz, rock, and dub, creating a unique sound that resonates globally.
Throughout their career, Steel Pulse has been known for their politically charged lyrics and commitment to social justice. They have released multiple albums and continue to tour internationally, maintaining their status as one of the most influential reggae bands.
Rebelution
Headlining Sunday is Rebelution, one of the most influential reggae bands in the world today. Formed in 2004 in Isla Vista, Calif., Rebelution is led by vocalist and guitarist Eric Rachmany. The band’s socially conscious lyrics and melodic sound have earned them a devoted following, with iconic tracks like “Safe and Sound” and “Count Me In”
They are known for their uplifting and melodic sound. Their music blends traditional reggae rhythms with rock, pop, and soul elements, creating a laid-back yet dynamic vibe. The band’s instrumentation typically features smooth bass lines, rhythmic guitar strumming, and melodic keyboard riffs, all layered over steady drum beats. This combination results in a soothing and energizing sound, appealing to a wide audience.
Rebelution has maintained a consistent style throughout its discography while exploring new musical territories. This evolution reflects the band’s willingness to experiment and grow, keeping their sound fresh and engaging.
Lyrically, Rebelution often addresses positivity, personal growth, and social consciousness themes, resonating with listeners seeking musical enjoyment and meaningful messages. Their ability to craft catchy and thought-provoking songs has solidified their place in the reggae rock genre.
Beyond the Music
The Tahoe Blue Event Center offers an intimate yet state-of-the-art venue, perfect for enjoying apres-ski and live music in Lake Tahoe’s winter setting. Festival-goers can enjoy indoor and outdoor spaces, with easy access to world-class skiing and snowboarding just minutes away.
Doors open at 3 p.m. each day, and music begins at 4 p.m. Weekend and single-day tickets are available, but the festival is expected to sell out quickly.
