Rebel Salute 2026 Jamaica Edition Cancelled Due to Hurricane Melissa — Organisers Issue Official Statement

Rebel Salute, one of Jamaica’s most premier reggae festivals, will not be staged on the island in 2026, as organisers confirm that the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa has made it impossible to responsibly deliver the event at its usual standard. The announcement, issued on December 24, 2025, cites major disruptions to logistics, planning, and overall operational readiness — factors critical to the production of Rebel Salute’s scale and cultural importance.

In a heartfelt notice, the organisers emphasised that the decision was not taken lightly. Hurricane Melissa significantly affected infrastructure and timelines, particularly in the western parishes, which form a core part of the festival’s audience and support network. With limited time to regroup, organisers concluded that proceeding would compromise the quality, safety, and integrity that patrons, artistes, vendors, and partners have come to expect from what many call “The People’s Show”.

“Rebel Salute is more than a music festival,” the statement reads, describing the event as a sacred cultural space rooted in Jamaican consciousness, community, and conscious music. Guided by principles of excellence and respect, the team chose to pause rather than risk eroding the trust built over decades with its loyal supporters. The organisers also acknowledged the ripple effect of the decision, recognising the livelihoods of vendors, the creative platform it provides for artistes, and the dedication of staff and sponsors who sustain the festival ecosystem.

However, the Rebel Salute brand remains firmly alive on the global stage. Rebel Salute USA has been officially confirmed for April 18, 2026, in Florida, reaffirming the festival’s commitment to its international audience and the preservation of reggae culture worldwide. While Jamaican fans will feel the absence in 2026, organisers maintain that safeguarding the long-term legacy of Rebel Salute is the most responsible path forward — with eyes firmly set on returning stronger when the time is right.