Since opening late last year, Packy Malley’s Ballroom has become an epicenter for all things reggae. On Saturday, Feb. 6, the club will host Winter Reggae Fest, which takes place on what would have been reggae icon Bob Marley’s 71st birthday.

Cleveland’s I-TAL and Southwest Florida’s SOWFLO headline the event. Debuting way back in 1978, I-Tal lays claim to being one of the very first reggae bands in the United States. A modern rock/reggae band that’s fast becoming a national act, SOWFLO draws its influence from bands like Sublime.

The event will also feature Jamaican food, art and crafts, and Bob Marley movies. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 on the day of the show. Doors open at 8 p.m. A free Reggae Party Bus will debut the night of the reggae fest; the bus will make the rounds between three bars – the ABC on West 25th St., the Ontario Lounge on Public Square and Packy Malley’s. 

This article appears in Jan 20-26, 2016.

Jeff has been covering the Cleveland music scene for more than 25 years now. On a regular basis, he tries to talk to whatever big acts are coming through town. And if you're in a local band that he needs to hear, email him at jniesel@clevescene.com.